Million Bulb Walk — Norfolk Botanical Gardens
Some say Sandbridge is the best beach, but Norfolk Botanical Garden’s Million Bulb Walk is officially the best holiday light tour in the country according to USA Today! This remarkable experience, located by the Norfolk airport, is only a short drive away from Sandbridge. Upon arriving, staff is readily available to help you get parked and headed towards the beginning of the tour. Tickets can be purchased online or in person at the entrance which offers a gift shop and restrooms before heading out to see the lights. Once you walk through the doors into the garden — prepare to be amazed!
Before officially starting the tour, there is an outdoor photo booth with themed props to take pictures with. Then you follow the well lit path and enjoy the incredible display of mermaids, dolphins, navy ships, dragons, Santa Claus, and more. Listen to the holiday music and enjoy the one mile walk at your own pace. You can even grab a cup of hot chocolate from the food truck located along the route. The Norfolk Botanical Garden also has an app to help aid with navigation. Additional bathrooms are located along the walk for your convenience, and there is a tram that returns back to the parking lot after finishing the tour.
Looking for other fun ways to experience the lights? Take your vehicle through the lights starting on December 16th and there will also be two events scheduled for January. Kick off 2019 in a healthy way by enjoying a 2 mile fun run, or experience a walk with your dog before the lights get taken down. All proceeds go towards Norfolk Botanical Garden programs. Listed below are frequently asked questions provided by the Million Bulb Walk.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the days and hours of operation for the Million Bulb Walk?
Entry into MBW is from 4pm to 9pm daily starting Friday, November 9, 2018 through Saturday, December 15, 2018. The display closes at 10pm.
How much are tickets?
$17(not yet members)
$15(military)
$13(Garden members)
$10(children 3 to 17)
Children 2 & younger are Free.
Will I see the lights at 4pm?
Guests are welcome to enjoy the Garden’s 175 spectacular acres before it gets dark. As a bonus, avoid potentially long lines during peak visitation hours.
How do I get tickets?
When you purchase your date-specific tickets online, you will receive two emails. One is confirmation of your purchase. The second email will have a link to your e-ticket. You do not have to print out your e-ticket. We can scan your ticket right from your smartphone!
Do I have to purchase my ticket online?
We strongly encourage purchasing tickets in advance. Should our parking lot reach capacity, we will only allow those with pre- purchased tickets access to the display.
Do you have discounts?
Yes, for Garden members and Military. Guest passes and reciprocal benefits are not accepted for this special event. There are no group discounts.
What if I can’t use my ticket?
Million Bulb Walk is a rain or shine event and will occur as scheduled in rainy conditions. Bring an umbrella and jacket! Tickets may not be refunded if the event is running as advertised. Cancellations will be announced on the Garden’s website as well as Facebook.
Please contact Guest Services at 757-441-5830 ext. 324 48 hours in advance to reschedule your tickets.
How long is the Million Bulb Walk?
The event route is more than 1 mile long. It is accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and mobility assistance devices. A limited number of wheelchairs are available on a first come first served basis in our Visitor Center. At the end of the route, there is a tram that will take guests back to the parking lot.
Where do I park for the Million Bulb Walk?
Follow the road to our main parking lot, where parking attendants will be more than happy to direct you.
Is food available? May I bring food from outside?
Yes! Marigold & Honey will provide a number of snack and beverage options. Outside food and beverages are not permitted.
Will the Garden Gift Shop be open during the Million Bulb Walk?
Yes! Our Gift Shop located in the Baker Hall Visitor Center will be open until 9pm nightly.
Can I take pictures? What about selfie-sticks?
Yes, we encourage you to take photos – use the hashtag #NBGLights2018. Visitors may also use monopods or selfie-sticks with care.
May I bring a pet to Million Bulb Walk?
Pets are not allowed during this event. ADA Service animals are welcome.
Am I allowed to smoke during the Million Bulb Walk?
The Garden is a nicotine-free environment.
Is there a limit to how many tickets I can purchase as a Garden Member?
Members are welcome to purchase as many tickets as they would like, however only 6 tickets will be discounted at the member rate.
Can I walk into the Garden to see the Million Bulb Walk?
Due to the safety of our guests, we will not allow guests to walk into the Garden from the main entrance road after 5pm.
Are there restrooms available?
Yes, our Visitor Center and Rose Garden Hall are open nightly until 10pm and there are 2 restroom buildings located along the route.
