Best Places to see Holiday Lights in Northern VA

Looking for fun, low-cost ways to get out and enjoy the holiday season in Northern Virginia? Load up the car with your family and friends and set out on one of these great holiday light tours! With hot cocoa in hand, you’ll get to admire the twinkling, colorful lights in some of the area’s best displays. 

Bull Run Festival of Lights – November 22 – January 1

This beloved holiday tradition features 2.5 miles of festive light displays that visitors can drive through, plus a holiday village, a carnival and photos with Santa himself. 

Chantilly Festival of Lights Hayride and Walk – November 17 – January 5

If you want to take your holiday stroll outdoors, check out this holiday hayride at  Amazing Farm Fun in Chantilly. It features an incredible light display on a real working farm, as well as a bonfire with s’mores and hot cocoa at the end. Tickets start at $12.95.  

Zoo Lights at National Zoo – November 23 – January 1

This annual event transforms the National Zoo into a winter wonderland full of live music, light shows, a gingerbread village and much more. 

 Meadowlark Winter Walk of Lights – November 9 – January 6

The Meadowlark Botanical Gardens are decorated with holiday lights around every turn during this all-ages holiday event. The half-mile walk allows visitors to explore areas like Lakeside Lights, the Fountain of Lights, and the Holiday Nature Walk, plus roast marshmallows around a cozy fire.