As the winter chill sets in, the Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) region comes alive with dazzling displays of holiday lights, transforming the area into a winter wonderland. From festive neighborhoods to botanical gardens aglow with millions of twinkling lights, the DMV offers a plethora of enchanting destinations to experience the magic of the season. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a tour of the best places to witness the stunning winter lights in the DMV.
1. ZooLights at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, Washington D.C.
During the holiday season, the National Zoo in Washington D.C. becomes a sparkling spectacle with its annual ZooLights event. Visitors can wander through the zoo’s grounds adorned with over 500,000 environmentally friendly LED lights, creating a magical winter wonderland. In addition to the mesmerizing light displays, guests can enjoy live musical performances, tasty holiday treats, and even meet some of the zoo’s resident animals. https://nationalzoo.si.edu/visit/events/zoolights
2. Brookside Gardens Garden of Lights, Wheaton, Maryland
Located in Montgomery County, Maryland, Brookside Gardens hosts the Garden of Lights, a breathtaking outdoor light display that features over one million twinkling lights. Visitors can stroll through the gardens’ pathways adorned with colorful light sculptures, animated displays, and a dazzling light tunnel. This family-friendly event also offers model trains, musical performances, and hot beverages to keep guests warm as they immerse themselves in the holiday spirit. https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/brookside-gardens/special-events/garden-of-lights/
3. The Miracle on 34th Street, Baltimore, Maryland
For over 70 years, the residents of 34th Street in the Hampden neighborhood of Baltimore have been transforming their homes into mesmerizing displays of holiday lights and decorations. Known as “The Miracle on 34th Street,” this beloved tradition draws visitors from near and far to witness the extravagant light displays, including twinkling reindeer, sparkling angels, and even a light-up hubcap Christmas tree. Walking down this festive street is a heartwarming experience that captures the true essence of community spirit during the holiday season. https://www.christmasstreet.com/
4. Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, Virginia
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens hosts the Winter Walk of Lights, an enchanting outdoor light display that takes visitors on a half-mile stroll through illuminated gardens, sparkling lakes, and whimsical holiday scenes. With over 500,000 LED lights and animated displays, this event offers a magical experience for all ages. Guests can also warm up with hot drinks and s’mores by the fire pit, adding to the cozy ambiance of the winter evenings. https://www.novaparks.com/events/winter-walk-of-lights
5. Winter Lights at Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg, Maryland
Experience the magic of the holiday season at Seneca Creek State Park’s Winter Lights Festival in Gaithersburg, Maryland. As you drive through the park’s enchanting winter wonderland, you’ll be greeted by over 450 illuminated displays and 65 animated vignettes that bring the spirit of the season to life. From whimsical characters and sparkling snowflakes to larger-than-life ornaments and themed landscapes, the park’s dazzling light displays create a captivating spectacle that captures the imagination and fills visitors with holiday joy. With the park’s sparkling lake as a stunning backdrop, the Winter Lights at Seneca Creek State Park offer a truly enchanting experience that delights guests of all ages and ignites the holiday spirit in all who attend. https://www.gaithersburgmd.gov/recreation/special-events/winter-lights-festival
6. Georgetown Glow, Washington D.C.
Georgetown Glow is an outdoor public light art exhibition that takes place in the historic neighborhood of Georgetown in D.C. Each year, the event showcases contemporary light art installations created by local and international artists, illuminating the streets and alleyways of Georgetown. Visitors can embark on a self-guided walking tour to discover the dazzling light displays, which often incorporate interactive elements and innovative use of light and technology. https://www.georgetownglowdc.com/
The DMV region offers a multitude of captivating destinations to experience the beauty and wonder of winter lights during the holiday season. Whether you’re exploring a zoo aglow with festive displays, strolling through botanical gardens adorned with millions of lights, or marveling at the creativity of light art installations, the DMV has something for everyone to enjoy. So bundle up, embark on a magical journey, and let the lights guide you into the heart of winter enchantment!