BELMONT – Holidays at the Garden, opening Nov. 17, is Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s holiday event that glows with holiday spirit from the twinkling trees to the sparkling fountains a with festive décor including a towering tree of orchids, more than 600,000 lights, and illuminated displays.

Each night visitors will enjoy live music, holiday shopping in The Garden Store, crackling fires to warm cold hands or roast a marshmallow, and the Children’s Holiday Discovery Trail of activities. Model train displays created by the Metrolina Model Railroaders can be found throughout the garden.

Horse-drawn carriage rides will be available from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday through Dec. 31 and also Dec. 18-20. Rides are $6/adult, $4/child 2-12, and free for children under 2. The Garden Tram will be available on evenings when the carriages are not; rides are free with admission from 6 to 9 p.m.

Mrs. Claus will visit from 6 to 8 p.m. on Nov. 27-29, Dec. 4-6, 11-13 and 18-24. Santa will only be available during Capture the Magic with Santa from 6 to 9 p.m. Nov. 24-26, Nov. 30-Dec. 3, Dec. 7-10, 14-17; pre-registration and the purchase of a professional photo package and Holidays at the Garden admission are required.

Packages start at $45, Visits available between 6 to 9 p.m.

Food service will be available every evening.

Holidays at the Garden will be open Nov. 17 through Dec. 31 from 5 to 9 p.m. each evening, although it will be closed Christmas Day. The garden will be open for regular daytime admission 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the exception of Thanksgiving when it’s only open for Holidays at the Garden in the evening.

Holiday admission is discounted for tickets purchased online in advance at $12.95 per adult, $11.95 per senior 60+, $7.95 per child 2-12 and free for children under age 2. Tickets at the door are $14.95 per adult, $13.95 per senior 60+, $8.95 per child 2-12 and free for children under age 2. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance at www.dsbg.org or 704-829-1252.

Visitors can also register for special events throughout the holiday season during Holidays at the Garden. Advance reservations are required and can be made online at www.DSBG.org or by calling 704-829-1252. Special events include:

Capture a magical memory with professional photos of your children or family. Please note, personal photography will not be permitted with Santa this year. No discounts apply to photo packages. Holidays at the Garden admission is also required.

• Tea Tasting on Sunday, Dec. 3; Seatings at 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.; $30/guest

Celebrate the holiday season with a variety of teas paired with scrumptious snacks while learning more about each type of tea. Advance reservations are required at www.DSBG.org or by calling (704) 829-1252.

• Wine Pairing on Sunday, Dec. 10; 3-5 p.m. $65/guest (admission to Holidays at the Garden included)

A local wine expert will present an array of wines that will pair with delicious small bites from a local restaurant. You’re sure to enjoy this afternoon of delectable wine, food and great company. Advance reservations are required and can be made online at www.DSBG.org or by calling 704-829-1252.