Get ready for a festive experience filled with holiday cheer, live music, and family fun at the Queens Botanical Garden’s much-anticipated Winter Wonder event, returning on Saturday, December 7. From noon to 5 p.m., the iconic garden in Flushing will transform into a winter wonderland, offering a variety of activities, performances, and seasonal delights for guests of all ages.
Queens Botanical Garden, located at 43-50 Main St. in Flushing, is proud to continue this beloved holiday tradition that draws thousands of visitors annually. With its magical atmosphere, Winter Wonder has become one of the borough’s must-attend events, attracting families, friends, and locals to celebrate the season together. Last year’s event set attendance records, and this year promises even more excitement.
Celebrate the Season with Live Music and Performances
Winter Wonder 2024 is all about bringing the community together to celebrate the holidays with music and culture. The event will feature a diverse lineup of live performances that will get everyone in the holiday spirit. Fogo Azul, a samba reggae ensemble, will kick off the festivities at noon, bringing vibrant rhythms and energy to the garden. Their performance will be a perfect start to the day, filling the air with upbeat and festive sounds.
At 1:30 p.m., the talented Queens-based MMR Trio will take the stage, offering a smooth and soulful jazz performance to elevate the holiday mood further. At 2:00 p.m., Eleonore Weill and her band will bring klezmer tunes to the garden, offering a delightful blend of Jewish cultural music that adds a unique touch to the event.
The live music experience will continue with The Jolly Holiday Carolers at 3:30 p.m. Their classic Christmas carols will bring traditional holiday joy to the crowd, creating a nostalgic and heartwarming atmosphere. The day’s music will culminate in the grand tree lighting ceremony at 4:30 p.m., marking the perfect moment to gather and witness the garden’s transformation into a shimmering holiday haven.
Holiday Fun for the Whole Family
Winter Wonder at Queens Botanical Garden offers something for everyone, from festive performances to family-friendly activities. A favorite tradition is snapping a photo with Santa Claus. Families can capture lasting memories with St. Nick himself, making for a picture-perfect moment.
In addition to Santa selfies, the event will feature an outdoor Holiday Market where visitors can shop for one-of-a-kind gifts and artisanal products. Whether you’re looking for unique holiday decorations, hand-crafted items, or seasonal treats, the market will have a wide selection of products from local vendors, making it the perfect spot to find special gifts for loved ones.
The Queens Botanical Garden Shop will also be open during the event, offering a selection of botanical-inspired gifts and garden-themed items. It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring a piece of the garden home with you.
For those looking to add a personal touch to their holiday celebrations, there will be holiday crafts stations where visitors can create their own seasonal decorations. Whether you’re making ornaments or cards, these hands-on activities are a fun and creative way to embrace the season’s spirit.
Warm Up with Seasonal Treats
No holiday event is complete without some tasty treats, and Winter Wonder delivers with its Holiday Bar. Guests can warm up with a selection of seasonal drinks, from hot chocolate to mulled wine, as they enjoy the festive atmosphere. Sip on your favorite cozy beverage while exploring the garden’s enchanting holiday displays and taking in the live performances.
Explore a Winter Wonderland at Queens Botanical Garden
The Queens Botanical Garden is a true urban oasis, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. During Winter Wonder, the garden becomes even more magical as the holiday season brings added beauty to its lush landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the garden while celebrating the diverse cultures and traditions that make Queens such a vibrant place to live and visit.
The event is also a chance to appreciate the work that Queens Botanical Garden does year-round to educate the public about environmental stewardship and gardening. Through its educational programs and sustainable practices, the garden helps foster a greater understanding of how plants and people can thrive together.
Ticket Information
Admission to Winter Wonder is affordable and accessible for all. Tickets are $6 for adults, $4 for seniors, students with ID, and individuals with disabilities, and $2 for children ages 4-12. Children under 3 and QBG members can enjoy the event for free.
As a non-profit institution, Queens Botanical Garden is supported in part by public funding from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, Queens Borough President, and other generous organizations. This support allows the garden to host events like Winter Wonder, which bring the community together and make the beauty of the garden accessible to all.
A Festive Tradition You Won’t Want to Miss
Winter Wonder is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of the holiday season and the vibrant spirit of Queens. Whether you’re coming for the music, the market, the crafts, or the opportunity to make memories with your family, this year’s Winter Wonder promises to be a heartwarming experience for everyone.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 7, and come celebrate the season at Queens Botanical Garden’s Winter Wonder. From live performances and festive activities to holiday shopping and Santa selfies, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss out on this magical day of holiday cheer—see you in the garden!
Photo Credit: Queens Botanical Garden