Can’t-Miss Holiday Light Displays in Maryland

No matter whether you're age 1 or 100, driving around to look at holiday light displays is arguably one of the best activities of the season. Whether you take them in by car, on foot, or by hay ride, they’re guaranteed to put looks of awe and excitement on the faces of kids and adults of all ages. We’ve put together a list of our favorites, ranging from the most popular to lesser-known gems. So pack up some hot cocoa, load up the car, and go check out these displays around Maryland with your favorite people!

Image credit: Baltimore Magazine

“Miracle on 34th Street, Hampden”

Holiday Park - 700 W 34th St, Baltimore

6-10pm through New Year’s Eve

Free admission

If you’ve been in Maryland for more than a few years, chances are you’re already familiar with this legendary light display. This year marks the 73rd anniversary of the tradition, which was started by resident Bob Hosier when he was just a teenager. Over the years, neighbors joined in, and it’s taken on a life of its own! Visitors are encouraged to walk down the street, instead of driving, as many nights the street is closed to cars. Be sure to stop by Falkenhan’s Hardware to take a picture with Santa and his sleigh, and donate to his charity, Santa’s Elves. You can find more info on their official Facebook page.

Image credit: Severna Park Voice

Lights on the Bay, by the SPCA of Anne Arundel County

Sandy Point State Park, Annapolis

5-10pm through January 2nd

$20/car, $50/bus (discounts available through retailers and local publications like the Bay Weekly)

Just past Annapolis and before the Bay Bridge, this light display runs 2 miles along the Chesapeake Bay and boasts around 70 displays! This display is another classic in the area, having been going for 26 years, and a tradition among many Anne Arundel County residents. The lights pay homage to everything from the holidays, to Annapolis, to the USNA midshipmen. Kids will love participating in the nightly scavenger hunt, and may even win a prize! Head to the event’s official website for more information.

Image credit: The Washington Post

Festival of Lights

Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro

5-9:30pm, through January 1st

$8/car online, $10/car at the gate

Watkins Park’s Festival of Lights is a strong tradition among PG County residents, likely due to the fact that it features more than 2.5 million lights! Animated displays include Santa taking off on his sleigh, mischievous elves, and even a big Wizard of Oz scene! Halfway through the drive, you’ll be awed by the fully-lit, gigantic 54-foot tree. If you want a change of pace from just driving through, you and a group of friends can reserve spots on a hayride, which takes you through the entire route and includes a stop halfway through at the Nature Center complete with hot cocoa, cider, and cookies!

Image credit: Montgomery Parks

Garden of Lights

Brookside Gardens, Wheaton

Arrival times range between 5:30 and 8:30pm, until January 2. Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Book tickets through Eventbrite

Ditch the car and step into this beautiful garden for a fairy tale experience. Everything is lit up at this event, from walkways to flowerbeds, fountains to trees, and magical creatures in between! Though the walking can get to be a bit much for little legs, children and adults alike will love taking a break in the two conservatories (with tropical and seasonal plant displays). Be sure to bring warm clothes - the garden is open rain or shine, regardless of how cold the winter air gets!

Image credit: Severna Park Voice

Zoo Lights

Maryland Zoo, Baltimore

5-8pm, through January 2

Reservations are required ahead of time, which you can get here.

The Maryland Zoo’s famous Zoo Lights event allows you to choose whether you want to walk through, or drive through. No matter which route you go with, though, you’ll fall in love with the magical, colorful displays showing animal and holiday scenes. The walkthrough ticket even includes snacks, hot chocolate, and free train and carousel rides! For more information, visit the Maryland Zoo’s official page.