Submitted

A trip to Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens during December is a must for many Valley residents.

For more than 30 years the Gardens have helped get people get into the Christmas spirit during this special time of the year.

鈥淲e started off by having families come out and cut their own Christmas trees,鈥� said Bryan Zimmerman, owner of Woodland Gardens. 鈥淭hese days, because I wanted to create a lasting legacy with the Gardens, we don鈥檛 have trees for cutting anymore but what we have done during December is turned the Gardens into a wonderland of lights and activities that for many has become one of those must do holiday traditions.鈥�

Zimmerman鈥檚 description is somewhat modest because his Christmas display involves literally thousands of lights that have been hung from trees, line pathways, spotlight water fountains and light up the Gardens in a way that would even make Mother Nature envious.

Each year Zimmerman seems to outdo himself as he keeps on adding strings of new lights. Spread out along several kilometres of paths, this eye-popping, jaw-dropping display turns the Gardens into a sparkling winter wonderland.

One attraction that has not changed over the years is Santa鈥檚 Barn, which is decorated from floor to ceiling with fresh cedar bows, ornaments and of course a few Christmas trees that are just waiting to be surrounded by presents on the big day. For those who are very young and those who are still young at heart, Santa himself will be on hand beginning Dec. 9 and every weekend right up to Christmas Eve including Friday, Dec 22. He鈥檒l be there from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. each day he is on site to visit with the children and find out what is on their wish list.

Another highlight of the festivities takes place on Dec. 20 & 22. Beginning at 7 p.m. the Island Voices join in the festivities for carol walks where everyone can join in singing some holiday favorites.

Making spirits bright is what Christmas at the Gardens is all about and there鈥檚 often a roaring bonfire surrounded by log benches near Santa鈥檚 Barn that makes for a perfect gathering place.

The lights are turned on every night from 5-9 p.m. beginning Dec. 1 right through until Jan. 1. Regular garden admission applies. Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens is located on Whittaker Road just 15 minutes north of Courtenay off the Old Island Highway. For further information visit or call 250-338-6901.