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Turning On the 10th Annual Holiday Lights at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens in Belle Meade
by Rich and Laura Lynch
On Tuesday, November 19, 2024 Team MCN received an exclusive media preview of Cheekwood's Annual Holiday Lights - now back for its 10th year from November 22, 2024 through January 5, 2025. This season's display is even bigger and brighter than ever thanks to the addition of the Pixel Pine in the Color Garden.
The 10th season of Cheekwood's Annual Holiday Lights is now underway in Nashville.
This 28-foot tree changes hues and runs through a multiple of design patterns. It is one of many delights that folks will see as they stroll through the dazzling one-mile display of over one million festive lights. Some of our favorites were the peppermint pass and the triangular shapes reflected in a pond near a stream of blue illuminations.
As we walked through Cheekwood we noticed that some lights twinkle to create an illusion of movement. In addition to traditional Christmas colors Mardi-Gras was represented in a weeping willow like formation. As we entered the Turner Seasons Garden we observed that the train exhibit was decked out for the holidays, too.
The new 28-foot tall Pixel Pine was lit up for the first time on Tuesday.
The current setup features five separate train tracks that totals to over 800 feet in length. They use G scale (garden trains) about 1/22 the size of real trains that are designed to brave the outdoors so yet another marvel to enjoy at Cheekwood. There is also a welcoming Holiday Marketplace where they were serving up popular yet still sticky smores kits that were being gobbled up by kids and adults alike.
During her opening remarks at the Pixel Pine Tree lighting, Cheekwood President/CEO Jane MacLeod emphasized the joy and wonder present at Cheekwood as she thanked all the sponsors and supporters who bring the Annual Holiday Lights to life. She shared that she has watched people choose a special spot for their photos to capture the changes in their families from year to year as this popular event has become a tradition for many. Now, the outside displays are truly enchanting. But, there is even more to explore at the mansion.
Oh, to take a seat at this fabulous table in the mansion's dining room.
For 2024, former White House florist Laura Dowling collaborated with Cheekwood to craft an awe-inspiring Christmas in the stately home. Since it was opening night, Laura was on site to take us through the house. She mentioned that they began with a walk through of each room to observe the colors and culture, then crafted a theme for each.
For example, the dark wood tones of the library inspired "Hunting Country" so the trees were all decked out in reds and greens topped off with stags. "L'Orangerie" mixed flowers and fruits with a focus on lemons, limes and oranges. Another room reflected natural elements in winter colors. The "Butterfly Garden" took on the vibrant tones of the carpet and drapes where blues and pinks popped. Butterflies found their way into a number of designs including the pretty place settings in the divine dining room.
Lights lit up a paved mile-long trail full of holiday excitement.
Dowling described how most of her trees are layered from the inside out so there are tons of balls, ribbons and shapes to search for. Her designs blended beautifully with the decor of the mansion so this version of Cheekwood's Annual Holiday Lights is the biggest and brightest yet!
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is an accredited historical park in the heart of Middle Tennessee. Cultivated and natural beauty abounds there each season. In addition to the mansion that is a museum the property has a number of large-scale sculptures. Throughout the year they host concerts and seasonal events culminating with their much-anticipated Annual Holiday Lights which celebrates 10 years in 2024.
Cheekwood President/CEO Jane MacLeod and former White House florist Laura Dowling greet the attendees on opening night.
Cheekwood's website invites folks to "Experience Nashville's classic holiday tradition as you embark on a magical one-mile walk through Cheekwood's gardens illuminated by more than a million lights. A delightful experience for all ages awaits, complete with s'mores, seasonal libations, and a Holiday Marketplace. Tour the Historic Mansion, specially decorated this year by former White House florist Laura Dowling."
Having taken in this advance media preview along with several other associates from the world of press and dignitaries from the organiation's leadership we can safely say that Cheekwood's Annual Holiday Lights are indeed an ideal way to enjoy the holiday season!
One of many illuminated tunnels at Cheekwood's Holiday Lights.
Related Links:
For more information on CHEEKWOOD ESTATE & GARDENS and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links -
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens |
Laura Dowling - The Flower Podcast
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