As the year comes to a close, our souls protest the darkness of the oncoming winter. We must have light! Little wonder that many of our varied holiday traditions glow with strings of twinkling bulbs and shiny baubles.

On a cold, dark night, the holiday displays at Longwood Gardens are a particular delight for the eyes and the heart.

On entering the Main Conservatory, visitors are greeted with a towering tree trimmed in glass, glitter and feathers. White flowers and greenery line the dark pools and fountains.

Treasures of Christmas Past adorn a stair hall.

A child’s whimsical interpretation of Rudolph.

In the Orangery, the trees bear both fruit and delicately woven ornaments.

Oh, look! Here is a table is set for a festive holiday wedding! Polished silver and sparkling crystal gleam among the flowers and gifts in red and white.

When the sun sets, Longwood Gardens really shines. Lights twinkle from luminous trees everywhere you turn. Even a new moon adds its radiance to the festivities.

The Conservatory, aglow from within and without.

In this season of light in the darkness, I wish for a world without war, famine, poverty and pollution; a world where every creature has a healthy and protected home; a world where all people live in peace and prosperity.

Whatever your traditions may be at this holiday season, I wish for you good friends, good food, and good cheer!

The Wild Edge will return in early January. A Snowy Day!

Come forth into the light of things, let nature be your teacher.  – William Wordsworth