Best Neighborhood Christmas Light Displays and Holiday Lights Near DC in Maryland and Northern Virginia

Submitted by Jennifer Marino... on

Take a stroll through the Marshall Pond Christmas Village in Burke, VA. Photo courtesy of Kristy Case, from the Marshall Pond Christmas Village Facebook page

The DC area is brimming with professional holiday lights drive-thrus and Christmas light displays that dazzle visitors of all ages. But sometimes, there's nothing better than loading the family into the car with hot chocolate, turning on holiday music, and driving around the neighborhood to see Christmas lights on houses. And the best part is, it's free!

Though DC itself offers a treasure trove of gorgeous holiday lights in public places, like Light Yards and Georgetown GLOW, we've found that the best neighborhoods to see Christmas light displays on houses are in the suburbs. Luckily, there are many neighborhoods in Maryland and Northern Virginia that get way into the holiday spirit. Many of them host animated light shows that are synchronized to music played through car radios, so families can stay warm and cozy inside their vehicles.

Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Maryland and Northern Virginia to see over-the-top neighborhood Christmas lights. For more holiday fun, check out our Christmas Activities and Holiday Guide for DC Kids.

Tampa with Kids: 20 Best Things to Do in Tampa, Florida

Submitted by Amy Williams on

Zoo Tampa has lush tropical exhibits that will leave visitors in awe. Photo courtesy of the zoo

It's no secret that Florida is a popular tourist destination, and Tampa has become one of the best places for families. From beautiful beaches to thrilling theme parks, there’s no shortage of fun activities for kids in the Tampa Bay area.

While the city of Tampa is smaller than most people think, the Tampa Bay area spans several cities and has everything you need for an incredible family vacation. Just a few minutes from parks, beaches, wildlife preserves, and shopping, there's something for everyone in Tampa. And with major attractions like Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, The Florida Aquarium, and Adventure Island, Tampa, Florida is perfect for families of all ages and interests.

32 Free Holiday and Christmas Events in Westchester and the Hudson Valley for Kids

Submitted by Katherine Dhurandhar on

The Orange County Arboretum's Holiday Lights in Bloom is a charming and free light display. Photo courtesy of the arboretum

Looking for FREE Christmas events in Westchester and the Hudson Valley? Read on for dozens of options. 

From craft-making to stage performances, community festivities, and light shows, we've got the goods on free holiday events in Westchester and the Hudson Valley. Whether you plan to attend a tree-lighting celebration or see Santa land by helicopter, we've compiled lots of no-cost ways to celebrate the season below. 

We've captured many more ways to savor the season in our Holiday Guide, where you'll find more holiday resources, like our roundup of Polar Express and Christmas train rides. 

34 Free Holiday and Christmas Events on Long Island for Kids

Jaime Sumersille's picture Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on

The animated Christmas story at Hicks Nurseries features Santa and his elves as they prepare for the big day. Photo courtesy of Hicks Nurseries

Looking for FREE Christmas events on Long Island? Read on for tons of great options.

From Christmas tree and menorah lighting ceremonies to visits with Santa and holiday light displays, we’ve put together a list of FREE things to do at Christmas and the holidays with your kids. These events will keep your family entertained and you'll still be able to afford those last-minute gifts.

Find all our top picks for holiday fun in our Long Island Christmas Guide. And check out our constantly updated Family Activity Calendar for even more fun things to do.

31 Free Holiday and Christmas Events in New Jersey for Kids

Submitted by Laurie Rein on

It costs nothing to take in the display at Fanwood's Famous Christmas House, which boasts a 30,000-light display. Photo courtesy of Fanwood's Famous Christmas House

Looking for FREE Christmas events in New Jersey? Read on for dozens of great options. 

It's the most wonderful—and expensive—time of the year. While big-budget gifts take a toll on your wallet, our gift to you is this list of holiday events and FREE Christmas activities in New Jersey that don't cost a penny. In a season where finances may be tight, treat the family to FREE and fun holiday festivities for the kids across New Jersey, including Christmas light shows and small-town celebrations in areas like New Brunswick. 

Mark your calendars with these 30+ no-cost holiday events that take place nearly every day of the season. For more seasonal fun, don't miss our Guide to Holiday and Christmas Events for New Jersey Families. 

Top Places to See Santa in San Francisco

Submitted by Sandra Lee on

Meet Santa amid dazzling lights. Photo courtesy of Enchant Christmas

Photos with Santa in San Francisco come in all places and styles at iconic Bay Area landmarks, from Ghirardelli Square to Filoli Gardens. From the South Bay to the North Bay (and everywhere in between), there are endless places to meet Santa in San Francisco with families, kids, and pets. Take a classic photo or sit down with the big man in red for breakfast with plates piled high with pancakes and orange juice. 

And let's not forget about Mrs. Claus, the lady behind the big red suit making everything happen. There are holiday events in the Bay Area where you can decorate cookies and sip tea with her. Scroll below for the most unique spots in the Bay Area to see Santa in San Francisco. 

For more holiday festivities in San Francisco and the Bay Area, check out our Christmas Activities Holiday Guide for San Francisco Bay Area Kids, which includes the Must Do Christmas Events and Holiday Events in San Francisco, where to see the best SF holiday lights, and Polar Express train rides near San Francisco that will make the holiday season even more magical. 

Best Places to See Giant Redwoods in California: A Family Travel Guide

Submitted by Gina Ragland on

See giant redwood trees is an experience every family should have.

Seeing California redwood trees should be on every family's travel bucket list. These towering trees, many dating back thousands of years, are truly awe-inspiring. There are many places throughout Northern California where families can seek a serene escape into the heart of nature while viewing these colossal redwoods.

Ancient old-growth redwoods can be found in national parks such as Redwood National Park and Muir Woods, as well as in several other state and regional parks. Most of them have a small vehicle fee to enter, but some are free. All of them provide family-friendly hiking trails and breathtaking views, and some have extra activities for kids like playgrounds and museums.

Here are our favorite places to see redwood trees in California. For more outdoor adventures in the Golden State, from exploring Lake Tahoe to road tripping through the Sierra Nevada, check out our California Family Travel Guide.

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