Christmas Lights Near College Park 2026

6 christmas lights near College Park.

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College Park residents have many places to enjoy holiday lights this season, from nearby Columbia and Alexandria to Washington D.C. You can find dazzling displays within city parks and extensive light walks in neighboring towns.

Consider a drive to the expansive Symphony of Lights or a stroll through Meadowlark Botanical Gardens' Winter Walk of Lights. For a family-friendly, free experience, the Washington D.C. Temple Festival of Lights is a popular choice.

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All Christmas Lights Around College Park

Enchant Christmas at Nationals Park

Washington, DC 9 mi from College Park
$$
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
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Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens

Wheaton, MD 7 mi from College Park
$$
Nov 20 – Jan 3, 2027

Enchanting outdoor walk-through light exhibit.

Experience the magic of Brookside Gardens transformed into a winter wonderland at the Garden of Lights. This enchanting outdoor exhibit features a half-mile walk-through trail adorned with twinkling lights and unique, glimmering displays. Explore the illuminated flowerbeds and grounds of...

Holiday Light DisplaysFestive DecorationsFamily Friendly
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Smithsonian's National Zoo ZooLights

Washington, DC 7 mi from College Park
$$
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
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Washington D.C. Temple Festival of Lights

Kensington, MD 7 mi from College Park
Free
2026 dates TBA

Over 500,000 lights and global nativity scenes

The Washington D.C. Temple Festival of Lights transforms the grounds into a winter wonderland with over 500,000 dazzling lights. Visitors can explore a global collection of nativity scenes, admire beautifully decorated Christmas trees, and enjoy daily holiday performances. This free...

Holiday Light DisplaysNativity ScenesFamily Friendly
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Parties

1 of 13 The Nutcracker Tea Party Washington

Nutcracker-themed tea party with performance tickets included

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Giving Opportunities

1 of 1 USPS Operation Santa Washington

Nationwide letter-writing and gift-fulfillment program for children.

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Markets

1 of 26 DC Holiday Market Washington

Over 35 local artisans and small businesses in Dupont Circle

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Shows

1 of 22 Holiday Cheer! Arlington

Annual holiday tradition with young artists and carols sing-along.

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Unique & Unusual

1 of 32 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Washington

Annual U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree lighting ceremony

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Find Christmas Lights on Our Map!

See all light displays and installations in one place.

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College Park Christmas events map - Click to view interactive map

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top Christmas light displays in or around College Park?

Some of the most popular light displays include local parks and select neighborhoods known for their festive decorations. Many residents also enjoy walking trails and drive-through lights in nearby areas.

Are there drive-through or walkable Christmas light options in College Park?

Yes, there are both drive-through lights and walkable trails in and near College Park. Some neighborhoods offer drive-through experiences, while parks and community events feature walking paths with holiday lights.

When do Christmas lights typically start in College Park?

Most Christmas lights and displays in College Park begin in early December and remain up through early January, with many neighborhoods lighting up around the first weekend of December.

Are there free Christmas light displays in College Park?

Yes, many neighborhoods and public parks in College Park offer free Christmas light displays. These are often community-driven and open to all visitors during the holiday season.

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