Shangri La Gardens lighted night strolls evokes holiday spirit

Warm muggy weather doesn't evoke feelings of Christmas, but Shangri La has a way to get into the holiday spirit.

The gardens area of the botanical center is decorated with tens of thousands of lights and is ready for the annual Christmas night strolls. The strolls will be from 6 to 9 p.m. on December 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, and 21. Admittance will end each night at 8:30 p.m.

Visitors will be able to go through tunnels of lights and visit areas covered in brilliant colors. Seasonal decorations are also placed throughout the garden area. The gardens walkway is a circular mile and has benches to rest or to relax and soak in the sights.

Also, dozens of Christmas trees have been set up and decorated using recycled materials. The Christmas trees are decorated by businesses, families, civic clubs, churches, and individuals as part of a contest.

Shangri La is having theme nights this year for visitors, if they choose. December 13-17 will be Ugly Christmas Sweater week to mark National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day on December 16. People are invited to wear their tacky holiday sweaters, or T-shirts if the weather is too warm for sweaters.

Then on December 20-21 the gardens will have Crazy Christmas Hat days. Everything from Santa caps to Rudolph antlers is acceptable.

Shangri La Christmas strolls are free, but people are asked to bring a donation of non-perishable food to give to Orange Christian Services.

Free State Winery of Orange will set up in the gardens to sell seasonal beverages and the Orange Lions Club will sell hot chocolate and sweet treats.