As the holiday season approaches, the search for mesmerizing Christmas lights and festive displays begins. If you’re in the DC, Maryland, or Virginia area, you’re in for a real treat with a plethora of dazzling Christmas lighting near you options to choose from. These enchanting Christmas holiday lights displays are sure to brighten your spirits and create lasting memories. Whether you prefer strolling through captivating neighborhoods or experiencing the magic from the comfort of your car at a Christmas drive-through, the region offers a variety of options for everyone.
To better help you decide, which holiday lights and Christmas display near me are worth visiting this season. Here is your list of places to see Christmas light in the DC, Virginia, and Maryland area.
Christmas at the Gaylord by yatzuri thomasTable of Contents:
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Black Santa Near Me by yatzuri thomasChristmas Holiday Lights Near Me in Washington DC
The National Zoo – Zoolight
Address: 3001 Connecticut Ave., NW Washington, DC 20008
Dates: November 24 – December 30
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Cost: $6 per individual
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, D.C. is hosting its 15th annual ZooLights event, where visitors can explore a winter wonderland adorned with over half a million eco-friendly LED lights. This festive experience includes lantern displays showcasing various habitats like rainforests, grasslands, deserts, oceans, and polar regions. Attendees can also enjoy live music, tasty treats, and holiday shopping opportunities. The event runs on select dates from November 24th to December 30th. While ZooLights offers a captivating display, indoor animal exhibits will be closed, ensuring the animals’ undisturbed rest. Entrance closes at 8:30 p.m. on Thursdays to Saturdays and 7:30 p.m. on Sundays.
The District Holiday Boat Parade
Address: 101 District Square SW, Washington, DC 20024
Dates: December 2
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Cost: Free
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
On December 2, 2023, the District’s Holiday Boat Parade, sponsored by Washington Gas, will light up the Washington Channel with over sixty festively adorned boats. This iconic DC event, suitable for all ages, offers an array of landside activities. Attendees can indulge in ornament crafting, s’mores roasting at the Camp Wharf fire pit, and ice skating at The Wharf Ice Rink. The venue also features a radiant 45ft Christmas Tree, winter beverages at the Corona Beer Garden, and a photo opportunity with Santa. The event promises a day of holiday cheer and memorable festivities.
Enchant DC
Address: 1500 South Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Dates: November 24 – December 31
Time: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Cost: $32 for adults and $24 for junior
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Enchant offers a whimsical, immersive holiday experience where visitors can help find Santa’s reindeer’s magic bells. Key attractions include “Reindeer Games,” a grand light maze; “The Village,” with artisan vendors and holiday treats; an ice skating trail set amidst a radiant forest of lights; “Santa’s Landing,” where you can meet Santa and have photos taken; and the “Little Elves Play Place,” a serene spot for families with children aged 0-7 to enjoy various activities. From mazes to markets and skating to Santa, Enchant promises a magical and memorable festive outing.
Tudor Place
Address: 1644 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007
Dates: December 7
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Cost: Members $25, Non-members $50
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Tudor Place invites you to kickstart the festive season with “Tudor Lights,” a special holiday event. Guests can explore the historic house, gaining insight into the Peter Family’s gift-giving traditions, and enjoy a beautifully illuminated garden stroll. This event also offers a unique chance to view seldom-seen items from the Tudor Place Collection & Archive. The evening concludes with cocktails and seasonal refreshments at the Dower House. Entry costs are $25 for members and $50 for non-members.
The Yards
Address: 355 WATER ST SE WASHINGTON, DC 20003
Dates: November 29 – January 1
Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cost: Free
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
The Yards in Washington DC is a vibrant destination offering a mix of urban convenience and natural beauty. This iconic neighborhood is designed for walking and working, featuring green spaces, waterfront vistas, and a variety of dining options. Residents and visitors can enjoy a balanced lifestyle with both neighborhood amenities and natural retreats, ensuring there’s little need to travel far for any necessities or leisure.
CityCenter Christmas Tree
Address: 825 10th Street NW, DC, United States
Dates: November 26
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Cost: Free
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
The CityCenterDC will host its Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration on Saturday, November 26 at 6 p.m. in The Park. Highlighted by a massive 75-foot tree adorned with over 150,000 lights and 4,500 ornaments, it’s one of the city’s grandest holiday spectacles. NBC 4 Anchor Eun Yang will emcee the event, featuring a live performance by the seven-piece dance band, The Revels. Attendees can also look forward to face painting, balloon art, delicious treats from local CityCenterDC vendors, and other enchanting surprises that evoke the festive spirit of the season.
Related Post: 19 +Christmas Tree Lighting, Parades & Top Events in the DMV
The Wharf
Address: 101 District Square SW, Washington, DC 20024
Dates: November 27
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: Free
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
The Wharf invites everyone to usher in the festive season with the lighting of their grand 45-foot Christmas tree, turning the waterfront into a mesmerizing display of shimmering lights. Families can capture memorable moments with photos by the tree and savor a meal at any of the Wharf’s diverse restaurants. The evening can be cozily wrapped up with s’mores roasted over the firepit at Camp Wharf.
US Botanic Garden
Address: 100 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC 20001
Dates: November 23 – January 1
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Cost: Free
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
The annual “Season’s Greenings” holiday display at the Garden offers visitors a festive experience, with model trains running daily in the gated outdoor gardens from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., between Nov. 23, 2023, and Jan. 1, 2024 (closed on Dec. 25).
On select Thursdays, the trains run until 8:00 p.m. The train routes showcase intricately crafted scenes of pollinators and their associated plants, all made from plant materials, including unique displays like a lemur pollinating a traveler’s tree flower and a gecko with a Trochetia flower. The Conservatory boasts poinsettias, holiday decor, and plant-made D.C. landmarks. Visitors can expect busier crowds during holidays and weekends and are advised to wear masks, maintain social distancing, and be cautious of varying terrains. Entry is free, but the train might not operate in adverse weather. Pollinators, vital for the reproduction of about 75% of flowering plants, are highlighted in this educational and festive showcase.
Georgetown GLOW
Address: 1041 Wisconsin Ave NW. Washington, DC 20007
Dates: December 1 – January 7
Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cost: Free
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
The 9th edition of GLOW, a free holiday light art experience, will illuminate Georgetown, DC’s oldest neighborhood, from December 1, 2023, to January 7, 2024. Every evening, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., public light art installations by national and international artists will be showcased in outdoor spots throughout the commercial district. Established in 2014, Georgetown GLOW is the only curated outdoor public light art event in the region and has become a cherished holiday tradition. Along with the captivating light displays, attendees can look forward to over 30 walking tours, a unique shopping night, a cocktail crawl, and other engaging programs. Specific details on the 2023 artists and artworks will be announced soon.
Artechouse DC
Address: 1238 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024
Dates: November 19 – January 8
Time: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Cost: $17 – $36
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
“Beyond the Light” is an immersive exhibition that melds art and science to explore the universe’s unseen depths. Developed in collaboration with NASA, ARTECHOUSE brings to life the vast data collected about our cosmos using state-of-the-art creative technologies. The centerpiece is a 26-minute cinematic journey showcasing the role of light in human discovery and technology, from Newton’s prism to the revelations of the James Webb Space Telescope. The experience is further enriched with six installations diving into topics like the moon, climate science, and the influence of NASA’s advancements on everyday tools. Utilizing AI-enhanced visuals, galactic data-driven music, and captivating space imagery, this exhibition is a blend of education and artistic expression, promising inspiration for all ages.
The National Christmas Tree
Address: 15th St NW &, E St NW, Washington, DC 20500
Dates: December 11
Time: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Cost: $69
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
The 2023 National Christmas Tree Lighting will be aired by CBS on December 15th. Viewers nationwide can enjoy and celebrate this festive tradition from their homes.
The National Menorah
Address: The Ellipse at the National Mall in Washington, D.C
Dates: December 7
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Cost: Free
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
The “Mendy Deren National Menorah Essay Contest” invites students across the U.S. to reflect on the significance of Chanukah for their generation. Winners not only earn national recognition but also the unique chance to read their essay at the National Menorah Lighting Ceremony. The event features performances by the Military Bands of the Military District of Washington, often joined by a renowned Jewish artist. The ceremony draws high-profile attendees, including the U.S. President, Vice President, and other prominent figures from the government and entertainment sectors. The celebration in Washington radiates festivity, encompassing music, food, entertainment, and the spotlight on the National Essay Winners, making it a central attraction for the community and beyond.
Downtown Holiday Market
Address: F St NW &, 8th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Dates: November 17 – December 23
Time: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Tuesday – Sunday)
Cost: Free
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
The 19th Annual Downtown Holiday Market will be held in Downtown Washington, DC, specifically centered at 8th and F Streets, NW. It will run daily from November 17 to December 23, between 12 p.m. and 8 p.m. However, the market will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, and also on Monday, December 4.
Christmas Holiday Lights Near Me in Virginia
Alexandria Boat Parade of Lights
Address: 901 E. Cary St. Suite 900. Richmond, VA 23219
Dates: December 2
Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Cost: Free
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
On December 2, 2023, Old Town Alexandria’s waterfront will host the 23rd Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. Beginning in the afternoon, festivities will begin at Waterfront Park, featuring a pop-up beer garden by Port City Brewing Company, along with food and various activities. The parade, starting at 5:30 p.m., will feature brightly lit boats cruising a mile of the Potomac River shoreline. This cherished community event is sponsored by Amazon and produced by Visit Alexandria, in partnership with the City of Alexandria, City Cruises Anchored by Hornblower, and the Old Dominion Boat Club. Details on participating boats and their themes will be announced soon.
Ice and Lights Winter Village at Cameron Run
Address: 4001 Eisenhower Ave, Alexandria, VA 22304
Dates: November 10 – January 7
Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cost: $30 – $75
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Experience the magic of winter at Cameron Run’s Ice & Lights Village. Skate under the stars in an outdoor rink surrounded by stunning light displays. Perfect for family photos and fun memories. Tickets range from Village-only to combined Village and Ice Skating access from November 17 to January 1. Daytime skating available on select dates. Limited capacity, so be sure to reserve in advance!
Bull Run Festival of Lights at Bull Run Regional Park
Address: 7700 Bull Run Dr, Centreville, VA 20121
Dates: November 10 – January 7
Time:
5:30 PM – 9:30 PM (Monday – Thursday)
5:30 PM – 10:00 PM (Friday – Sunday)
Cost: $30 – $75
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
The Bull Run Festival of Lights offers a 2.5-mile drive-through experience illuminated with festive holiday light displays. Visitors can enjoy the enchanting views from their cars, driving with headlights off and following the lights’ radiant path. The 2023 festival is a must-visit seasonal activity perfect for family and friends. For a more tranquil experience, it’s advised to avoid Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and the weeks immediately before and after Christmas, as these are peak times.
DC Winter Lantern Festival
Address: 8025 Galleria Dr, Queen, Tysons, Virginia 22102
Dates: November 24th
Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cost: $17.99 for kids and $29.99 for adults
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Starting November 24, 2023, step into a mesmerizing world illuminated by over 1000 handcrafted Chinese lanterns at Lerner TownSquare at Tysons II. This enchanting experience, crafted by seasoned artisans, is set to brighten your holiday season. Open Fridays through Sundays, with sessions between 5 pm to 10 pm, guests can embark on a 30-minute whimsical walk. It’s a family-friendly event, though those under 16 need adult supervision. The venue is ADA compliant, ensuring accessibility for all. For ticket prices, check the event’s calendar.
Meadowlark Botanical Garden’s Winter Walk of Lights
Address: 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct, Vienna, VA 22182
Dates: November 10 – December 7
Time: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Cost: $18 per individual
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights offers a radiant evening stroll through Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, shimmering with numerous lights showcasing nature, winter, and holiday-themed displays. The wheelchair and stroller-friendly half-mile paved trail lets visitors experience a twinkling garden landscape. Guests can enjoy warm beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic and end the evening by roasting marshmallows for s’mores. Now in its 12th year, the Winter Walk of Lights attracts over 110,000 visitors annually.
Holiday Lights on the Farm at Frying Pan
Address: 2709 West Ox Road. Herndon, VA 20171
Dates: November 27 – December 20
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Cost: $20 – $25
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Join Frying Pan Farm Park for a festive holiday celebration suitable for all ages. Enjoy wagon rides, indoor activities, delicious food, animal interactions, campfires, and a visit from Santa. Your pass includes a wagon ride, a trackless train ride, and carousel access for children under 12. Please note that walking on the wagon route is not allowed for safety reasons. Limited activity tickets may be available on the event day. Come with your family and experience the farm in a joyful holiday atmosphere.
Mount Vernon Christmas Illuminations
Address: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway Mount Vernon, Virginia 22121
Dates: December 15 – December 16
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Cost: $28 – $50 (For members) $36 – $60 (General Public)
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Join Mount Vernon’s Christmas Illuminations event! Take a mansion tour (5:30 p.m. – 7:20 p.m.) and admire the lantern-lit Historic Area, the Mansion in amber, and the Upper Garden and Greenhouse with blue and lavender lights. Enjoy holiday music, quotes, and greetings from General Washington. The night ends with fireworks over the Potomac River. Experience an 18th-century winter camp, carolers, and Aladdin the Camel. Shop at the Winter Market for period wares and crafts, savor food and holiday drinks from the Mount Vernon Inn Food Truck, get baked goods from Half Crown Bakehouse, and explore the Donald. W. Reynolds Museum & Education Center and The Shops at Mount Vernon.
Leesburg Christmas Light
Address: 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176
Dates: December 2
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Cost: Free
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
On December 2, 2023, the Town of Leesburg is set to light up the holiday season with a tree lighting ceremony at Town Green, 25 West Market Street, starting at 6:00 pm. Attendees can anticipate a festive atmosphere with lights, live music, holiday characters, and a sense of community togetherness. Earlier in the day, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and continuing December 3, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, a Holiday Fine Arts and Crafts Show will take place. This unique shopping experience boasts local artisans showcasing handmade items like candles, jewelry, and carved wood. Shoppers can find personalized gifts while enjoying free admission and parking.
GardenFest of Lights at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Address: 1800 Lakeside Avenue Richmond, Virginia 23228
Dates: November 20 – January 7
Time:
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Sunday – Tuesday)
9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Wednesday – Saturday)
Cost: Call for details
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
From November 20, 2023, to January 7, 2024, enjoy a festive tradition featuring millions of lights, botanical decorations, model trains, and more, with exclusive member previews from November 17-19. Children under 3 enter for free. Advance online-only tickets with specific arrival windows are mandatory, and popular times sell out fast. For added flexibility, a $10 Flex Add-On lets ticket holders reschedule their visit. The website offers language translations. Members should provide their details upon booking. Non-members are encouraged to explore membership for the best value.
WinterFest at King’s Dominion
Address: 16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, VA, 230475
Dates: November 25 – January 1
Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cost: $32.99 for adults and $19.99 for juniors
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
At Virginia’s WinterFest in Kings Dominion, visitors can immerse themselves in a festive winter wonderland adorned with millions of lights and captivating decorations. Highlights include a 300-foot-tall Christmas tree transformation of the Eiffel Tower and a vast ice-skating rink on International Street. Guests can enjoy live shows, indulge in holiday treats, partake in Christmas activities, and shop for unique gifts at festive stalls and artisan spots. It’s an ideal destination for creating cherished holiday memories with loved ones.
Holiday Walk of Lights at Neabsco Creek Boardwalk
Address: 15125 Blackburn Road Woodbridge, VA 22191
Dates: December 1st – December 30
Time: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Cost: Free
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
The Neabsco Creek Boardwalk is a scenic ¾-mile walkway crossing Neabsco Creek, providing visitors a view of wetlands rich in diverse birdlife including herons and mallards. Situated within Neabsco Regional Park in Woodbridge, the boardwalk forms part of the expansive 800-mile Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail. This ADA-compliant path connects historical sites like Rippon Lodge and Leesylvania Park, and features educational spots detailing local flora and fauna, highlighting the significance of the Potomac waterfront.
Hidden Farm Christmas Light
Address: 6745 Bull Run Post Office Rd, Centreville, Virginia 20120
Dates: November 26 – December 23
Time: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Cost: $10
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Maple Tree Farm Holiday Lights
Address: 8273 Maple Tree Lane, Warrenton, VA, 20187
Dates: November 25 – December 30
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Cost: $15 for adults and children under 2 are free
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
At Maple Tree Farm, experience the joys of every season. During the festive season, immerse yourself in a mesmerizing light trail, sipping on hot chocolate and humming to Christmas tunes. Meet lively holiday characters, marvel at the light shows, and warm up with a s’more by a crackling fire. A visit to Maple Tree Farm promises cherished memories for the whole family.
Christmas Holiday Lights Near Me in Maryland
Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens
Address: 1800 Glenallan Ave, Wheaton, MD, 20902
Dates: November 17 – December 31
Time: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Cost: $10
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Brookside Gardens becomes a captivating winter wonderland with the “Garden of Lights” display. Walk half a mile amidst dazzling lights and unique displays. Shop for seasonal items at the Gift Shop and enjoy hot chocolate and snacks. The event runs from November 17 to December 31, 2023. Tickets cost $10 for ages five and up, available online at Eventbrite.com starting October 10. Dress appropriately for outdoor weather.
Washington DC Temple Festival of Lights
Address: 9900 Stoneybrook Drive, Kensington, MD 20895
Dates: November 30 – January 2
Time: 4:45 PM – 9:00 PM
Cost: Free
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
The Washington DC Temple’s Festival of Lights is a radiant celebration with over 400,000 lights and ornately decorated Christmas Trees. Visitors can marvel at the Créche displays at the Visitors’ Center, showcasing nativities from across the globe. The center also hosts a series of complimentary holiday performances for everyone to enjoy. Specific details for the 2023 Festival of Lights celebrations are forthcoming. This Christmas, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints encourages everyone to embody the Christmas spirit by illuminating the lives of others. One unique way to spread kindness is through the Light the World Giving Machine, a service-centric vending machine situated at the Visitors’ Center, enabling individuals to give and uplift others in a special manner.
Watkins Regional Park Festival of Lights
Address: 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
Dates: November 25, 2023 – January 1, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cost: $10 – $30
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Celebrate the holiday season at Watkins Regional Park from November 25, 2023, to January 1, 2024, every evening between 5 and 10 pm. Secure your spot for just $10 online or $15 on-site for cars; there are deals for bigger vehicles too.
Before the official kickoff, gear up for a special biking evening on November 20, 2023, from 5 to 8 pm. At $5 a bike, it’s a steal, and the younger crowd (under 10) can pedal in for free, but make sure they’re registered.
Given the roaring success of last year’s bike event, it’s making a comeback! Navigate your way amidst twinkling lights and holiday cheer on your bike. Keep it safe with lights and helmets, and perhaps a sprinkle of holiday magic on your bike. With this bike-exclusive window, cars take a backseat. Experience winter in a way you’ve never done before!
Gaithersburg Winter Lights Festival
Address: 11950 Clopper Road, Gaithersburg, MD, 20878
Date: November 24 – December 31
Time:
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Sunday – Thursday)
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Friday – Saturday)
Cost: $15 – $30
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Get ready for a magical experience at the City’s Winter Lights Festival! From November 24 through December 31 (excluding December 25), Seneca Creek State Park will be transformed into a dazzling wonderland of lights. Take a 3.5-mile drive through the park, where you’ll be enchanted by over 450 illuminated displays and beautifully lit trees that create a mesmerizing nighttime spectacle.
ICE! At the Gaylord National
Address: 201 Waterfront St, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Dates: November 19 – December 31
Time: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Cost: $29.99 – $39.99
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
From November 19 to December 31, 2023, make unforgettable holiday memories at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, MD. Immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind winter wonderland featuring the enchanting “ICE!” exhibit, showcasing Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ in larger-than-life sculptures. Experience the thrill of zooming down frozen slides and walking through breathtaking tunnels. Dive into the Christmas spirit with a lineup of holiday events presented by Pepsi at Gaylord National. It’s a festive celebration you won’t want to miss!
Willow Oak Flower & Herb Farm North Pole Light Walk
Address: 8109 Telegraph Rd, Severn, MD, 21144
Dates: November 25 – December 24
Time: 4:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Cost: $10 for adults and $5 for children
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Embark on a self-guided journey to the North Pole and pay a visit to Santa himself! Wander through illuminated Christmas scenes along new trails, and don’t miss Polar Bear Central and the charming Gingerbread house. Step into Santa’s cabin as he prepares for his big night. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children, making it an affordable family outing. This event falls under the categories of Fairs & Festivals and Nature & Outdoor, offering a delightful ongoing holiday experience. General admission is $8 for adults and $5 for children. Get ready for a festive adventure the whole family will enjoy!
Light on the Bay at Sandy Point State Park
Address: 1100 E College Pkwy, Annapolis, MD 21409
Dates: November 19 – January 1
Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cost: $5 – $30
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Join the festivities at the 29th Lights on the Bay extravaganza at Sandy Point State Park, spanning November 19, 2023, to January 1, 2024. This season showcases a mix of classic holiday charm and Annapolis-centric visuals, including the animated sight of midshipmen in celebratory gestures. The event promises enjoyment for all ages, with intriguing scavenger hunts organized nightly for the young ones. And guess what? Santa himself plans to drop by on Thanksgiving! Conveniently positioned near the Bay Bridge.
Merriweather Symphony of Lights
Address: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia, MD, 21044
Dates: November 23 – January 1
Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cost: $25
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
The Symphony of Lights is a beloved holiday tradition at Merriweather Post Pavilion with over 300,000 dazzling lights. Tickets are $25 per vehicle, and it benefits HoCo General Hospital. No limos or buses allowed, and the event happens rain or snow. Enjoy a magical night of lights and festive fun!
Winter City Light
Address: 4501 Olney Laytonsville Rd, Olney, MD 20832
Dates: November 18 – December 30
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Cost: $25 – $40
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Experience Winter City Lights, the ultimate holiday wonderland with over 1 million twinkling lights across 18 acres. Enjoy a 1.5-mile trail, a giant programmable Christmas tree, a canopy of lights, snow tubing, delicious treats, and more. Bring your family and friends for a festive and memorable holiday night out! Tickets are limited, so book early.
Maryland Zoo Lights
Address: 1 Safari Pl, Baltimore, MD 21217
Dates: November 19 – January 2
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: Call for details.
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Experience the magic at Maryland Zoo in Baltimore as it lights up for the festive season, From November 19 to January 2, witness a transformation where shimmering lights take the shape of the Zoo’s cherished creatures. But the luminous display is just the tip of the iceberg! Dive into a roster of festive events: sip away at the BRRR Fest’s endless beer and wine offerings, relish food from diverse trucks, marvel at intricate ice carvings, and immerse in the seasonal tunes of holiday choirs. Plus, cherish Santa-themed weekends and special Hanukkah readings by Enoch Pratt Free Library.
Your delightful walks around the Zoo’s iconic grounds do more than just entertain. Recharge with warming hot cocoa and festive treats during your visit.
Seneca Creek State Park Winter Lights Festival
Address: 11950 Clopper Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Dates: November 24 – December 31
Time:
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Sunday – Thursday)
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Friday – Saturday)
Cost: $15 – $30
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Get ready for a spectacular holiday season at the City’s Winter Lights Festival! From November 24 to December 31 (closed on December 25), Seneca Creek State Park transforms into a magical wonderland of lights. Take a 3.5-mile drive through this enchanting setting, passing over 450 dazzling displays and beautifully lit trees that illuminate the night. Conveniently located at 11950 Clopper Road with easy access from I-270, this festival promises a festive and unforgettable experience for all.
Montgomery County Fairground Luminocity Festival
Address: Perry Pkwy, Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Dates: November 27 – January 2
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: $20
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
The LuminoCity Winter Lights Festival promises a radiant blend of creativity and luminance at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds in Gaithersburg. Drawing from global inspirations, LuminoCity turns imaginative ideas into brilliant art spectacles, introducing a fresh, immersive wonder each year. The event is scheduled from November 27 to January 2, opening its gates from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Tickets are priced at $20. Make sure not to miss this spellbinding display of lights and artistry.
The Washington Monument Lighting
Address: 20S Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21201
Dates: December 1
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: $6 adult and $4 child
Learn More: Get all the details HERE!
Join in the long-standing Baltimore holiday tradition of illuminating the historic Washington Monument on December 1, from 5-8pm. This cherished event features caroling, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere filled with holiday cheer. The evening culminates with a breathtaking fireworks display, officially marking the start of the holiday season. The Mount Vernon Place Conservancy, dedicated to preserving and caring for the monument and its surrounding park spaces, hosts this iconic celebration
Things to Bring to Your Christmas Light Display Outing
Heated Jacket or a Heated Vest
You should bring either a heated jacket or a heated vest along on your Christmas light display outing. A heated jacket or vest is a type of clothing that has heating elements built into it, which can be powered by a battery. These garments are designed to keep you warm in cold weather conditions and are especially useful when you’re spending time outdoors for extended periods of time.
If you’re looking for a heated jacket or vest, there are many options available online. You can find heated jackets and vests for both men and women, and they come in a variety of styles and colors.
For the parents
For the Kids
Hands Warmer
If you’re looking for a way to keep your hands warm during your Christmas light display outing, you might want to consider bringing along some hand warmers. Hand warmers are small, portable packets that can be activated to produce heat, which can help keep your hands warm and comfortable in cold weather conditions.
There are different types of hand warmers available, including catalytic, rechargeable, disposable, and long-lasting. Rechargeable hand warmers are battery-powered and can be slipped into gloves and pockets for warmth. They can be helpful for people who spend a lot of time outdoors in cold weather
Toe Warmers
Toe warmers are small, disposable heating pads that are designed to be worn on the toes inside a shoe or sock. They are used to provide warmth and comfort in cold weather conditions and are typically activated by removing a metal tab or by tearing open the packaging. There are many different types of toe warmers available, including air-activated and reusable electric toe warmers.
Disposable Urine Bag
A disposable urine bag is a simple plastic bag that’s designed to seal tightly against leakage, so an individual can urinate into it on the go. Often, the bag will have a product inside that turns the liquid urine into a gel, so it’s not as liable to spill.
Disposable urine bags are available in different types, including those that are designed for travel, camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. They can be used by both men and women and are typically made of polyethylene material.
HOT Coco or Coffee, Keep it HOT!
Hot cocoa or coffee can help keep you warm during a Christmas light display outing. When you drink a hot beverage, your body temperature increases, and your blood vessels dilate, allowing more blood to flow to the skin’s surface. This process helps to dissipate heat from your body, which makes you feel warmer.
In addition, hot drinks can help to increase your metabolic rate, which is the rate at which your body burns calories. This increase in metabolic rate can help to generate more heat in your body, which can help to keep you warm. However, it’s important to note that drinking hot beverages alone may not be enough to keep you warm in extremely cold. That’s why you should also wear appropriate clothing and accessories.
The DC, Maryland, and Virginia area offers an abundance of enchanting holiday experiences for those in search of a light show for Christmas. Whether you’re wondering where to see Christmas lights near you or craving the magic of xmas lights in DC, there are numerous options to choose from. For those seeking the convenience and comfort of a Christmas lights drive-through, these locations provide an exceptional and immersive experience.
When searching for the best Christmas lights and the most captivating places to see Christmas lights, you’ll find the DC, Maryland, and Virginia regions shining brightly with holiday spirit.
We hope this post helps you plan for the holidays! 🙂