(Above) Rows and rows of lights extended outward from the tree. The program claims that the 2024 tree was the biggest tree that has ever been featured in their program. The tree was set to be, “Bigger than ever,” for their fifth anniversary, according to dazzlingorlando.com, to top off the tree, a massive star can be seen twinkling from the start of the path.
When most people think of the winter holiday season they either imagine spending it at home or abroad. According to Bankrate, 48% of Americans choose to travel during the holidays, while 52% said they prefer staying home. Staying home for the holidays is often viewed as the more comfortable option as it provides more of an opportunity to be around loved ones without worrying about the impact travel prices will have on one’s life, especially with the added financial obligation of purchasing gifts around the holiday. Staying home is also viewed as a more comfortable option because you can surround your own Christmas tree. According to The New York Post, the harsh reality for 47% of Americans is that they simply cannot afford to travel during the holiday season. Regardless, 49% of these Americans believe the experience of traveling for the holidays is worth the price, even if this decision will worsen their financial situation. The holiday season is undeniably one of the most wonderful times of the year, but the stressful decisions that it brings can tend to damper its merriment. So is the adventure truly worth the cost?
(Above) The Dazzling Nights, in Leu Gardens, takes place November 28, 2025 – January 4, 2026. Ticket prices range from $22-$28 dollars per adult to $19-$24 per child. However, on select nights, prices can be discounted. When going through this walkway, guests will be going under 14-foot dazzling stars that extended throughout the path. (Ava Anderson)(Above) When guests first enter the Dazzling Nights, a great number of trees can be seen with colorful lights dropping down from the branches. Along with the lights, scattered around were numerous poinsettias. Throughout the trail, there were a total of 800 candles glistening through the stained glass windows to provide a magical experience. (Ava Anderson)(Above) When reaching the end of the path, countless arches and walkways were bundled with colorful lights where many families stop to take photos. Featured on the arch were lights depicting parrots, flowers, and much more. On dazzlingorlando.com, they claim that Europe’s holiday festivals inspire their luminaria walls. Before going to the Dazzling Nights, there are some things to note. To complete the path, the estimated duration is from 60-90 minutes. Additionally, although mentioned that the price was from $19-$28, onsite parking can cost up to an additional $16. Overall, the experience is no-doubt worth the price. (Ava Anderson)(Above) During the Christmas season, Borough Market, located in the heart of London, is packed with excited shoppers and tourists. Being only a two minute walk from the siginificantly populated London Bridge, this market is extremely accessible to all. The diverse food choices and festive decorations make this destination perfect for getting into the holiday spirit by spending time with family. The efficiency of the workers and the eagerness of the customers make purchases pleasant rather than painful, largely contributing to the success of the location. (Fiona Knight)(Above) Covent Garden is arguably one of the most popular tourist sights in all of London because of the vast array of shops, restaurants, and craft markets it offers. Each year, Covent Garden receives more than 44 million visitors from all around the world. During the holidays, vendors and city officials go all out when decorating the venue, contributing to the sense of magic that attracts visitors. Not only are there disco balls, and bells hanging from the roof of the main path, but there are also countless shining wreaths and Christmas trees everywhere. (Fiona Knight)(Above) Liberty, London, one of the city’s signature luxury shopping destinations, makes a point of giving shoppers an enjoyable experience rather than a stressful one. Their large array of decorations and everyday items makes it impossible to walk out empty handed. While they do have traditional Christmas necessities like stockings and tree toppers, their exclusive ornaments and Liberty merchandise are extensive. (Fiona Knight)(Above) Every year, Chanel stores internationally showcase their undying glamour and love for the holiday season with their eccentric Christmas decorations. Not only are these decorations, including this sparkling bow, beautiful, but they are virtually impossible for any passerby to miss. Their brightness can be seen even far away from the store and contribute greatly to the joy of the city by lighting it with luxurious cheerfulness. Chanel not only embraces the holiday season with decorations, but seasonal specialties for purchase, specifically their luxury advent calendar. Composed of hand lotions, ornaments, and make-up all the way to their world renowned perfumes, their gifts are the embodiment of extravagance. (Fiona Knight)(Above) From November all the way to early January, sparkling, statement piece decorations line many of London’s most famous streets. Regent Street, located in the central area of the city, is home to London’s famed angels, hanging high in the center of the street over the people and cars passing by. Since 1954, these figures have served as a representation of the excellent British architecture famed internationally. The early sunset in the city during the winter provides the perfect backdrop for these statuesque angels to shine and be seen by all. (Fiona Knight)
Ava Anderson, Class of 2027, attends Lake Highland Preparatory School. Ava had always been interested in reading and would read every book on the yearly reading list. She found her interest in writing after listening to some artists such as Jeff Buckley andRadiohead. After constantly listening to artists such as those, simple words grew so much more meaning, leading her to want to create writing of her own. In the future, she hopes to become a news anchor.
Fiona Knight, grade 10, is a returning member and Co-editor of the Twice-Told Tale staff. Fiona enjoys traveling, spending time with friends and family, trying new foods, and most of all, playing tennis. Fiona was a part of the varsity tennis team in both eighth and ninth grade and plans to continue playing outside of school throughout high school and into the future. She also has a passion for writing and joined the newspaper staff in hopes of increasing her opportunities to become a better writer and have more exposure to the world of journalism. In the future, Fiona hopes to expand her knowledge of world languages and the countless diverse cultures all around the globe.
