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Redding Garden of Lights Wins #7 in Best Holiday Lights Display in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Award

Updated: December 10, 2024
News Release - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Turtle Bay Exploration Park’s treasured holiday light display gains national recognition

Turtle Bay Exploration Park is thrilled to announce that the Redding Garden of Lights has been ranked #7 in the nation for the Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights Displays in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards! This prestigious honor reflects the incredible community support and the hard work behind this spectacular holiday tradition.

The Redding Garden of Lights, presented by Dignity Health Mercy Medical Center Redding, has become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, captivating audiences with its breathtaking displays of over two million lights across ten acres. Highlights from this year’s display include brand new features such as the Enchanted Forest, a magical display of suspended chandeliers, and the whimsical Peppermint Portal, with returning favorites like the Glowing Swings, Prismatic Pollinators, and Model Train Town.

Nestled within the vibrant surroundings of the McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, the carefully curated collection of native and nonnative trees, unique plants, and tranquil garden features provide the perfect canvas for each year’s spectacular light displays. Strategically placed lights emphasize the unique shapes and textures of the trees and plants, while additional displays celebrate wildlife, showcasing shimmering depictions of birds, pollinators, and reptiles.

The state-of-the-art Redding Garden of Lights was designed by Tres Fromme, a leading expert in botanical gardens and seasonal displays. Each season, Turtle Bay Exploration Park staff begin installing the lights several months in advance, with a dedicated team meticulously placing each strand and constructing custom infrastructure to support the unique displays.

“We are honored to receive this recognition on a national level. This award celebrates not just the hard work of our team but also the incredible support of our community and visitors who make this event so special year after year.”

— Lindsay Myers, President and CEO of Turtle Bay Exploration Park

Turtle Bay Exploration Park thanks everyone who voted and contributed to this milestone achievement. Buy your tickets to experience the magic firsthand at the 5th Annual Redding Garden of Lights, open now through January 5th. For tickets, event information, and more, please visit reddinggardenoflights.org.

See the full list of gardens chosen by USA Today readers: https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/travel/best-botanical-garden-holiday-lights-2024/

About Shasta Economic Development Corporation
Shasta Economic Development Corporation is a 501(c)(3) public benefit corporation focused on growing, diversifying and maintaining a balanced economy, leading to more economic stability and sustainability for Shasta County.

Media Contacts:
Erik Janiszewski / Erik@ShastaEDC.org
Rebecca Baer / Rebecca@ShastaEDC.org

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