Sherman Gardens presents Nights of a Thousand Lights

While plants are settling down for a long winter’s nap, members of the horticulture staff at Sherman Library & Gardens are hard at work transforming the 2.2 acres in Corona del Mar into a seasonal escape of twinkling lights and festive decor.

Sherman Gardens will host Nights of a Thousand Lights from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday by offering a display of flowers and holiday lighting.

Each section of the grounds will have a different theme, from a “winter wonderland” with blue starlights showcasing an evergreen forest to a display of hanging poinsettias.

The centerpiece of the show will be an 18-foot, silver-tipped fir tree embellished in gold lights and surrounded by flowers.

Garden paths will glow with 1,000 luminarias guiding visitors from one garden room to the next. Antique toys and classic Christmas photos will be on exhibit in the adobe gallery.

The Icicle Carolers will perform upbeat Christmas tunes, children can visit with Santa Claus and participate in activities, and guests can sample coffee, hot chocolate, cookies, wine and champagne. Cafe Jardin will be open for dinner, offering a four-course menu.

“This is the creativity of the staff,” Scott LaFleur, director of the gardens, said as he gave a tour at a media preview Thursday. “We decided we needed to do something for Christmas.”

LaFleur, who became director in January, said the gardens last had a Christmas tree in the 1970s.

“I’m from Boston, so when I see Christmas lights on palm trees I think it’s so cool,” LaFleur said. “Let’s make Christmas big this year.”

Sherman Library & Gardens is at 2647 E. Coast Hwy. General admission is $7. Tickets are $5 for members and free for children younger than 5.

For more information, call (949) 673-2261 or visit slgardens.org