Shelburne Museum Winter Lights is in full swing for the holiday season

Via Community News Service, in partnership with the University of Vermont for Shelburne News

SHELBURNE — Now in its fifth year, Shelburne Museum’s Winter Lights runs from Nov. 21 through Jan. 4, drawing crowds for its illuminated displays, interactive exhibits and two dedicated sensory-friendly nights that offer a calmer, more accessible experience of the event.

Winter Lights becomes the heart of Shelburne Museum’s 40-acre campus during the holiday season, when the museum is otherwise closed. Every member of the museum staff plays a role in making it happen. Internal teams such as the visitor experience, design and logistics committees collaborate closely with outside vendors and partners to ensure the five-week event runs smoothly.

The museum estimates ticket sales for Winter Lights generate between $800,000 and $1 million, making up 40% of its annual admissions revenue.  

Beyond the glowing first impression, the event invites community members inside to explore, discover and learn more about the wide-ranging collection at the museum.

“What I really love is that they incorporate elements of what the museum is about: the arts, history, and culture. Pieces of these quintessential things from the museum (are woven) into the display,” said Kat Redniss, public programs director at Shelburne Museum.

The majority of the attractions at Winter Lights decorate the museum’s most popular exhibits. Highlights include the Steamboat Ticonderoga, the last walking-beam side-wheel passenger steamer in existence; Locomotive 220 and the Grand Isle private rail car; and the Diamond Barn, home to a model train installation. 

“It’s nice for people to explore if it wasn’t on their radar, or if they’re not museum-goers regularly. This is a way for them to experience the grounds,” Redniss said.

On a typical Winter Lights night, Shelburne Museum welcomes between 2,000 and 3,000 visitors. For those who prefer a calmer, less overwhelming environment, the museum also offers Sensory Friendly Winter Lights during the five-week run. Attendance for these evenings is limited to just 200 to 300 tickets, creating a quieter, more spacious experience. The first sensory-friendly night took place Dec. 1 and the next will be held Dec. 15 from 4 to 7:30 p.m.

These evenings are designed with accessibility and comfort in mind. Sensory Friendly Winter Lights evenings include know-before-you-go materials and on-site support from the education team to help guests feel prepared and supported. Visitors are encouraged to bring headphones or any personal support materials they may need.

While the visual experience remains just as magical as regular admission, the environment is intentionally gentle, with no strobe effects or overwhelming attractions. 

“We have people who come for a variety of reasons, and we just want folks to feel welcome, like they can have this experience in a way that isn’t going to cause them stress or harm,” Redniss said. “It allows them to be present in a way that feels comfortable for them.”

Guests are free to guide themselves through the museum’s illuminated campus using a digital map available through a QR code upon entry. Through Winter Lights, Shelburne Museum continues its mission of building community through art, history and education. “It’s something that is really joyful and brings people together,” Redniss said. “It’s busy, but there’s also a lovely quietness to being in nature.”

Events similar to Winter Lights are held throughout the year at Shelburne Museum. Visit https://shelburnemuseum.org/ for more information.