A BusyBoyMomChronicles Family Guide

The holiday season is one of the best times to get out as a family and enjoy some magic. Twinkling lights, festive music, and sparkling decorations make winter evenings feel cozy and joyful. Whether you want to stroll through a garden glowing with lights, take a drive through a dazzling display, or combine holiday fun with skating and treats, there’s something for everyone in the DMV area.

This guide highlights 15 must-see Christmas light experiences that families with kids will love — and includes tips to make your outings smooth and stress-free.

The 15 Must-See Christmas Light Displays

1. Brookside Gardens – Garden of Lights (Wheaton, MD)

Walk through a garden transformed into a magical holiday world. Twinkling lights wrap around trees, illuminating flower displays and whimsical pathways. Kids love the tunnels of light, and adults will enjoy the peaceful evening stroll. Strollers are welcome, making it perfect for families with toddlers.

2. Watkins Regional Park – Winter Festival of Lights (Upper Marlboro, MD)

This is a classic drive-through lights show with colorful, animated displays. From candy canes to glowing reindeer, kids will be amazed as they ride through. You can stay cozy in the car, sip cocoa, and enjoy the holiday magic without braving the cold for too long.

3. National Harbor – Christmas Tree & Nightly Light Show (Oxon Hill, MD)

The giant Christmas tree at National Harbor is a centerpiece of the season. Synchronized music and lights bring it to life nightly. Add the waterfront ambiance, festive decorations, and nearby restaurants, and you have a perfect family-friendly outing.

4. Bull Run Festival of Lights (Centreville, VA)

One of the region’s largest drive-through experiences, Bull Run dazzles with millions of lights, themed tunnels, and holiday characters. Don’t forget to stop at the Holiday Village for treats, souvenirs, and photo opportunities.

5. Symphony of Lights (Columbia, MD)

This Maryland favorite features classic holiday scenes, colorful displays, and occasional walk-through nights. It’s perfect for a short, charming holiday outing with younger children.

6. ZooLights – Smithsonian National Zoo (Washington, DC)

The zoo transforms into a glowing wonderland with illuminated animals, sparkling trees, and holiday music. Families love strolling through paths filled with light sculptures. Reservation passes are required, so plan ahead.

7. Lights on the Bay (Sandy Point State Park, MD)

Take a scenic drive along the waterfront and enjoy Chesapeake-themed light displays. Lighthouses, sailboats, and aquatic creatures sparkle in the night, making it a peaceful, magical experience for families.

8. Winter City Lights (Olney, MD)

An immersive walk-through experience featuring enormous light tunnels, themed villages, fire pits, and photo opportunities. It’s best for families prepared for a bit of walking and older kids who can take it all in.

9. Winter Wonderfest (Nationals Park – Washington, DC)

A full holiday spectacle with slides, trains, tubing, Northern lights inspired show, and so much more. Perfect for families wanting a multi-hour festive outing. Don’t forget your camera for all the oversized decorations.

10. Homestead Gardens Christmas Lights (Davidsonville, MD)

A cozy indoor/outdoor display featuring trains, decorated trees, and ornaments. It’s great for younger children or multi-generational family visits who want a warm, charming experience.

11. Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights (Vienna, VA)

A botanical garden transformed into a sparkling holiday forest with illuminated animals, flowers, and whimsical paths. Perfect for a walk with toddlers or capturing Instagram-worthy family photos.

12. Downtown DC Holiday Lights (CityCenter DC & Surrounding Areas)

A quick, free, and photogenic option. Oversized ornaments, sparkling trees, and modern holiday décor make it easy to enjoy a festive walk or pop in for dinner nearby.

13. Annmarie Garden In Lights (Solomons, MD)

This garden features artistic, handmade light sculptures, creative themed sections, and beautiful walking paths. A more unique, artistic light display that both kids and adults will love.

14. Ice & Lights – Winter Village at Cameron Run (Alexandria, VA)

A walk-through holiday village plus ice skating. Features include colorful light displays, s’mores, hot drinks, and festive photo spots. Tickets for skating are separate, so plan ahead and dress in layers for outdoor fun.

15. ZooLights – National Museum of Natural History (Washington, DC)

A smaller, festive walk-through perfect for families with toddlers or younger kids who want a quick, magical stop in the city.

Extra Tips for Ice & Lights and ZooLights

• Buy tickets early; both attractions can sell out quickly.

• Dress in warm layers and shoes with good traction for walking and skating.

• Plan to arrive early for best photo spots and shorter lines.

• Take photos at the beginning of the walk-throughs for the happiest expressions.

• Consider bringing a power bank — lights and photos drain phone batteries fast.

• Set a meeting spot if older kids want to explore ahead.

Tips for Parents Visiting Christmas Light Shows With Kids

Visiting holiday lights with children can be magical — but it can also be overwhelming. Here’s how to make it fun for everyone:

• Go on Weeknights – Crowds are smaller, parking is easier, and kids are less likely to get tired or overstimulated.

• Dress Warmly – Layers, hats, gloves, and blankets are essential. Even drive-through events benefit from cozy kids.

• Pack a “Holiday Kit” – Include snacks, warm drinks, wipes, glow sticks, a phone charger, and extra socks.

• Pajamas Are Okay for Drive-Throughs – Keeps kids comfortable and cozy while they enjoy the ride.

• Take Photos Early – Capture happy faces before energy dips or kids get impatient.

• Bring a Stroller or Wagon – For long walk-through displays, little legs may need a rest.

• Set Expectations – Tell kids how long you’ll stay, what treats are allowed, and if Santa is there.

• Plan Around Bedtime – Leave before everyone reaches meltdown mode.

• Bathroom Breaks Before You Go – Especially important for drive-through displays.

• Bring Cash – Smaller vendors may not accept cards.

  
  

Download Your FREE Christmas Lights Guide + Checklist

Make your holiday adventures simple! Our BusyBoyMomChronicles Christmas Lights Guide