Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens invites guests to immerse themselves in the nostalgic magic of the season with this year’s holiday display, ‘Twas, now through January 4. Inspired by the classic poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” by Clement Clarke Moore, ‘Twas unfolds through a series of sentimental scenes celebrating the spirit of generosity, tradition and family bonds, bringing visitors back to cherished holiday memories.
Imagined by designer Ed Libby and brought to life by Bellagio’s Horticulture team, the Conservatory display combines breathtaking floral arrangements and festive décor to bring the enchanting story to life, transporting guests into a beloved holiday dream. Adding to the experience, the Peppermint Express returns, serving delicious treats baked by Bellagio’s talented pastry chefs.
“This year’s theme offered us a special opportunity to create an experience that brings out the nostalgia of the holidays,” said Libby. “By blending iconic holiday elements with a comforting, dream-like atmosphere, we’ve crafted a display that even the most sophisticated adults can enjoy with childlike wonder. I feel this is our most traditional, quintessential holiday Conservatory ever – it’s designed to evoke warmth, joy and the unmistakable spirit and emotions of the season.”
West Bed
At the heart of the West Bed, an impressive 45-foot holiday tree towers above the scenery crowned with a glistening Swarovski star, dressed in over 35,000 mini-LED lights and covered with 8,700 ornaments. The awe-inspiring fir from Burney, California commands attention while the Peppermint Express miniature train chugs merrily around its trunk. Nearby screens feature a special ground-view feed of the train’s journey, immersing visitors into the scene. To the right of the bed, a stunning gingerbread house is lit from within, decorated with ruby red hearts, snow-like icing and the signature Bellagio “B,” complete with smoke escaping from its chimney and elves adding finishing touches. A vintage-style carousel invites guests to reminisce, with its handcrafted regal horses and ornate canopy adorned in red, green and gold embellishments. Oversized ornaments and vibrant poinsettias blanketing the ground, while trees of all sizes sparkle with lights and decorations, adding to the display’s holiday grandeur.
North Bed
At the center of the North Bed, whimsical stockings hang above a crackling fireplace, each filled with surprises for eager children. The gentle tick of an elaborate timepiece builds anticipation for the excitement of Christmas morning. On the left of the bed, a magnificent crimson sack overflows with handcrafted toys, while an elf playfully rides a wooden rocking horse nearby. A timeless scroll bearing the story behind ‘Twas leans against a stack of oversized gifts on the right, adding to the display’s nostalgic charm. Across the bed, poinsettias and holiday trees decorated by skilled elves bring seasonal warmth, while chandeliers and candlelit sconces hang above. Enchanting LED screens display winter scenes set to a bespoke holiday soundtrack, accompanied by the scent of a Sugar Plum Fairy-scented candle, available for guests to purchase as a keepsake from the Giardini Garden Store.
East Bed
The East Bed features a striking, gilded sleigh pulled by two elegantly dressed reindeer made of botanical elements. Perched atop a mountain of beautifully wrapped presents, an adventurous elf awaits, ready to embark on a journey delivering joy across the globe. Visitors can stroll along a walking path winding through the magical scene, lined with red poinsettias and a snow-covered railing, discovering the intricate details that make this display a true work of art. A floral sculpture of pinecones, holly berry and tree branches soar above the glimmering holiday trees and botanicals below.
South Bed
The grand Bellagio bear, Drum Major Dolly, proudly shines as the star of the South Bed. Dressed in her ceremonial red uniform with gold shoulder tassels, Dolly radiates cheer as she plays along to the beat of the season’s melodies. Two spectacular chandeliers glow softly overhead, representing the exquisite craftsmanship of the display. To the left, a dedicated elf scales a ladder, adding finishing touches to this collaborative masterpiece by Bellagio’s Horticulture team. The vibrant red and white poinsettias, larger-than-life ornaments and snowy trees enhance the bed, signifying hope, love and prosperity.
Peppermint Express
Guests craving a festive refreshment can visit the Peppermint Express pop-up to enjoy holiday-inspired offerings created by the Bellagio Pastry Team. Assorted treats and beverages are available for purchase in the Conservatory alcove behind the South Bed across the OMEGA Boutique from 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily. After Thanksgiving, hours will extend from 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily. Menu items include holiday cookies, peppermint meringue, chocolate candies, holiday nougat, popcorn, drip coffee and hot chocolate.
Sustainability at the Conservatory
Water used in Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens comes from on-site underground wells that use rain and recycled water from the resort, avoiding the use of municipal potable water. The water in the Conservatory is also recycled throughout the exhibit and reused at the resort. Bellagio’s water conservation efforts are part of MGM Resorts International’s overall sustainability commitment.
At the conclusion of each display, plants and botanical material without remaining viable life are separated for collection by a local composting facility. The organic waste is made into compost products to help improve the environment. This method of recycling keeps thousands of pounds of waste out of local landfills and turns it into something that improves the region’s soil, air and water quality.
‘Twas 2024 Holiday Display by the Numbers
- 110,000: Energy-efficient light bulbs on the trees
- 20,000: Poinsettias throughout the display
- 7,500: Preserved red and black roses on Drum Major Dolly
- 8,700: Ornaments on the holiday tree
- 1,000: Red feathers on Drum Major Dolly’s cap
- 80: Team members who bring the display to life
- 45-foot: Holiday tree at the center of the display
- 41: Fresh-cut Silvertip trees throughout the display
- 6: Days to complete the change out
- 3: Carousel horses spinning in the West Bed
- 2: Larger than life reindeer
- 1: Swarovski crystal star topping the holiday tree
Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is complimentary and open to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
