On Tuesday, Sept. 8, festive season fans can start to purchase tickets and plan their fall and winter activities, starting with Maine’s favorite: Gardens Aglow. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens invites guests to “Gather, Glow, and Celebrate” with this year’s “Gathered in Maine” theme.

Running from Nov. 14, 2026, to Jan. 2, 2027, guests can expect a glowing journey through Maine traditions, sparkling landscapes, and natural connections that bring us together. New lighted elements feature a maple tapping scene, a landscape fit for mushroom foraging, and even a cohort of seed-dispersing ants.

With price-conscious guests in mind, this year there will be three pricing tiers: Family Value on weekdays, Standard on Friday and Sunday, and Premium on Saturdays, allowing guests to pick the night and price that works for them. An additional VIP add-on pass unlocks special Gardens Aglow gifts, unlimited ticket exchanges, the ability to arrive anytime within open hours on your selected date, and a cozy fire pit experience.

“Every year, we hear that we are their family’s annual winter tradition. “Gathered in Maine” is an homage to those families, and to the ways humans, and our fauna counterparts, gather at this feasting time of year,” states Gretchen Ostherr, president and CEO of Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. “With new pricing tiers, we hope that everyone can find a night that allows them to enjoy being together at their Maine Gardens.”

Several local artists will once again provide contributions to the lightshow, including Portland-based PORTL&, visual artist Hannah Holt, and cellist and composer Robin Lane. A curated exhibition inspired by the spirit of gathering will be featured in the Cafe and is included with admission to Gardens Aglow.

Ticket prices start at $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and veterans, and $10 for children ages 3-17. Children under the age of 3 are free. Members save 20% on all Gardens Aglow admission tickets and can purchase tickets a week before the general public. VIP add-on passes are $50 per ticket and are not subject to any discounts. For more information on pricing and time slots, visit GardensAglow.org.

Extend your stay and enjoy all that the region offers with Boothbay Lights. A convenient complimentary Park and Ride shuttle runs Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from Boothbay Harbor Town Office, allowing guests to experience Boothbay Harbor's shopping, dining, and lodging delights before and after the light show. For a complete calendar of regional offerings, the robust slate of Boothbay Lights events, and Park and Ride details, visit www.boothbaylights.com.

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens thanks L.L.Bean for their generous support of Gardens Aglow. For those interested in sponsoring Gardens Aglow in 2026, inquiries should be directed to Betsy Hills, Annual Fund & Membership manager, at BHills@mainegardens.org or 207-633-8013.

Learn more at www.mainegardens.org.