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Experience the Magic of Winter Lights at Shelburne Museum

This winter, Shelburne Museum will transform into a mesmerizing wonderland of colorful lights that promises to captivate visitors of all ages.

Stemship Ticonderoga during Winter Lights at Shelburne Museum.
Photo credit: Shelburne Museum

Imagine wandering through snow-dusted pathways illuminated by over 500,000 festive lights as sculptures and historical buildings come alive with mesmerizing displays after dark.

Don’t Miss the Magic: Step into a world of twinkling tunnels, intricate light sculptures, and grand illuminations that turn the museum’s grounds into an unforgettable spectacle.

The 220-foot steamboat Ticonderoga, floating in a sea of light, is among the most impressively illuminated structures, and the magical, otherworldly Beach Woods, with its thousands of cascading firefly-like twinkling lights, will delight visitors of all ages.

Whether walking through campus or on a special drive-around tour, Winter Lights is an experience not to miss and a holiday tradition for locals and visitors.

New this season is an enhanced circus display with whimsical figures inspired by Shelburne’s collection, illuminated under a big top of lights. At the steamboat Ticonderoga, sea creatures modeled after weathervanes in the Museum’s collection will “float” on the water created by a sea of lights.

The Museum’s Sawmill and adjacent Covered Bridge will be illuminated for the first time.


Also Read: 14 Spectacular Events to Celebrate December in Vermont


It’s More Than Just Lights. This year’s Winter Lights will feature interactive experiences and family-friendly activities that embrace the magic of the holiday season — warm refreshments, festive music, and fun photo ops at every turn.

Why Wait? Winter Lights only shine for a limited time, so reserve your tickets in advance for this special event.

2024 Winter Lights Dates and Times:

November 21, 22, 23, 24, 29, 30

December 1, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 

January 1

Online tickets are recommended, but there will be a limited number of walk-up tickets available:

Museum Members: $10

Adults (18+): $15 online, $20 in-person

Youth (3-17): $10 online, $20 in-person

Children (under 3): Free

Get ready for a winter night of wonder. See you at Winter Lights!

Tara Schatz is a freelance writer and the founder and editor-in-chief of Vermont Explored and Back Road Ramblers, an American road trip blog. She is also the co-author of the 3rd edition of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont, released in May 2023, and the author of 100+ Wonderful Ways to Experience Vermont.