Blossom of Lights

Returning to Monk Botanical Gardens for a third year, Blossom of Lights promises a more charming and captivating experience than ever before.

Discover nature in a whole new light at Wausau’s only walking light show running from September 18 to October 26. Join the fall festivities Wednesdays through Saturdays from 6:30 to 8:30 pm; step into a world of enchantment, immerse yourself in the beauty, and experience Nature. Illuminated. 

Wind through alluring garden pathways gracing ten acres. See plants and structures transformed by light in a way that only debuts once a year. New features in 2024 include a longer trail, allowing for more memorable minutes with friends and family, and interactive elements sure to bring joy to those young and older.

Enter the Gardens’ gates, and you will be on your way to exploring and immersing in a grand spectacle of lights sure to delight the eyes and spirit. Thoughtfully designed displays will treat your senses to both the serene and the lively. Stop in our cozy red yurt at the beginning or end of your journey to purchase hot drinks and Blossom of Lights merchandise. Personalize your visit by buying a daisy glow wand loved by all ages or even a glow bracelet or scrunchie for your dog on Pet Night (October 2).

Several theme nights are scheduled as part of the Blossom of Lights fun:  Sip & Stroll (21+ and special ticket required; plan accordingly), Music Nights, Pet Night, Sensory-Friendly Night, Kids’ Night Out, S’More Fun, or Trick or Treating. The Sip & Stroll Night on September 21 is the only night requiring a special ticket. A limited number of these tickets will be sold, so make sure to purchase them in advance if you are interested.

Amidst the cheerfulness of the lights, glowing trinkets, and theme nights, don’t forget to vote for your favorite scarecrow! Scarecrows on Parade runs during the first three weeks of Blossom of Lights, September 18-October 5. Be sure to visit one of these dates to see the Kitchen Garden filled with our harvest friends created by local individuals, families, businesses, and organizations. Scan one of the nearby QR codes with your mobile device to vote for who you think should win the coveted People’s Choice Award. Learn more about the contest at BlossomofLights.org.

Blossom of Lights tickets this year include separate pricing for adults and children. They can be purchased online for convenient day-of entry or in person at the event. Ticket and all other event details can be found online at BlossomofLights.org. If you have any questions, contact Monk Botanical Gardens at info@monkgardens.org or (715) 261-6309.

Support for this event is provided by Hsu Growing Supply, Travel Wisconsin, City of Wausau, Village of Rib Mountain, WSAW Channel 7, Midwest Communications, CoVantage Credit Union, J.H. Findorff & Son, Inc., ReVi Design, Village of Rothschild, 3M, BAIRD/Chris Schliepp, Peoples State Bank, Ruder Ware, Traditions Lighting LLC, and Wausau Tile.

About the Monk Botanical Gardens

Monk Botanical Gardens’ mission is to cultivate well-being in people, communities, and the environment with experiences that engage, educate, and inspire.  Wausau’s Happy Place serves over 11,000 community members through its educational programs and over 64,000 visitors yearly. The Gardens is a place for education, reflection, and rejuvenation. The Gardens is the only organization providing public environmental education services within Wausau. Creating a personal connection to the natural world sets the stage for lifelong learning, healthy living, and a genuine commitment to conservation. Monk Botanical Gardens is located at 1800 N 1st Ave, Wausau, WI, and is a 501c3 non-profit organization supported by donations, memberships, and private foundations. For more information, go to monkgardens.org.