Illustration of a light display scene (Christmas at Gaylord National)
Christmas Lights

Christmas at Gaylord National

Experience "So Much Christmas" at Gaylord National, featuring the spectacular "ice!" attraction brought to life by Dr. Seuss's "How the Grinch Stole Christmas!." Explore millions of dazzling lights, enjoy thrilling ice tubing, and create lasting holiday memories with activities like gingerbread decorating and photos with Santa. This immersive winter destination offers a complete holiday escape for all ages.

What to Expect

Millions of pounds of ice sculpted into holiday scenes.

Event Details

Duration

Varies by activity

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

National Harbor

Timed Entry

Yes

Organizer

Gaylord National

Food & Drink

Festive treats and sips available, including hot chocolate and food vendors in the Christmas Village. Dining reservations may be exclusive to overnight guests on peak dates.

Get Tickets

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, couples, holiday enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive, magical, winter wonderland

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low (most activities are indoors)

Location

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
201 Waterfront Street
National Harbor, MD
20745

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
  • Parking: Valet parking is $75 daily, and self-parking is $50 daily. Day visitors can benefit from reduced special event self-parking rates, with potential savings for pre-paying.
  • Accessibility: The ice! experience is designed to be immersive for all guests. While ice slides require unassisted climbing and height requirements, many other elements like sculpted ice environments and photo opportunities are fully accessible.
  • Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)

Tips & Advice

  • Dress warmly for the "ice!" attraction, as it is kept at a chilly 9°F. While a complimentary parka is provided, wearing closed-toe shoes, long pants, hats, and gloves is strongly recommended.
  • Purchase tickets in advance online, as the resort does not have an on-site box office. All tickets are electronic and delivered via email.
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled timed entry for attractions like "ice!" to allow ample time for parking and walking to the attraction. Late arrivals may not be guaranteed entry.
  • Consider purchasing an Activity Pass to bundle multiple attractions and save up to 30%, offering a cost-effective way to enjoy several festive experiences.
  • Download the free Gaylord Hotels app for easy navigation around the resort, access to dining reservations, activity tickets, and directions to various amenities.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Save up to 20% on room packages by Sept. 13 with code THM.
  • Save up to 30% by bundling activities.
  • Exclusive room and ticket offers for AAA, Military, and Teachers.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear to the ice! attraction?

Guests receive a complimentary parka. It's recommended to wear warm clothing, including closed-toe shoes (required for slides), long pants, hats, and gloves.

Are tickets timed-entry?

Yes, many attractions, including ice!, require specific date and time selections at purchase to ensure the best guest experience. Review attraction details carefully when booking.

Where can I park and is there a fee?

Valet parking is $75 daily and self-parking is $50 daily. Day visitors can get reduced rates for special event self-parking and may save more by pre-paying.

Can I change my timeslot?

Day guest tickets are non-refundable, but exchanges may be possible based on availability by replying to your confirmation email. Overnight guests can change or cancel up to 5 days prior to arrival.

How long does the ice! experience take?

Most guests spend 20-40 minutes inside the attraction, but you can take as long as you like. Tickets are single-entry.

Tags

holiday light displaysice skatingSanta visitsfamily friendlychildrens activitiesinteractive displaysFerris wheelice rinkdrive through displaysfestive food

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team