Experience the Magic of Luminaria
First Light Members Night:
Thursday, December 11 from 5-8 pm
Public Nights:
Friday, December 12 from 5-9 pm
Saturday, December 13 from 5-9 pm
Nothing says holiday magic like walking through the Arboretum’s wintry landscape, aglow with a thousand candles and twinkling lights!
After your stroll, warm up in the Jewett Interpretive Center with:
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Hot chocolate
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Live music
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Children’s crafts
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Holiday shopping in the Tree House Gift Shop
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Firepits and seating available on the courtyard for those who prefer to enjoy the magic without walking the trail.
Support Luminaria – Suggested Donation $5 per person.
For over 30 years, the Arboretum has welcomed tens of thousands of families to wander through our winter wonderland, lit by thousands of candles and twinkle lights. Luminaria is a cherished tradition—and with your support, it can continue for generations. Please consider a $5 donation per participant to help keep this magical evening alive.
Parking & Shuttle Service
Public parking for Luminaria is located at the Kiwanis Park Playfields. Yakima Transit will be providing a FREE ADA-accessible shuttle service.
Address: 1501 E Maple St, Yakima, WA 98901
Hop on the shuttle for easy access to the Arboretum and enjoy Luminaria without worrying about parking!
Arboretum Access
The Arboretum grounds will be closed to all traffic except City Shuttles, and vehicles with approved parking passes and official Handicap Placards starting at 5:00pm on both nights.
Please be aware that onsite parking is very limited and available only in designated areas. Be prepared to walk a short distance, including those with handicap placards.
Important Traffic Note
Turn lanes from Highway 24 / Nob Hill Blvd into the Arboretum will be barricaded.
Vehicles needing access must make a U-turn behind U-Haul on S 24th before using the traffic signal to cross into the Arboretum.
Parking pass required for entry.
Don’t want to take the bus?
Members get to park at the Arboretum for First Light on December 11th! A pine membership gives the entire car access to this fun night!
FAQ – What you Need to Know
Pets
While leashed pets are normally allowed at the Arboretum, we kindly ask that you leave them at home for this busy event. Dogs can become tripping hazards on the dark trail, knock over candles, and/or disturb the peacefulness with their noisy excitement.
Accessibility
The mile-long Luminaria Trail is mostly flat with a few gentle slopes and areas of uneven ground. Please note that conditions may include puddles, mud, icy patches, or snow depending on the weather. We encourage all guests to walk carefully and wear appropriate footwear. For those who prefer to enjoy the evening from a cozy spot, seating will be available in the Gardenview Room, and firepits will be lit on the courtyard.
Lost and Found
It’s no surprise, that we find quite a few items along the trail after the event!
If you’ve found something, please bring it to the Arboretum’s Tree House Gift Shop.
If you’ve lost an item, call the office at (509) 248-7337 and leave a message with your name, contact information, and a description of the item. We’ll do our best to reunite you with it.
Kids' Craft
Children will be invited to decorate their own Luminaria bags to take home with them. Supplies will be provided free of charge, with tea light candles being sold to parents for a quarter.
Weather Policy
Luminaria is a winter outdoor event, so please come prepared for the season! Dress warmly and be ready for chilly or damp conditions.
If extreme weather or a power outage requires us to cancel, we’ll post updates on our Facebook and Instagram pages.
Otherwise, the event will go on—even if it’s cold or a little rainy!
Food and Drinks
Stop by Blissful Bites near the bus drop-off zone for freshly made donuts and pretzels!
Warm up with hot chocolate by donation inside the Jewett Interpretive Center.
Cost
Luminaria is free to attend, though we suggest a $5 donation per person to help support this beloved community event. Your contribution keeps the lights glowing year after year!
Live Entertainment
Check back soon for our entertainment schedule.