Lockerly arboretum lights up the holidays

>> CHRISTMAS SEASON
  • Families can be mesmerized by the candy cane forest.
    Families can be mesmerized by the candy cane forest.
  • Bailey Ballard (left front), associate editor of The Baldwin Bulletin, is joined by Lonnie Howell, Kyle Churchwell, and Ansley Browne in activating the new “Hug a Tree” attraction at Lockerly in Lights.
    Bailey Ballard (left front), associate editor of The Baldwin Bulletin, is joined by Lonnie Howell, Kyle Churchwell, and Ansley Browne in activating the new “Hug a Tree” attraction at Lockerly in Lights.
  • As visitors approach the entrance of Lockerly in Lights, they are greeted by the distant glow of the tunnel of lights.
    As visitors approach the entrance of Lockerly in Lights, they are greeted by the distant glow of the tunnel of lights.

    Lockerly Arboretum in Milledgeville is shining with a wide variety of lights, the scent of popcorn and s’mores, and the “Ho, Ho, Ho” of Santa Claus.

    Returning for its fifth year, Lockerly in Lights offers an hourlong walk with tunnels of lights, shooting stars strung among the trees, a corn field with free popcorn, pictures with Santa, and multiple stops for photos.

    “Everyone enjoys helping out and interacting with visitors,” two women volunteering through Civic Women’s Group said while running the popcorn station last Saturday night beside the corn stalks.

    This year also features a new, special stop titled “Hug a Tree.” Lockerly Arboretum promotes horticulture, nature, and heritage, teaching about the importance of Earth’s nature and the connection between flora and fauna. This special photo-op invites families or singles to approach a tree in the shadow of the dark, offer it a tight hug, and watch it light up in the touch of others around it.

    According to one of the volunteers at the event, the “Hug a Tree” was made by Lockerly Arboretum Executive Director Jennifer Pollard’s husband, Bill Pollard, who also assists throughout the season with the attraction.

    “Lockerly is so special. I started working here last October and I’ve been able to educate so many children, locals, and visitors,” Lockerly educator Katherine Mitchell said while assisting with the s’more station.

    Lockerly in Lights operates every Friday and Saturday night and requires advance tickets purchased online at lockerly.org for designated entry times at 6, 7, or 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 3 to 12, 2 years old and younger get in free.

    A special drive-thru night is available from 6-8 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Tickets are $15 per car, purchased ahead online, or $20 in cash at the gate. In addition, Lockerly in Lights is offering Date Night on Dec. 17 for $100 per couple and “Rein-Dog” Night on Dec. 18 for $20 per dog and two human companions. Both events are from 6-8 p.m., with more details available online.

    For more information on Lockerly in Lights, visit Lockerly Arboretum’s Facebook page or website at lockerly.org.