Lights. Laughter. Memories.
If you’re wondering how you’re going to make this festive season extra special, then look no further than the annual Durban Botanic Gardens’ Trail of Lights from 14 to 30 December. Now in its second year, Africa’s oldest botanic gardens will be lit up with thousands of lights, loads of outdoor fun and festive activity.
Here’s what to expect….
Following on from last year’s glittering success, the Durban Botanic Gardens Trust and event organisers have extended this fun-filled event to two weeks over the festive season, incorporating an even larger portion of the gardens.
Event organiser Alene Naidoo says, “The good news for everyone celebrating the Festive Season in Durban is the chance to experience the gardens illuminated at night… a rare and special experience.” In addition to the trail which will feature magical Christmas characters, a talking tree and the Remembrance Tree of Light, there will be live music brought to you by some of Durban’s best local talent every night, between 7.30pm and 8.30pm. A food garden with local vendors offering a range of food options will have something to suit every taste bud. Event-goers are reminded that no food or drinks will be permitted into the gardens.
The Trail of Lights is a non-commercial Christmas event and gives members of the public an opportunity ‘to give something back’ during the season of giving, in a safe and secure environment. Support the worthwhile work being done by KZN-based charities by visiting the kids’ activity garden with pop-up stalls, cupcake decorating and other education stations.
This year’s charities include CROW, Feeding the Furballs, Cupcakes of Hope and TAFTA. Alene adds, “Santa’s grotto presented by CROW will have a very unusual, not-to-be-missed South African-style sleigh.”
The Trail of Lights is the Durban Botanic Gardens’ biggest annual fundraiser and proceeds go towards the upkeep and preservation of the gardens for visitors and future generations to enjoy.
“We look forward to seeing everyone there to make some special family memories, give back to the gardens and charities involved and teach our kids what the real spirit of Christmas is all about,” concludes Alene.
Ticket prices and online booking details:
- R50 per ticket if booked online or at your local Pick n Pay Store, children under two go free
- You can buy tickets at www.webtickets.co.za or at Pick ‘n Pay (see booking link below)
- Limited tickets will be available each night at the door at R70 per ticket.