T’is the season…for cozy nights by the fire, warm cider, and festive holiday lights! So gather your loved ones, bundle up, and choose one (or more) of the best light displays the DMV has to offer:
DC
- Zoo lights at the National Zoo: The National Zoo will be aglow in lights and holiday cheer starting November 24 until December 30. They will have thousands of lights, live music, and winter treats. They typically release tickets 2 weeks before, 1 week before, 1 day before, and day of (as they are available) so keep checking if you don’t see any for your dates!
- US Botanic Garden Holiday Display: The US Botanic Garden will once again have its popular train and landmark display up between November 23, 2023 and January 1, 2024. The theme this year is “Season’s Greenings,” showcasing the beauty of seasonal flora. Visitors can explore enchanting displays of poinsettias, evergreens, and other holiday plants in a vibrant and visually stunning setting. The event provides an immersive experience, inviting attendees to enjoy the magic of the holiday season through the diverse and meticulously arranged botanical exhibits.
- The National Christmas Tree & Menorah: Now through January 1 you can visit the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse. What you may not know is that it is surrounded by 58 trees from US states, territories, and schools managed by the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Indian Education and the Department of Defense Education Activity. The Menorah will be lit on December 7th for the 1st Night of Chanukah.
- Georgetown Glow: Georgetown GLOW, now in its 9th edition, will illuminate the Georgetown commercial district from December 1, 2023, to January 7, 2024, showcasing commissioned works by national and international artists. As the region’s only free curated outdoor public light art experience, GLOW transforms DC’s oldest neighborhood into a mesmerizing display of innovative light installations. The event, established in 2014, offers more than 30 walking tours, a special shopping night, cocktail crawl, and various other engaging activities alongside its captivating light art displays.
Northern Virginia
- Meadowlark Botanical Garden’s Winter Walk of Lights: Now in its 12th year, the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens are transformed into an enchanting garden trail illuminated by countless sparkling lights. Visitors can enjoy an evening walk along the wheelchair and stroller-accessible half-mile paved trail, featuring lighted trees and displays with nature, winter, and holiday themes.
- Bull Run Festival of Lights: Running until just after New Year’s Day, this light display offers a dazzling 2.5-mile drive-through experience. Families and friends can enjoy the festive spectacle by driving the illuminated route, turning off headlights to fully immerse in the magical glow. To beat the crowds, it’s recommended to attend on weekdays, as Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and the weeks surrounding Christmas are the busiest times.
- Mount Vernon by Candlelight and Christmas Illuminations: This festive event held at George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate offers visitors a unique glimpse into 18th-century holiday traditions, featuring the iconic mansion adorned with candlelight, showcasing period decorations and providing a historical perspective on how the Washingtons celebrated Christmas. Guests can immerse themselves in the ambiance of the holiday season through guided tours, musical performances, and encounters with historical characters, making it a delightful and educational experience for all.
- Holidays in Leesburg: This coming Saturday, enjoy the holiday parade in Downtown Leesburg. If you cannot make that event, the lights in the old town area are lovely. Enjoy a walk around town and pick up some gifts in the shops and a bite to eat at one of the great restaurants.
- Winter Lantern Festival: This dazzling celebration features larger-than-life lantern displays and immersive experiences set against the city’s enchanting landscape. Visitors can explore a magical world of intricate lantern sculptures, cultural performances, and interactive exhibits, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. The festival in Tyson’s aims to bring together diverse communities to celebrate the winter season with breathtaking artistry and cultural festivities.
Maryland
- Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens: Hosted by Montgomery Parks, this dazzling winter attraction features a spectacular display of over one million colorful lights. Visitors can stroll through enchanting garden landscapes adorned with themed light installations, including a flowing stream of lights and a butterfly conservatory. This festive event offers a magical experience for families, creating a winter wonderland within the beautiful surroundings of Brookside Gardens.
- Holiday Tree Light Show at National Harbor: This annual festive event transforms the waterfront destination into a winter wonderland. Featuring enchanting holiday decorations, twinkling lights, and a festive atmosphere, the event offers visitors a magical experience. Attendees can enjoy a variety of seasonal activities, including holiday shopping, dazzling light displays, visits with Santa, and a captivating short light show on the 60-foot tree adorned with over 2 million lights.
- Watkins Regional Park Festival of Lights: The event showcases a dazzling display of holiday lights and decorations, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors of all ages. Attendees can enjoy a variety of seasonal activities, including light shows, music, and interactive exhibits, making it a joyful and family-friendly celebration during the holiday season
- Sailing Through the Winter Solstice: This event, hosted by Visit Frederick, invites attendees to experience the joy of the holidays with a boat parade on Carroll Creek, featuring creatively decorated and illuminated boats. The festive atmosphere is enhanced with holiday music, entertainment, and a vibrant community gathering, making it a delightful winter celebration in downtown Frederick.
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