Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Through January 11
Various times

In need of some uplifting light and color during the damp gray days of December?

One of the best places to bask in the glow of the holiday season is at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens‘ Winter Light Garden and Flower Show, on view at the Oakland destination through January 11th.

Stroll through Pittsburgh’s own winter wonderland, which sparkles and shines in an all-new show for the 2014 season. Step into an enchanting world of festive evergreens, bright blooms, glowing illuminated glass and timeless holiday magic.

This year’s Winter Flower Show takes inspiration from “Winter Wonderland,” one of the most beloved and best-known carols in history, which was composed by Pennsylvania native Dick Smith in 1904. Discover how the song’s joyful lyrics are brought to life throughout the Conservatory’s exhibit rooms via artful arrangements of LED lights, decorated fir trees, whimsical props, and plenty of seasonal favorites such as colorful poinsettias, aromatic paperwhites and showy amaryllis.

As you explore, see if you can recognize themes inspired by song’s lyrics such as: “Gone away is the bluebird, here to stay is the new bird,” “In the meadow we can build a snowman” and “Sleigh bells ring, are you listening?” Adding to the festive atmosphere are indoor displays of brilliantly glowing glass.

Head outdoors and into the Discovery Gardens, where the newly expanded Winter Light Garden sparkles with luminous orbs, trees and fountains of light. Also on view there is the Garden Railroad which will transport visitors back in time to the legendary Gold Rush. Amidst the rugged and dramatic landscapes of northern California and Mt. Shasta, visitors will encounter prospectors, water features, interactive buttons and miniature living plants, shrubs and trees.

Phipps’ Winter Flower Show was designed by Terra Design Studios. The Winter Light Garden was designed by Phipps’ exhibit coordinator Jordyn Melino.

For a truly captivating visual experience head to the Winter Light Garden during the evening, from 5 to 11 p.m.

Don’t miss Phipps’ special holiday events, such as Santa Visits, Candlelight Evenings, Family Fun Days and a New Year’s Eve Family Celebration.

View a complete list of hours and events.

Jennifer has worked at the Mattress Factory, Brooklyn Museum of Art and Dahesh Museum of Art and is co-author of Pittsburgh Signs Project: 250 Signs of Western Pennsylvania. She also is co-coordinator of Handmade Arcade. Musically, she is in a band called The Garment District and is a founding member of Brooklyn's The Ladybug Transistor.