Bull Run Festival of Lights (Centreville, VA)
This ticketed, drive-through event is a Northern Virginia classic and the best part of all? You can experience it all from the comfort of your heated car. The multi-colored holiday light displays feature an array of exciting characters and almost give the vibes of Mario Kart’s Rainbow Road. Add the song “Jingle Bell Rock” and a to-go mug of hot cocoa, and you’ve created a core memory. If you’d like to stretch your legs or buy a tasty treat (funnel cake, anyone?) be sure to check out the carnival at the end of the light show. Buy tickets online for $10 off.

Meadowlark Walk of Lights (Vienna, VA)
If you’d prefer seeing lights up close, bundle up and check out Meadowlark Botanical Gardens Walk of Lights. This timed, ticketed event features a dressed-up version of the lovely gardens with a fun, colorful holiday twist that kids will surely enjoy. This is a dog-friendly event, so don’t feel like Fido has to miss out on the fun–just be sure to account for him with a dog ticket!

Lights on the Bay (Annapolis, MD)
This two-mile drive along the bay in Sandy Point State Park features over 70 animated and stationary light displays. Enjoy the Chesapeake Bay breeze and a view of the Bay Bridge in the background. The proceeds benefit the SPCA of Maryland, and there are even a few exciting Lights & Leashes events, where you can enjoy the lights while walking with your pet. There are kiosks where you can buy snacks for the ride like popcorn, and when it’s going to a good cause–why not treat yourself, too?

ZooLights (Washington, DC)
The 16th annual Zoo Lights is sure to be a hit for all members of the family. Check out illuminated lantern animals, walk down rainbow light displays, and jam out to musical performances. The kids will love a ride on the Conservation Carousel or train, and don’t forget to check out a mouth-watering array of seasonal treats! Please note: no actual animals will be featured during ZooLights, as they are required to get a full night’s rest. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are $6 for all guests over 2.


Holiday Walk of Lights at Neabsco Regional Park (Woodbridge, VA)
The third annual iteration of this magnificent event is astonishingly free for all patrons! Revel in quiet nature as you see this .625-mile boardwalk lit up with holiday figures. To make parking a cinch, take the shuttle from Rippon Middle School. Some nights have an adjacent holiday market, carolers, or even holiday characters that children will enjoy meeting in person. The walk is stroller, wheelchair, and pet-friendly, so bring the whole family.


While you’re enjoying the Yuletide traditions and rocking around the light-up Christmas tree, be sure to check out the holiday markets in the area as well!