Holiday wonder returns to The Gardens

There was just enough chill in the air to feel the holiday season coming on as The Southern Lights held premiere night at The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina in Willard on Saturday evening. Children and adults alike could be heard echoing a chorus of “Wow” as they approached the event entrance.

The Gardens, also known as Johnson Nursery, is a non-profit organization led by David Johnson. He told Duplin Journal that the idea for the light show came from board member Karen Root about four years ago. Johnson said Root suggested that a light display would be an excellent way for the nonprofit to raise funds, especially given the ample land available to host it.

“With her advice, we started three years ago and we’ve built upon it every year since then,” Johnson said.

At the show visitors were treated to a walk-through of an amazing series of lighted displays and sights. Scattered through the lights are benches with inviting fire pits, an “A-Maze-ing Maze,” and even a pit for a little snowball fight fun using foam “snowballs.” A popular part of the event is an Elf Quest Wagon Ride that takes participants on a tour through lighted garden trails, complete with music and special attractions around every bend.

In addition to the incredible visual displays, there are stops where you can enjoy treats, including pizza, popcorn, soup and s’mores, as well as beverages ranging from eggnog and apple cider to coffee, teas and hot cocoa.

The Southern Lights Holiday Light Show will continue Nov. 21-22, Nov. 28-29, Dec. 4-6, Dec. 10-13, Dec. 15, Dec. 18-20, and Dec. 22-23. Hours are 5:30 to 9 p.m.

Tickets are $12. Children five and under are free. Tickets can be purchased online at johnson-nursery.com by clicking the events tab, or they are available at the entrance.

The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina is located at 985 Johnson Nursery Road in Willard and is owned by David Johnson and family.