Shimmering Solstice Returns to Old Westbury Gardens

Back by popular demand, the second year of the event promises to be bigger and brighter

By Barbara Russo November 16, 2022

Nassau County will be merry and bright with the return of Shimmering Solstice in Old Westbury Gardens, a walk-through, colorful light show opening Friday, Nov. 25.

Back by popular demand, the holiday-themed show in Long Island features magical light displays and brings visitors through beautiful paths in Old Westbury Gardens' Walled Garden, Rose Garden, South Lawn and Allée. The festive event is designed for visitors to enjoy at their own pace.

“This walkthrough lightshow is uniquely designed specifically for Old Westbury Gardens, a beautiful Long Island landmark,” Nancy Costopulos, president and CEO of Old Westbury Gardens, said. “It offers a one-of-a-kind experience which is now becoming a new holiday tradition.”

What to Expect at Shimmering Solstice in Old Westbury Gardens

This is the second year of the event. For 2022, lots more visuals have been added, including:

A re-designed interactive area featuring three new exhibits for visitors of all ages to enjoy
Seasonal music throughout the expanded illuminated event path
A new illuminated water feature on the West Pond

Visitors can also recharge and refresh at the Garden of Appreciation, which will be turned into a warming area with a concession stand offering seasonal snacks and drinks.

Presented by Catholic Health, Shimmering Solstice was custom-designed by Lightswitch, a collective of lighting, media and visual designers.

“Shimmering Solstice was designed to be a celebration of our space,” Maura Brush, director of horticulture at Old Westbury Gardens, said. “The features that define Old Westbury Gardens, such as the formal allees, ponds and statuary, are all illuminated so visitors can view them in a completely different light.”

Tickets are on sale now.

What You Need to Know About Visiting Shimmering Solstice in Old Westbury Gardens

Where is Old Westbury Gardens located?

Old Westbury Gardens is located at 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury, NY.

When is Shimmering Solstice open?

The show is open on the following dates, starting at 5:30pm:

Nov. 25, 26 and 27
Dec. 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 and 31
Jan. 1

How much are tickets?

$34.95; $19.95, children ages 2-13. Seniors pay $26.95 on Sundays.

Is parking available?

Parking is free. Enter the Old Westbury Gardens through the main gate at 71 Old Westbury Rd. (TIP: If you're using your GPS, make sure it takes you to 71 Old Westbury Rd, not Post Road.)

For more information, visit shimmeringsolstice.com, or follow Old Westbury Gardens on Facebook or Instagram.

Main image: Old Westbury Gardens

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Shimmering Solstice Returns to Old Westbury Gardens

What to Expect at Shimmering Solstice in Old Westbury Gardens