When was the last time a white christmas was in Philadelphia?

Longwood gardens, Philadelphia. What time do the lights turn on for the Christmas display?

• On December 7 I am making the trip to Longwood Gardens for the Christmas display. It says only Executive members can go in that night (6pm and after) for an exclusive party. I have already made plans and cant really change them for that day, and I am not an executive member nor do I plan on purchasing that membership. I would also like to see it all lit up. Any ideas what time this all happens? Any advice from past experience?

• Answer:

  Stay as late as you're permitted. I don't know what time the lights go on, but it's been dark by 5 p.m. lately and the lights should be on before then. Hint: I think they operate the same as the Philly zoo, meaning that although they may "close" at, say, 5:00, they don't start kicking you out until then. Which means that if you're in the conservatory at 4:55, you'll have a nice stroll past the outdoor lights on your way to the exit (which is NOT a 2-minute walk from the conservatory). Let's just hope that they don't close early because of this "executive" business. IMO, the best part of Longwood at Christmas is the indoor exhibit, which can be enjoyed whether it's dark outside or not. The outdoor part is beautiful, but if you check tourist publications, you can find many outdoor lights displays that are as least as nice and are free as well. Happy holidays and have fun! P.S. Allow yourself plenty of time to deal with the traffic that backs up along Rte. 1 outside Longwood at Christmas!