Best Holiday Lights Drive-Thrus and Christmas Light Shows in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia

Enjoy snow every night at Winter City Lights. Photo by Kyle Lanzer courtesy of the Winter City Lights .event.
Enjoy snow every night at Winter City Lights. Photo by Kyle Lanzer courtesy of the Winter City Lights .event.
11/24/23 - By Jennifer Swope

The DC area is always merry and bright with so many Christmas light shows, holiday lights drive-thrus, and other festive displays. I know I'm having trouble selecting the one (or three) my family will visit because they're all so good.

Light Yards is always a fun and quick stop, especially when you get to swing on the bells as they light up. For years, I've been wanting to check out the Holiday Boat Parade which is visible from both The Wharf and Alexandria. And then there are the tree and menorah lightings, neighborhood displays, and twinkles all over the area.

Below I've compiled 29 amazing Christmas light shows, holiday lights drive-thrus, and tree and menorah lightings around the DC area.

While you're in a festive mood, check out our Christmas Activities and Holiday Guide for DC Kids. And remember, we are constantly updating our events calendar with more Christmas events and holiday activities all over the DC area. Whatever you celebrate, we're wishing you all the wonders of the season!

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Places featured in this article:


Lerner Town Square at Tysons II

Great Falls Village Centre

Brown's Chapel Recreation Area

Old Town Alexandria Waterfront