“Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in your life.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson
As the days get shorter towards the Winter Solstice, we all await that moment when the spirit of Christmas fills our hearts. Sometimes we wonder if it will ever arrive. If it does not accompany the music, now starting at Halloween, or the decorating, now beginning on Thanksgiving before half-time, then when?
Beautiful jewel tree
Poinsettias in Exhibition Hall of the Main Conservatory
Yet it does arrive – sometimes inconceivably, improbably, and often unexpectedly, through a kind act, a heartfelt note on a Christmas card, or a loved one’s laughter. These small things can flip the Christmas switch, bringing that warm, glowing, holiday feeling. Grand gestures aren’t too grand to bring the magic either. Someone conjuring up a big Christmas surprise is as joyful as a starry sleigh ride with Santa.
“A Longwood Christmas” has both the small and grand gestures – the unseen hours of dedication bring the splendor. A literal switch may light up the Longwood night, but the gift of beauty brings the feeling. Look around while visiting. There are smiles everywhere, reflecting spirits lifted by the magic of nature meeting art.
Amaryllis
Words fail when walking into the Main Conservatory with its splendid floral Christmas trees, now mirrored by those in the incredible new West Conservatory.
Splendid fountain greeting at the Main Conservatory entrance
Beautiful camellias were in bloom
Don’t miss the exquisite Orchid House, the original vision of founder Pierre Samuel du Pont and his wife Alice, in the Main Conservatory near the exit to the Waterlily Court, Cascade Garden, and West Conservatory.
Waterlily Court
The Longwood holiday tradition, which has delighted its Kennett Square neighbors and world travelers, was a gift from Pierre du Pont. In 1906, Pierre saved Peirce’s Park, a former family farm beloved by locals that featured two beautiful allées of trees, which visitors to Longwood Gardens can still enjoy today. Inspired by his travels to gardens in France, Italy, and England, and visits to great exhibitions, Pierre gradually created beautiful gardens on the grounds. Pierre was a generous philanthropist who paid for the construction of nearly half of the public schools in Delaware at the time. Du Pont cousins Henry and Alfred, donated the incredible Winterthur Museum, Garden, & Library, magnificent year-round and especially during the holidays, and the Nemours Estate, in Wilmington, also festive at holiday time. These generous gifts are gems of the scenic Brandywine Valley.
Christmas trees amidst the Steinway piano and organ console in the Ballroom celebrate the accomplishments and creativity of local arts organizations:
Handmade felt ornaments
Stunning floral trees and blooms in the West Conservatory:
What’s wonderful about Longwood Gardens, and bears repeating at Christmas, is that generations of family members can visit together. “A Longwood Christmas” will delight everyone – couples, families, and solo travelers who won’t feel alone with a cup of warm cocoa on a merrily lit winter night. Thank you, as always, to the dedicated staff.
Snapdragon charm
Magnificent trees in the Music Room:
Enjoy “Winter Wonder,” which began January 16th and spring ahead with “Longwood Gardens: Spring Symphony”. Save the date for “A Longwood Christmas,” starting on November 21st.
(Sources: longwoodgardens.org, mainlinetoday.com, Wiki)
“A Golden New Year at Longwood Gardens” All Rights Reserved ©2026 Kathleen Helen Levey
As this year’s Happy Holiday thank you, enjoy a favorite gift for friends, Norwegian Sugar Cookies. Almond extract works well as a substitute for alcohol, though Grand Mariner adds a light and sweet flavor. A variety of holiday cookie cutters make for fun, but you will have your own spin on this recipe. The caraway seeds are part of the traditional recipe, though I make them without those. This is a festive gift that everyone enjoys.
