Christmas at Longwood

Enjoy the sight of 750 fountains in the Open Air Theatre during the holidays at Longwood Gardens near Kennett Square, Pa.

The fountains dance to holiday music each half-hour beginning at 11 a.m. After dark, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., starry snowflakes up to 6 feet wide and icicles up to 5 feet long sparkle in surrounding trees, while the fountains take on the colors of a Christmas rainbow. Also, thousands of poinsettias, towering trees, fragrant flowers and exotic plants fill 4 acres of gardens inside the crystal palace conservatory.

Daily concerts and 400,000 outdoor decorative lights add to the holiday magic.

The gardens, on U.S. 1, are open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, including Christmas and New Year's days. Holiday displays run through Jan. 3. Admission is $12 ($8 Tuesdays), $6 ages 16-20, $2 ages 6-15, and free for those under 6. Call 610-388-1000.

The 1999 Washington Auto Show commemorates the past and previews the future of the automobile industry Saturday through Jan. 3 at the Washington Convention Center. With the theme "Celebration of the Centuries," the Washington Area New Automobile Dealers Association recognizes the industry's history while also looking at the year 2000 and beyond.

More than 35 domestic and foreign automotive manufacturers will display more than 500 new cars, trucks, mini-vans and sport-utility vehicles. Daily entertainment and giveaways also are scheduled.

The convention center is at 900 Ninth St. N.W. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday through Wednesday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 31; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Jan. 1-2, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Jan. 3. Admission is $8, $6 seniors and ages 6-12, under 6 free. Call 301-670-1110.

Pub Date: 12/24/98