Still nervous about crowds? Almost all of these holiday lights displays are offering a drive-thru option.
The holidays are finally here, and that means it's time to see some Christmas lights! Reduced COVID restrictions are making it possible for many of the area's popular light displays to make a return. From Christmas Street in Hampden to the Winter Lights Festival in Gaithersburg, there are many great places where you can view the holiday lights in Maryland this year.
Miracle on 34th Street in Hampden
Closed last year due to COVID, this Baltimore tradition will be turning the lights back on for 2021. Inspired by the classic film Miracle on 34th Street, the homes on 34th street in Hampden decorate for the season and invite visitors to enjoy the lights and festive displays. The decorations are best seen on foot, so get there early to secure a parking spot. Miracle on 34th street is open from November 27 through New Year’s Eve.
Zoo Lights at the Baltimore Zoo
With over 100,000 led lights and more than 50 displays, Zoo Lights will leave everyone in your party "oohing" and "aahing!" There are two options for visitors, a drive-thru or walking tour. The drive-thru option is only available Wednesday and Thursday and costs $33 per car. Friday through Sunday, you enjoy the lights on foot and ride on the train and carousel for free. Visitors can also purchase snacks and hot chocolate. Tickets must be purchased ahead of your visit and cost $28 per person, and children under two are free.
Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens
Brookside Garden’s Garden of Lights in Wheaton is one of the most popular holiday lights attractions in the state. Each year the 50-acre park is covered with LED lights highlighting the natural features within the park. The display is a walk-through only and guests enter on a timed system. Tickets are $10 per person (children under three are free) and must be purchased through Eventbrite.
Courtesy Merriweather Post Pavilion, Facebook
Merriweather Symphony of Lights at Merriweather Post Pavilion
Located in Columbia, Symphony of Lights is holiday lights display constructed on the grounds of the Merriweather Post Pavilion. The display hosts a mix of walking and drive-thru nights, along with special events—including a night for the dogs and New Year’s Eve fireworks. Tickets for walk-through nights are $12 per person and must be purchased in advance. All walkers aged 12 and over must supply proof of vaccination. Drive-thru is $20 per car, $10 for veterans on Thursday nights.
Winter Lights Festival in Gaithersburg
The Winter Lights Festival in Gaithersburg is a drive-thru display located at Seneca Creek State Park. Enjoy 3.5 miles of more than 450 different holiday light displays including Santa’s North Pole, Toyland, and more. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are $15 per car Monday through Thursday, and $25 on weekends. Open November 26 through December 31, closed on Christmas Day.
Festival of Lights at Watkins Regional Park
If you’re located near Prince George’s County, you’ll want to check out this popular holiday lights display. This festive tour takes you on a 3-mile ride through Watkins Regional Park and features a 54-foot musical LED Christmas tree. Download the special “I Spy" flyer so the kids can mark off the displays they see along the way. Tickets are $8 per car and $10 at the gate. The Festival of Lights runs through January 2.
Lights on the Bay
Enjoy this time-honored tradition by driving through “Lights on the Bay” at Sandy Point State Park. It costs $20 per car; $30 per large passenger van, minibusses, and trolleys; and $50 for buses. You can also purchase 3D glass for an additional $5. The light display is open through January 2.
Are there any other holiday light displays we missed? Email us or comment below!
