Over the years, the Winter Luminary Walk at Dyck Arboretum of the Plains has become a tradition for many people.  Here are my top seven reasons to be part of this unique event:

The south bridge is one of our favorite spots along the path during the luminary walk, especially on a magically snowy night. Photo by Ken Raney.

• Enjoy the natural beauty of the gardens in winter.  Thousands of lights bring the arboretum to life, highlighting the pure, organic forms of the trees, shrubs and prairie plants.
• Relax and stroll the pathways with more than 900 jars and candles lighting the way.  No commercial glitz – just the simple, soft light of candles.

• Roast s’mores.  Warm yourself by the fires and roast a marshmallow.  Sticky fingers, but oh so good.
• Drink hot almond tea with Christmas cookies in the Visitor Center.  This drink is perfect on a cold winter night along with cookies from the Hesston Women’s Civic Club and other volunteers.

Walkers gather around the fire to roast marshmallows.

• Make memories at the Arboretum.  It is great to be with family and friends spending an evening together.  Forget about the hustle and bustle of the season, slow down and enjoy together everything this time of the year has to offer.
• Be creative. Each night children will make crafts that relate to a different culture’s holiday traditions.
• Learn about other cultures.  With the theme “Joy to the World: A Multicultural Celebration”, this year’s luminary walk will include performers, crafts, stories and an outdoor nativity representing a variety of cultural perspectives.

Stop in to the buildings to warm up and be creative during craft time.

We at the arboretum enjoy hosting this special event.  It is unique because it invokes fond memories of Christmas’ past while making new memories with the special people in your lives.  Come, relax, and enjoy this one-of-a-kind Christmas celebration.

For this year’s Luminary Walk schedule and line-up of performers, click here.