As with most people, I have many traditions this time of year.
I put my tackiest, vintage decorations on the tree. Like poor Rudolph with one eye and the little Snoopy I made in kindergarten.
I watch “The Ref” and many Shane Black movies.
And of course I always leave a martini under the tree for Santa.
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I went to Galaxy of Lights the first time in 2006 on the suggestion of my Traveling Companion. It’s been a tradition ever since.
The Galaxy of Lights is at Huntsville Botanical Garden. It’s a 2 mile drive-through (or walk-through) light display.
The lights are preeeeety.
Some are Christmas or Chanukah related; others are based on nursery rhymes, or really random like a T-Rex.
There are the 12 Days of Christmas and lots of Santa adventures, but if you want a lovely romantic setting, I’d go for the beautiful lighted tunnel. It even has fake snow, because this is Alabama, and if there was actual real snow on the ground the Botanical Gardens would be closed as well as most of the roads leading to it.
I generally prefer the walk-through, but unfortunately you’ll have to wait a year for that since they’re only in November before Thanksgiving and that’s pretty much passed. Now it’s drive-through time. But a note on the walk-through, kids can visit Santa, and adults can get spirited coffee (with Bailey’s or Kahlua), which is better than Santa since you don’t have to wait a month for delivery.
There are a couple of dog friendly walk-throughs in November as well. I haven’t been but I bet they’re adorable. It’s better I don’t go. I’d spend 5 hours asking who’s a good boy. Spoiler: they’re all good.
Galaxy of Lights Driving Nights
Okay, now the driving info. You’re paying per carload so now is the time to make friends and squeeze them in the car like you’re clowns at the circus or sneaking friends into the drive-in theater.
It’s $20 or $25 per car, depending on what day it is. Or you can buy early and pay $20. If you have a military ID, you get a discount on Mondays. You can also get a $1 discount if you donate canned food, coats, dog/cat food, paper products, or toys.
Each display is sponsored by a different person or company, so if you want some holiday advertising, contact the Botanical Gardens.
It was much fun to do and a great way to kick off the season.
Just make sure you block off a good chunk of the evening. It starts at 5:30 pm (ends at 9:00 pm), but there will be a long line to get in, and the drive will be slow. So patience patience patience.
Happy Holidays Everyone!
May Santa bring you lots of goodies!
Don’t forget to leave him a martini!
More Information: Galaxy of Lights
Where: Huntsville Botanical Garden
When: Now through December 31
What Time: 5:30 – 9:00 pm
How Much: $25/car (up to 10 people, $3 for each additional person
Guest blogger for We Are Huntsville. Are you interested in writing a post for our site? Email katelyn@wearehuntsville.com.
