Experience the magic of the season at Las Noches de las Luminarias, where 15 living plant displays transform Desert Botanical Garden into a breathtaking desert dreamscape.
Beginning Nov. 28, the Garden is aglow for 19 enchanting nights, illuminated by 8,000 luminarias and sparkling lights.
This year’s displays draw inspiration from the Garden’s current exhibition, FRAMERATE: Desert Pulse, embracing its themes of conservation, technology and transformation. The design blends grounded, earthy tones with shimmering silver accents—a visual nod to photography and the desert’s natural beauty.
Throughout the trails, guests will discover living totems and holiday plant arrangements crafted from sustainably Garden-sourced materials like dried aloe stalks, saguaro ribs and cholla skeletons. A silver garden palette featuring white Princettia, angel wings and unique Mangaves brings a frosty glow to the warm desert night.
Visitors will be welcomed by a lush, twinkling tree adorned with dried desert accents and succulents, while living chandeliers made from foraged plants and woven lanterns pulse with life in the Ottosen Entry Garden. Throughout the Garden, wreaths and garlands shimmer with earthy textures, graphic black-and-white ornaments and cascades of wine-colored Amaranthus.
At the Christensen Family Desert Oasis, a frosty tree installation, featuring white Princettia, angel wings, dusty miller, dried palms and juniper, will add a serene winter feel. Along the trails, vertical plant displays, glowing totems and saguaro skeletons rise as part of the Garden’s Desert Dreamscape vignettes. The Center for Desert Living Trail will feature a stunning mandala wreath, transforming the sundial into a radiant centerpiece.
Don’t miss your chance to stroll through this magical holiday experience. Purchase your tickets early for Las Noches de las Luminarias, and capture the moment with a complimentary festive photo with Sonoran Santa and Mrs. Claus, available every evening of Luminaria.
