My family had the pleasure of visiting a preview of the Winterlights holiday light display at the Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens last week. What a wonderful way to experience the joy of the holiday season! The display runs from November 26 to January 9, Wednesdays to Sundays, from 4:30 to 8:30 PM. As of today (November 24), tickets are 90% sold out so get tickets today if you plan to visit!
Lit only by the holiday lights, the gardens are beautiful and bright. We especially loved the lawn filled with trees constructed out of lights; there are benches and a long path along two sides of the display so you can take your time and experience it from all angles. The moon was big and bright that night too!
The light tunnels that ran alongside the Stevens-Coolidge House were remarkable. Later in the tour, there's a similar light tunnel, except it spins -- I dare you to not get dizzy walking on the bridge that runs through the spinning tunnel! There are railings; hold on tight, the spinning light tunnel is truly dizzying. If it looks like it will be too much, there's a path around the outside for those who would prefer not to walk through. My family loved the spinning tunnel though and walked through a few times with lots of stumbling and laughing!
The Stevens-Coolidge House is lit up with bright holiday pictures and there's a pretty lit garden right alongside, with spheres of colored lights hanging from the trees, decorated trees, and a fence made of light all around.
The path through the displays is clearly marked with ground lights, and there are direction signs to help guide you through the entire display. Kids will enjoy finding the reindeer statues, with name signs, located throughout the displays.
All of the displays are easily managed by families with little ones; it's possible to walk through the entire Winterlights display at a quick pace in about 20-30 minutes. Take your time though -- find all the reindeer, run through the tunnels, listen to the music, sit and enjoy a snack, watch the changing displays on the house, look for special displays, and check out the gift store. Your family will have a lovely evening full of holiday memories that they will want to revisit every year!
Some logistics: the paths are either gravel, dirt or grass so a jogging stroller or another type with big, sturdy wheels is a good idea. When we were there, there was a little shed with hot cocoa, hot cider and donuts available for purchase. The entire display is outside (except the gift store) so be sure to dress very warmly -- scarves, mittens, hats, thick coats, winter boots, even snow suits -- so that everyone is comfortable. Dogs are not permitted at Winterlights. Restrooms are available.
Winterlights at Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens
153 Chickering Rd
North Andover MA 01845
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