The holiday season is here, and there is no better way to soak up the festive spirit than by exploring dazzling light displays! From sparkling walking trails to elaborate professional installations, these shining sights bring joy to all ages and are perfect for creating lasting memories. Whether you are looking for a fun family outing, a romantic evening, or inspiration for your own decorations, we have rounded up a few of the best spots to see holiday lights this season. Get ready to bundle up, grab some cocoa, and enjoy the magic of the season!

1. Winterfest of Lights

Northside Park, 125th Street Bayside, Ocean City MD

https://www.ococean.com/winterfest/

Step into a winter wonderland at the breathtaking 58-acre Northside Park, where the holiday magic comes to life! The 2024 season is set to be the most enchanting yet, with even more lights and surprises in store. Stroll through thousands of dazzling holiday lights and animated displays, sip on hot chocolate, snap a photo with Santa, and explore the charming gift shop for the perfect keepsake. This unforgettable experience is sure to spark joy and create lasting memories for all ages!

 

2. Merriweather Symphony of Lights

10475 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia MD

https://www.merriweatherlights.com/

For over 25 years, the Symphony of Lights has delighted Howard County families and visitors, becoming a cherished holiday tradition. Nestled in the historic Merriweather Post Pavilion, this spectacular display features over 300,000 sparkling bulbs bringing larger-than-life animated and stationary holiday scenes to life. With new lights added each year, this magical experience offers something fresh and exciting, ensuring your visit is an unforgettable part of the season!

 

3. ZooLights

3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington DC

https://nationalzoo.si.edu/visit/events/zoolights

This holiday season, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo comes alive with the magic of ZooLights, transforming into an enchanting winter wonderland! Now in its 16th year, this annual celebration invites visitors to stroll along festive pathways and experience dazzling immersive displays. Be captivated by glowing lantern animals in their illuminated habitats, enjoy nightly live musical performances, hop aboard the Conservation Carousel, or holiday train, and indulge in seasonal treats. Do not forget to pick up unique gifts at the Zoo’s gift shops! While the light displays take center stage, the Zoo’s animal exhibits will be closed, giving the animals a peaceful night’s rest.

 

4. Annmarie Garden In Lights

13470 Dowell Road, Solomons MD

https://www.annmariegarden.org/

This holiday favorite transforms the Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center into a radiant wonderland, filled with glowing light sculptures, mesmerizing installations, and picture-perfect moments around every turn. Enjoy dazzling lights, festive exhibits, holiday shopping, delicious bites from food trucks, and nightly activities and entertainment that bring the holiday spirit to life. It’s an unforgettable experience for all ages!

 

5. Bull Run Festival of Lights

7700 Bull Run Drive, Centreville VA

https://www.novaparks.com/events/bull-run-festival-of-lights

From November through early January, the Bull Run Festival of Lights offers a dazzling holiday experience like no other! This 2.5-mile drive-through display features an enchanting array of holiday lights that you can enjoy from the comfort of your car. Simply turn off your headlights and let the magical glow guide your way. The 2024 Bull Run Festival of Lights promises to be the season’s brightest and most memorable activity for families and friends alike.

 

6. Meadowlark Walk of Lights

9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna VA

https://www.novaparks.com/events/winter-walk-of-lights

Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights invites you to stroll through an enchanting garden trail illuminated by thousands of sparkling lights. Set against the beauty of Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, the half-mile paved trail features lighted trees and displays that celebrate nature, winter, and the holiday season. The trail is fully accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers, making it perfect for everyone to enjoy. As you wander through the glowing displays, warm up with a cozy hot beverage (with or without spirits) and end your visit by roasting marshmallows for the perfect s’mores treat.

 

7. Festival of Lights

1130 Largo Road, Upper Marlboro MD

https://www.pgparks.com/event_list/festival-of-lights

Add some sparkle to your holiday season at this breathtaking drive-through event, featuring over 2.5 million lights illuminating the park! Be sure to catch the show-stopping, 54-foot LED musical tree — it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

 

8. Lights on the Bay

1100 East College Parkway, Annapolis MD

https://www.lightsonthebaymd.org/

Prepare for a holiday tradition that brings joy, wonder, and plenty of fun — all while supporting the SPCA! Bring your friends, family, and furry companions for an unforgettable evening filled with twinkling lights, festive cheer, and the heartwarming joy of giving back, along with a magical drive along the Chesapeake Bay.

 

As you set out to explore these breathtaking holiday light displays, we hope you create unforgettable memories with your loved ones and enjoy the magic of the season. Whether you're wandering through enchanted gardens, driving through glittering pathways, or sipping cocoa under the stars, there’s something truly special about experiencing these festive moments. The Scott Smolen Team wishes you a very Happy Holiday Season filled with joy, warmth, and wonder. If you're thinking about making a move this season or in the new year, we’re here to help!