Contact: Lisa Mulcrone, University Relations, (517) 355-2281, mulcron2@msu.edu; or Frank Telewski, Campus Park and Planning, (517) 355-9582, telewski@cpp.msu.edu
11/26/2003
EAST LANSING, Mich. � If during the holiday season you prefer candlelight to the bright fluorescent lights of the bustling stores, visit Michigan State University�s Hidden Lake Gardens near Tipton and view the 1,400 hand-lit candle luminaries arranged in holiday designs.
�This is the largest candle-lit luminary display in the Midwest; it is very unique,� said Frank Telewski, curator for MSU�s Office of Campus Park and Planning and interim director of the Hidden Lake Gardens. �It gives the festival a romantic, old-fashioned holiday feeling that you just don�t get in this day and age with electric lights.�
The candles will be lit after dark only during the Hidden Lake Gardens� Holiday Festival, which lasts from 2-8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, and from 5-8 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 7.
�Every year I am amazed at how breathtaking they are,� said Karen Wenk, director of development of MSU�s Campus Park and Planning. �The display really is a treat for your eyes and your heart, and it helps you appreciate all of the good and special aspects of the season.�
For more than 10 years, the Hidden Lake Gardens has added new ideas, such as color and different designs, to the display every holiday season. Volunteers Mac Marr and Jim Chamberlain of Onsted spend the whole year planning the next display.
On Dec. 6, Hidden Lake Gardens adds even more holiday spirit with opportunities for everyone, which include crafts for children, a visit with Santa Claus, musical entertainment, festive holiday decorations, refreshments and holiday shopping in the gift shop.
On Dec. 7, the candles will be hand-lit once more during the evening, and both the gift shop and conservatory will be open.
Admission is free for members of Hidden Lake Gardens and $3 per person for non-members. For more information, call (517) 431-2060.
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