• Bull Run Festival of Lights

    Bull Run Regional Park 7700 Bull Run Drive, Centreville, VA, United States

    (VA) (NOVA Parks) Every year from November until just after New Year’s Day, you can experience the Bull Run Festival of Lights, 2.5 miles illuminated by holiday light displays. Drive the festival route from the comfort of your car. This year, don't miss the carnival at the end of your drive for holiday shopping, a petting zoo, and more festive ...

    $32 – $80
  • Zoo Lights

    Smithsonian's National Zoo 3001 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, United States

    (DC) (Smithsonian National Zoo) Celebrate the holidays at ZooLights! Enjoy twinkling lights and a festive atmosphere as this beloved winter classic returns to the Smithsonian's National Zoo. Journey through magical displays of glowing animal lanterns, watch live musical performances, sip hot cocoa and other festive treats, and explore the Zoo under the dazzling glow of one million environmentally-friendly LED lights. ZooLights ...

    Free – $9
  • Garden of Lights at Brookside

    Brookside Gardens 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton, MD, United States

    (MD) (Montgomery Parks) Let the magic begin! Tickets are now on sale for Brookside Gardens’ dazzling Garden of Lights — where winter nights sparkle with more than a million twinkling lights. The Garden of Lights display transforms Brookside Gardens into a magical winter wonderland. Stroll through the one-half mile, outdoor, walk-through exhibit and enjoy the twinkling lights and glimmering one-of-a-kind ...

    $16 – $19
  • Solstice Celebration Hike

    Widewater State Park 101 Widewater State Park Road, Stafford, MD, United States

    (VA) (Nature Forward) The first day of winter is arriving. Whether you call this astronomical event the shortest day – or the longest night – of the year, it’s a good occasion to pause the bustle of daily life and join fellow nature lovers on a hike in a beautiful place! Our outing starts at the Widewater area along the ...

    $35 – $49
  • Nocturnal Animal Hike

    Long Branch Nature Center & Park 625 S Carlin Springs Rd, Arlington, VA, United States

    (VA) (Arlington Parks) Learn about the animals active at night (nocturnal) and try to find some! There will be a short introductory presentation in the nature center followed by a hike outside around the park. We will stay on the walking paths; dress for the weather. Families.

    $7
  • Search for Santa’s Critters

    Potomac Overlook Regional Park 2845 N. Marcey Road, Arlington, VA, United States

    (VA) (NOVA Parks) Santa’s animal friends are lost in the park and need rescuing! Join this festive scavenger hunt to locate the critters so they can help Santa deliver candy and treats in time for the holidays! This event is appropriate for families and children of all ages.

    $5
  • Winter Wonderland at Burke Lake

    Burke Lake Park 7315 Ox Rd, Fairfax Station, VA, United States

    (VA) (Fairfax County Parks) All aboard the Holiday Express! Climb on for a train ride, spin around the Carolers Carousel, play a round of Gingerbread Man Golf or cozy up by the fire to make s’mores. Celebrate the season with family fun, a visit with Santa, hot chocolate and candy canes.

    $20 – $25
  • Winter Solstice Nature Therapy

    Meadowlark Botanical Gardens 9750 Meadowlark Gardens, Vienna, VA, United States

    (VA) (NOVA Parks) Enjoy a grounding and revitalizing experience among the serene landscape of Meadowlark Botanical Gardens as the earth settles into winter. This restorative journey blends mindful movement with nature therapy to support both stability and renewal. Through gentle movement, guided forest immersion, and sensory awareness, connect with the steady presence of the earth below us while embracing the ...

    $80