CLICK FOR DIRECTIONS

Expanding community connections to Mediterranean regions through experience, education, and conservation.

Nature Lights

 

  • 8+ acres of Festive Light Displays

  • Live music on 2 stages each night

  • Local chef pop-ups

  • Holiday Market (select dates only)

  • 5pm – 8pm

Don’t miss Nature Lights 2025 opening November 26 at the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden!  With new light exhibits, music on two stages, food vendors, an artist marketplace, and even a few visits from Santa…it is a wonderful, immersive evening for the whole family. 

14 nights ONLY

Don’t miss SLO’s newest holiday tradition – plan your visit today!


Buy today – holiday weeks will sell out!

Adult $28 / Youth $18 / 5 & under Free
Members save 20% on all tickets with code MEMBER20.

FAQ

If I'm visiting the Garden during the day, can't I just stay for Nature Lights?

No, Nature Lights is a separate, ticketed after-hours event. The Garden closes at 3:00 PM on Nature Lights days and visitors will be cleared off the grounds. The gate will re-open at 5:00 PM for the event.

Are you open if it is raining?

Usually!  Unless there is heavy wind and/or rain, we will be open!  If you have purchased tickets online, you will receive an email in the event of cancellation.

Can I change the date of my visit?

Yes. If you have a change of plans or get rained out, you can change your ticket to another night assuming we are not sold out.  Please email dana@slobg.org.

Will there be food and beverages available for purchase?

Yes.  We have beer, wine, water, soft drinks, cocoa, and snacks available for purchase every night.

On most nights we’ll also have specialty chefs and food trucks. Check the schedule to see what’s cooking!

Performance Schedule
DateMain StageAcorn Stage
November 26B & The Hive (duo)Toan Chau
November 28B & The Hive (duo)Teddy Oldham
November 29B & The Hive (duo)Aaron Russell
December 5Gary WootenJamie Pennelly
December 6TTK Music
(Cal Poly a cappella)
Gary Wooten
December 12Big SierraKevin Sean
December 13Gary WootenKevin Sean
December 19Joy PolloiKeys & Strings Duo
December 20HakeemJamie Pennelly
December 21Bellisima HandbellsHakeem
December 22Jingle BellesBellisima Handbells
December 23Jingle BellesHakeem
December 26Nataly LolaKeilo Smith
December 27Nataly LolaKeilo Smith

*all performances subject to change

Schedule of Food Vendors 2025

 

November 26Sichuan Kitchen SLO
November 28Sichuan Kitchen SLO
November 29Sichuan Kitchen SLO
December 5Carolyn’s Kitchen
December 6Marcerro
December 12Carolyn’s Kitchen
December 13Marcerro
December 19Sichuan Kitchen SLO
December 20Sichuan Kitchen SLO
December 21Sichuan Kitchen SLO
December 22Sichuan Kitchen SLO
December 23Sichuan Kitchen SLO
December 26Sichuan Kitchen SLO
December 287Marcerro

 *chefs subject to change

 

Artists' Market

On select dates we’ll have a markeplace of artists in our Pavillion — just in time for holiday shopping!  Our gift shop and nursery will be open every evening. 
STAY TUNED FOR MORE DETAILS!

November 26, 28, 29
December 19, 20, 21, 22, 23

Do you offer group discounts?

Yes! If you have a group of 12+ or would like to offer a discount to your company, social club, or non-profit organization please contact dana@slobg.org or call 805.541.1400 x303

Can I have my holiday party at the Garden?

Yes!  Holiday parties are better under the lights!  Rentals are available for events of all sizes, both on nights where Nature Nights is open to the public and on other nights if you prefer a private event.  Please contact Mia at mia@slobg.org or at 805.541.1400.

Are dogs welcome?

Yes! Dogs on leash are welcome at Nature Lights.

Is Nature Lights wheelchair/mobility aid friendly?

Yes, for the most part, you can access all of Nature Lights if you use a wheelchair or other mobility aid.  Some exhibits require a few stairs to access, but can be viewed from the main path. Be aware, Nature Lights is outdoors and at night, and paths are gravelled and can be uneven. 

There is handicapped parking located in the Mariposa parking lot and accessible restrooms.

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.