Moonlight in the Garden

A Magical Lighting Exhibition with Our Friends from Southern Lights of Raleigh and the North Carolina Agricultural Foundation, Inc.

2026 Event Nights

Preview Night: Thursday, November 5

Get a sneak peek during Preview Night. Limited tickets are available for this special night that offers an all-inclusive experience. Beer and wine are only served during Preview Night; all other nights are alcohol-free.

Opening Weekend: Friday-Saturday, November 6 — 7

Second Weekend: Friday — Saturday, November 13 — 14

Third Weekend: Friday — Saturday, November 20 — 21

This isn't your typical lighting event. Moonlight in the Garden is meticulously designed to showcase our internationally acclaimed garden and all its splendor. You think our collection is spectacular by day? Wait until you see it under the cover of darkness artfully lit on a crisp November evening. It's a magical experience you don't want to miss.

outdoor landscape lighting-colorful bananas and luminaria

Stroll through the garden, listen to a live band, grab a bite to eat from a food truck, roast a marshmallow or two at the fire pits, and sip a cup of hot apple cider. Each turn offers a different perspective, ensuring that both returning guests and first-time visitors will discover something new to delight in at every step.

Moonlight in the Garden isn't just magical — it's meaningful. As our largest annual fundraising event, it helps raise the funds necessary to keep our gates open and admission free 365 days a year. Bring a friend (or two!) and be part of a night that lights up both the garden and our mission.

Be inspired. Be delighted. Be in awe of the beauty of a nighttime garden.

Proceeds from Moonlight in the Garden benefit the daily operations of the JC Raulston Arboretum. All funds raised at Moonlight in the Garden are collected and managed by the North Carolina Agricultural Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit (tax ID 56-6049304).

Location: JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State University, 4415 Beryl Road, Raleigh, NC 27606.
Directions: Get directions to the JC Raulston Arboretum.
Questions: Contact the JCRA Events Team at jcra-events@ncsu.edu or 919-515-3132 for more information about this event.