A Forest of Lights at VINS: A Winter Wonderland in Quechee, Vermont

November 21, 2024 – January 3, 2026

If you’re looking for a reason to embrace the long winter nights, this is it.

Every year, the Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) transforms its forested campus in Quechee into a glowing world of color, sound, and imagination. This is the kind of event that makes you embrace your inner child.

Each year brings new displays and surprises, and somehow, it just keeps getting better.

Experience the Magic of the Forest at Night

Beginning November 21, 2025, VINS invites visitors to experience the forest after dark as thousands of twinkling lights transform the Nature Center’s trails and exhibits.

This year’s expanded lineup includes the Sparkle Dome, Fiery Tower, Dancing Lights Pavilion, and Under the Black Light Sea, each one a stunning blend of light, movement, and cutting-edge creativity.

A Forest of Lights seamlessly blends art, nature, and community at the darkest time of year, and what better way to embrace the long nights than to fill them with light and warmth?

Families, couples, and groups of friends wander the illuminated paths at their own pace, pausing to take photos or simply stand in awe. The combination of twinkling lights against snow-covered trees and crisp mountain air evokes a sense of pure Vermont magic.

When you’ve finished exploring, the glow continues at the campfire area, where you can warm your hands and enjoy hot chocolate, cider, and local snacks available for purchase. It’s a simple yet cozy ritual, and the perfect way to cap off an evening of light-hearted laughter.

Event Details

The Forest Canopy Walk at Forest of Lights

A Forest of Lights runs on select evenings from 4:30 pm to 7 pm, with extended evening hours on certain nights. Admission is $15 for adults, $9 for youth, and free for children under three years old.

The event begins on November 21, 2025, and runs through January 3, 2026, with open nights on:

November 21, 22, 28, 29, and 30
December 4–6, 11–13, 18–23, and 26–31
January 1–3

VINS Members can purchase early-bird tickets starting Tuesday, November 4 at 9 am, while the general public can purchase tickets beginning Tuesday, November 11 at 9 am.

Tickets must be purchased in advance; they’re not available at the door.

Please note that tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.

If the event is canceled due to weather, ticket holders will be notified via text and email, with the option to donate, refund, or transfer their tickets.

Because A Forest of Lights is held outdoors, it’s important to dress for the weather and be prepared for snowy or icy conditions. The event is mostly accessible, but the Tree House section of the Forest Canopy Walk is not wheelchair-friendly.

There’s also no admittance after 6:30 pm, so plan to arrive early and enjoy the full experience.

Plan Your Visit

If you’re visiting from out of town, consider turning your evening at A Forest of Lights into a full Upper Valley getaway.

You can stop at the nearby Quechee Gorge for a daytime walk, explore the shops at Quechee Gorge Village, or grab dinner at a local favorite like the Public House or Simon Pearce Restaurant, where the glassblowing workshop adds another kind of glow to your weekend.

Bundle up, wear good boots, and bring your sense of wonder. A Forest of Lights at VINS is a radiant reminder of the magic that winter in Vermont can bring.

Also Read: How to Spend a Winter Weekend in Woodstock and Quechee