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Dazzling lights can be found at Longwood Gardens and St. Matthew Church

Brianna Hinkleman, Senior Reporter

December 15, 2023

Looking for something fun and festive to do this holiday season? Look no farther because Longwood Gardens and St. Matthew Church have spectacular light displays for all to come and enjoy.

Both places contain dazzling lights and Christmas music that showcase the magic of Christmas and tell the greatest story of all: The Birth of Baby Jesus.

While these places differ in price and location, both are worth the trip. At Longwood Gardens, it is $30 per person for those 18 years or older, $16 for children ages five to 17, and $27 for senior citizens.

Tickets must be purchased for this event weeks in advance because it sells out quickly, and customers have to pick a time slot that is convenient for them. It is located in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, an hour’s drive from John Carroll. Upon arrival at Longwood Gardens, there is a great abundance of parking spots located in a massive lot, so there is room for everyone.

After walking through the main gates, guests are sent into a winter wonderland that is filled with many trees wrapped in lights and Christmas figurines located throughout the area. Guests can then amble through the park for as long as they like to soak in the wonders before them.

At St. Matthew Church, there is no need to buy tickets because it is open to the public and serves as a drive-up and park display. It is located only a short few minutes away from John Carroll.

The display is about 20 minutes long and for this time guests are treated to sparkling lights that dance to music and ends with the manger scene.

Around 15-20 cars are able to fit into the lot to see this display, but it is worth waiting in line for and is usually never very crowded. The best time to go is right after the sun has set, so viewers can be surrounded by only the twinkling lights and let the display take over to reveal the magic of Christmas.

Though both of these places offer different experiences, guests can get the best of both worlds by either being able to walk around and enjoy the lights at their own pace at Longwood Gardens, or a quick, convenient, and enjoyable light show in the warmth of a car at St. Matthew Church.