The Environmental Learning Center (ELC) announces the return of its signature holiday event, WinterGreen Night Lights, transforming the natural beauty of the Indian River Lagoon into a luminous wonderland for the public to enjoy on December 5 and 6, 2024, from 5:30 to 8:30 PM. 

"WinterGreen Night Lights offers a rare opportunity to experience our local environment in a completely different light," said Barbara Schlitt Ford Executive Director of the Environmental Learning Center. "It's where holiday magic meets natural wonder." 

Event Highlights: 

  • Illuminated Trails: Wander through thousands of twinkling lights along scenic trails.
  • Campfire & S’mores: Gather around the fire, tell stories, and make outdoor memories.
  • Holiday Crafts: Engage in festive craft-making sessions that are fun for all ages.
  • Mangrove Magic Encounter: For an extra touch of magic, a guide will take you through lit mangrove tunnels in a canoe, an experience not to be missed. Tickets for this special activity are $15 and are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the event. 

General Admission Details for December 5 & 6: 

  • General Admission: Just $5 for individuals 12 and over. Free for those 11 and under
  • What’s Included: Your ticket grants access to holiday crafts, the campfire, art galleries inspired by nature, the Living Lagoon with its aquariums and touch tanks, the Nature Nook eco-boutique, and our newly introduced illuminated nature playscape. 

Important Note: This year, it’s first-come, first-served - no reservations needed. 

Private Celebrations: Make your holiday gathering truly special with an exclusive Mangrove Magic canoe experience. Book this unique nighttime paddle adventure as a private no-wait experience for your private group at $750 for up to 50 people (just $15 per person), with additional guests welcome at $15 each. (Paddle time spent out on the water is approximately 30 minutes). Enhance your evening with our popular campfire and s'mores experience for an additional $500 for up to 50 people ($10 per person), with extra guests at $10 each. It's an affordable and memorable way to celebrate the season with your company, family, or organization. For private bookings, email bookings@discoverelc.org.

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About the Environmental Learning Center 

The Environmental Learning Center is a bio-diverse, 64-acre lagoon-island nature center dedicated to educating, inspiring, and empowering all people to be active stewards of the environment and their own well-being. 

For more information about WinterGreen Night Lights, please visit www.DiscoverELC.org or call 772-589-5050.