A Brookside Gardens tradition is feeling the impact of COVID-19 following Montgomery Parks’ decision to cancel the 2020 Garden of Lights exhibit.
In a press release Friday, Brookside Gardens Director Stephanie Oberle said they decided to cancel the event after careful consideration. “The decision was based on many factors, including an overarching concern for the health and safety of our visitors, volunteers, and staff.”
With much regret, we are canceling Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens, Montgomery Parks this year. The decision came after considerations about the health and safety of visitors, staff, and volunteers.
Learn more: https://t.co/zNkvrxHMJB. pic.twitter.com/I4AIqBUdB5
— Montgomery Parks (@MontgomeryParks) September 24, 2020
The Washington, Virginia, and Maryland Garden Railway Society who normally runs the G-scale train exhibit at the Brookside Gardens Conservatory canceled as well, adding to the disappointment.
However, Oberle is optimistic for the future. “While we are disappointed, we look forward to welcoming everyone back to the popular attraction in 2021.”
But not all is lost, as Brookside Gardens will still offer a variety of online and in-person programming for children and adults. The park will also be installing the fall Chrysanthemum Display outdoors.
The park’s outdoor garden areas are open daily from sunrise to sunset, while the visitor center is open daily from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The gift shop, which will be selling festive merchandise, is open every Wednesday through Monday.
For families looking to stay in the festive spirit, the Gaithersburg Winter of Lights Festival at Seneca Creek State Park is still scheduled to start Nov. 27, according to a press release. The Festival is open for drive-through visitors, and the purchase of tickets online is encouraged.
