The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is one of my favorite places. From the spring spectacle of a bazillion blooming tulips of Dallas Blooms, to the summer perennial beds bordered by annuals, through fall and the amazing Pumpkin Patch, there is something for everyone at any season. Winter tends to be less colorful, which means the lines and shapes of the huge trees can be better appreciated.
The spare landscape was enhanced this winter by the addition of twelve 25-foot Victorian gazebos depicting the 12 Days of Christmas. The original idea was suggested by Phyllis and Tom McCasland and executed by Dallas Opera production designer Tommy Bourgeous and Greg Blackburn (Dallas Stage Scenery). Two years later, here it is!
Nighttime was the perfect time to view the exhibit. The lights in the trees cast a soft glow along the paths of the garden as we wandered from #1 to #12. Music added to the charming scenes.
We got lucky, getting tickets for a night with balmy 60degree temperatures. You never know what December will bring in N.Texas.
Spectacular does not begin to describe the gazebos. The colors, the gem-like settings and the life-size costumed-figures, many with mechanical, moving parts, take your breath away.
Here they are!
On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me,
A Partridge In A Pear Tree
A Partridge In A Pear Tree
On the second day – Two Turtle Doves
Two Turtle Doves
On the third day – Three French Hens
Three French Hens
On the fourth day – Four Calling Birds
Four Calling Birds
On the fifth day – Five Golden Rings
Five Golden Rings
On the sixth day – Six Geese A-Laying
Six Geese A-Laying
On the seventh day – Seven Swans A-Swimming
Seven Swans A-Swimming
On the eighth day – Eight Maids A-Milking
Eight Maids A-Milking
On the ninth day – Nine Ladies Dancing
Nine Ladies Dancing
On the tenth day – Ten Lords A-Leaping
Ten Lords A-Leaping
On the eleventh day – Eleven Pipers Piping
Eleven Pipers Piping
On the twelfth day – Twelve Drummers Drumming
Twelve Drummers Drumming
The exhibit will be up through January 4, 2015. I can’t promise snow, but I can promise you will enjoy this magical display.