Alexandria Christmas Lights 2026

8 christmas lights in Alexandria and nearby.

← See ALL Alexandria Christmas Events

Alexandria's holiday illumination season is underway. For a large-scale spectacle, consider Ice & Lights Winter Village at Cameron Run, a ticketed experience transforming the park with light installations. If you prefer a free and family-friendly outing, the Washington D.C. Temple Festival of Lights in Kensington offers a different kind of glow. Explore these and other illuminated locales to find your perfect winter scene.

View these on a map →

All Christmas Lights Around Alexandria

Enchant Christmas at Nationals Park

Washington, DC 5 mi from Alexandria
$$
Nov 20 – Dec 27

World's largest Christmas light maze at Nationals Park.

Step into a magical holiday wonderland at Nationals Park with Enchant Christmas. This immersive event features the world's largest Christmas light maze, an enchanting ice-skating trail, and a festive village brimming with unique gifts and seasonal treats. Experience dazzling lights,...

Holiday Light DisplaysFamily FriendlyInteractive Displays
View Event →

Christmas Illuminations at Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon, VA 7 mi from Alexandria
$$
Dec 19 – Dec 20

Historic 18th-century holiday traditions meet dazzling light displays and fireworks.

Experience the magic of Christmas Illuminations at George Washington's Mount Vernon. This enchanting evening event features spectacular fireworks over the Potomac River, a beautifully illuminated historic estate, and a unique artisan winter market. Step back in time with 18th-century encampments,...

Holiday Light DisplaysFireworksFamily Friendly
View Event →

Smithsonian's National Zoo ZooLights

Washington, DC 9 mi from Alexandria
$$
2026 dates TBA

Enchanting winter wonderland with illuminated lantern animals.

Step into an enchanting winter wonderland at ZooLights, the Smithsonian's National Zoo's annual holiday light spectacular. Wander through festive pathways illuminated by dazzling lantern animals and immersive displays. Enjoy live musical performances, take a magical ride on the train or...

Holiday Light DisplaysFamily FriendlyFestive Atmosphere
View Event →

Related Articles

20 Most Unique Christmas Events in America →

Discover 20 of the most unusual and offbeat Christmas events across the U.S. – from surfing Santas and keg Christmas trees to fruitcake tosses and Krampus parades.
Best Christmas Market in Every State →

From traditional German-style markets to modern holiday shopping experiences.

Explore More Categories

Parties

1 of 15 The Nutcracker Tea Party Washington

Nutcracker-themed tea party with performance tickets included

See all 15 parties & tastings →

Giving Opportunities

1 of 2 Holiday Sharing Program Alexandria

Community support for vulnerable children's needs.

See all 2 ways to give →

Markets

1 of 28 DC Holiday Market Washington

Over 35 local artisans and small businesses in Dupont Circle

See all 28 markets →

Shows

1 of 14 Holiday Magic with Matt Tavares & A New Animated Special Alexandria

Author event with store credit

See all 14 shows & screenings →

Unique & Unusual

1 of 33 Classic Holiday Wreath - Flower Arranging Workshop 2026 Alexandria

Hands-on holiday wreath making workshop

See all 33 unique events →

Find Christmas Lights on Our Map!

See all light displays and installations in one place.

Open the map →
Alexandria Christmas events map - Click to view interactive map

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top Christmas light displays in and around Alexandria?

Top displays include the Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights along the Old Town waterfront and Winter City Lights, a 1.5-mile enchanted trail with over a million twinkling lights near Alexandria. Additionally, many neighborhoods feature beloved neighborhood displays that are free to enjoy.

Are there drive-through light displays as well as walkable options near Alexandria?

Yes, near Alexandria you can find both drive-through light displays and walkable trails. The Winter City Lights offers a walkable experience with immersive light tunnels, while nearby Northern Virginia parks host drive-through festivals like the Bull Run Festival of Lights.

When do Alexandria Christmas lights typically start appearing?

Alexandria Christmas lights and holiday displays generally start appearing in late November, with official events like the Holiday Tree Lighting at City Hall around Thanksgiving weekend and major parades and light shows beginning in early December.

Are there free Christmas light displays available in Alexandria?

Yes, many neighborhood displays in Alexandria are free to visit, including the Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony at City Hall and various decorated streets throughout the city. These provide accessible ways to enjoy holiday lights without a ticket.

← See ALL Alexandria Christmas Events