Twinkle in the 216
We are in partnership with Holden Forests & Gardens. While this post is sponsored, all opinions are our own.
Holidays at the garden

Have you ever been to a botanical garden after dark? It is a reminder that we are never alone. There is magic and mystique in how nature rests in the wintertime and at night. Cleveland Botanical Garden allows you to experience the beauty of florals lit in great color during their “Twinkle in the 216,” going on through December 31.

The gingerbread competition must be noticed. You can vote for your favorites, although all 30 are so fun. Kelsey Elizabeth Cakes made a replica of a modern farmhouse built by one of the competition sponsors. The Mockingbird Bakery created a model of the house in Cleveland’s own Tremont Neighborhood filmed in “A Christmas Story,” which is also a museum!

See the 20-foot-tall “living” tree
Incredible details on this gingerbread house
Street scenes of Cleveland neighborhoods
Magic in the night

Cleveland is a city of neighborhoods. There is so much culture and tradition rooted in pride within these areas. From Playhouse Square to Collinwood, to the suburbs of Avon Lake, Hudson and Parma, we are reminded that we’re united. Local bakers, garden clubs, and residents are showcasing love for our environments through the gingerbread competition and tree displays, all to spread cheer this season!

Cost is included with admission for children and adults and is free for members. Keep your hats, gloves, and coats on as you grab a cup of hot cocoa from the Garden Café. Stroll out to the courtyard gardens, then wander through the halls and galleries. Take in all there is in both Costa Rica and Madagascar Glasshouses.

David illuminating in the Glasshouse
The light installation of the pergola bridge is magical
Artist Ian Petroni created this and 4 other scenes depicting Cleveland landmarks
Community joins together ​

Resident groups in the neighborhoods and cities around Cleveland decorated each tree, wreath and dining table scene. There are handmade ornaments and front door displays that will leave you in awe and inspiring for us as we look forward to decorating our new home for the holidays!

We don’t want to give too much away, but this is a must-do if you’re in Cleveland before the end of 2022! Cleveland Botanical Garden is open all four seasons, where you can learn about the birds, butterflies, florals, and environment that is all so important around us. But this special exhibit at this most wonderful time of the year adds a touch that we love in the heart of University Circle.

And that’s what we’re here for. To connect and spread more love to you, more love for the world around us. What in nature inspires you in November and December? Let’s come together. Leave a comment for us below!

We enjoyed the remembrance of Lolly the Trolley
One of the beautiful front door scenes
Hanukkah dining table scene
Our favorite holiday tree featured a floating horse

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About Midwest Husbands

We are an interracial, same-sex married couple, on our journey of building a family, turning our house into a home and capturing our daily adventures.

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