A new experience will brighten nights at Maymont this fall as the Japanese Garden becomes an illuminated landscape for Garden Glow, held nightly from Saturday, October 27 to Sunday, November 11, 6 to 10 p.m.
During the peak of fall colors, families, couples and nature lovers of all ages can admire colorful sparkles and shimmers within the cascading waterfall, stroll among towering trees that stand aglow, and marvel at the breathtaking illuminations of winding waterways, rolling hills, bridges and lanterns. Highlights in the garden also will include two giant lighted sculptures, designed and created by members of Ikebana of Richmond – an organization that supports the art form of Japanese flower arrangement.
“The inspiration for a lighted, nighttime tour at Maymont came from the magnificent garden illuminations I saw on a visit to Japan in 2014,” said Peggy Singlemann, Maymont Director of Park Operations & Horticulture. “Candle-lit lanterns, which originated in China, have been used in Japan for centuries as decorative, spiritual and symbolic elements. The dramatic lighting of natural and decorative features throughout the garden is a much newer phenomenon.”
In addition to the landscape in lights, a schedule of fun Japanese cultural activities, displays and entertainment will be offered at The Robins Nature & Visitor Center where guests arrive for transport to the garden. Attendees can discover more about Japanese customs, past and present, as they participate in interactive projects like fan-making, calligraphy, origami and miniature boat building. Other fantastic sights and sounds will include drumming performances by River City Taiko, live music performed with a koto (a Japanese stringed instrument), calligraphy demonstrations, and other exhibitions. A rotating display of Ikebana floral arrangements will illustrate the appreciation for plants and nature in Japanese culture. Food and beverages also will be available for purchase. Specific schedules of activities and entertainment will vary nightly.
“We are so excited to offer this experience for the delight of our community and all our guests,” said Parke Richeson, Maymont Executive Director. “Surveys year after year show that the Japanese Garden at Maymont is one of Richmond’s favorite gardens, and fall is already a spectacular time to enjoy its brilliant changing colors. With Garden Glow, everyone will be immersed in its unique beauty in a whole new light.”
Garden Glow tickets may be purchased online in advance at a discount: $12 adults / $7 children ages 4-12; free for children ages 3 and under. Maymont members receive a discount online or at the door. Tickets also will be available onsite during the event, depending on availability.
The time on the ticket denotes the time for transportation from The Robins Nature & Visitor Center to the Japanese Garden. Parking for Garden Glow at Maymont is free and will be located at the Robins Nature & Visitor Center at 2201 Shields Lake Drive in Richmond, Virginia. Guests are invited to enjoy the activities, entertainment, displays and refreshments located in the Visitor Center, before or after their self-guided garden experience. Transportation to and from the Japanese Garden will be provided via golf carts, and a wheelchair-friendly van will be available for guests using a mobility device. The event will be held rain or shine, except in the case of severe weather. Guests are encouraged to wear weather-appropriate clothing and footwear suited for walking.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit maymont.org/garden-glow or call 804-358-7166, ext. 310.
