Wherever you are in Virginia, you’re sure to find an inspiring twinkling light display worth a drive to go visit. Here are a few favorite Virginia Christmas lights to inspire your holiday plans. Be sure to plan early because tickets are limited and often have timed arrivals. Popular times sell out quickly. Double check time and admission details as weather and special events can be impactful. Most holiday light venues are open mid-November to mid-January. These magical light displays are all sure to brighten your spirits and warm your heart this season.
GardenFest of Lights at Lewis Ginter Gardens
For award-winning Virginia Christmas lights, look no further. Voted the Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights in the U.S. by USA Today 10 Best in 2023, this year’s theme is Homes & Habitats: A Celebration of Connection. Visitors will experience millions of lights while exploring the beauty and significance of interconnected environments. Venture from vibrant wetlands and lush forests to enchanting fantasy realms. The gardens have been transformed to represent various ecosystems, complete with new interactive features in the Waterway splash pad and Cochrane Rose Garden.
Accessable paths make it easy to walk with a stroller or wheelchair. The Garden Cafe makes the perfect stop to enjoy a meal with family and friends. The Jingle Bar and Grill is a favoite with the kids to grab a cup of hot chocolate! It also offers casual grab-and-go fare and a bar. The Kelleher Warming Fire in the Children’s Garden is a great spot to warm up, sip hot chocolate, and roast s’mores (available for purchase at the nearby Carriage House).
Families can embark on a light-filled adventure to find Pokémon light forms, such as Ponyta and Ivysaur, hidden throughout the habitats. The Herbs in the Home display in the Library Reading Room showcases how we use nature in our kitchens and crafts, reflecting home traditions. Dried botanicals and a timeline exhibit highlighting the garden’s history can be found at the Robins Visitors Center. Other popular attractions will also return this year, including the model trains, fairy houses, and trees decorated by Henrico County Public Schools students. The show-stopping Fraser Fir from Pennsylvania, which stands 20-feet-tall in the North Wing of the Conservatory also makes the perfect photo-op. For dates, times and tickets to experience the GardenFest of Lights at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond, check their website.
Lighting of the Lawn
The Lighting of the Lawn at the University of Virginia is one of Charlottesville’s most cherished holiday traditions, bringing together the community for an evening of celebration and unity. Held annually in early December, this free event transforms the historic UVA Lawn into a magical winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights. The evening includes musical performances, poetry readings, and a spectacular light show synchronized to music. Perfect for families, the event is a wonderful way to experience the festive spirit while enjoying the beauty of UVA’s iconic Rotunda and Lawn. For updates on the 2024 Lighting of the Lawn, including the event date and parking details, visit lightingofthelawn.com.
Maymont Garden Glow
Experience the magic of Maymont during Garden Glow. This year, discover new light sculptures along the expanded Kinsale Glow Path and see the Japanese Garden, transformed into a stunning spectacle of color and illumination over 22 enchanting nights.
Kick off your adventure at The Robins Nature Center, where the Kinsale Glow Path leads you past imaginative light displays created by international artists, culminating at the Glow Village on the Carriage House Lawn. Here, you can cozy up around fire pits, relax on glow furniture, and indulge in food and drinks from the Glow Bar.
Then, take a stroll along the Woodland Trail into the captivating Japanese Garden, which will be awash in vibrant colors. Plan for at least an hour and a half to fully soak in the experience, and be ready to walk about a mile and a half, navigating some gentle slopes. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bundle up for winter weather! Note the historic pathways to and throughout the Japanese Garden presented by Colesville Nursery are not stroller-friendly. Stroller parking will be available near the Glow Village and for those who need assistance, transportation will be available.
The Glow Village is packed with activities for everyone. Snap a colorful photo at the Shadow Wall presented by Juno Financial Group, unleash your creativity at the Big Bright Mega Light board, or enjoy the new Glow Swings from Magic Special Events. Gather by a fire pit to reconnect and share stories with your loved ones.
This year’s Garden Glow promises to be a memorable blend of art, nature, and community—a perfect christmas daytrip for all ages!
If you are already a Maymont menber, you can enjoy complimentary access on October 16, 22, and 29.
Winter Wander at Boar’s Head Resort
At the Boar’s Head Resort Winter Wander Trail of Lights, enjoy the beauty of the terrain while taking a stroll around the lakeside under the glow of a brilliant array of lights. It is an incredible, one-of-a-kind light display. Wanderers entering the event through the main entrance will be welcomed by a lit archway and a unique 12-foot-tall boar-faced nutcracker. See Dogwood Way for beautiful lanterns, an animated fountain of lights and walk through the illuminated tunnels. Charlottesville is on Travel & Leisure’s Best 25 Christmas Towns in the U.S.!
This year’s Winter Wander Trail of Lights promises to be the most spectacular yet. Experience fireworks and a live drone light show on select nights. Then enjoy live music with a group of enchanting, fairytale-inspired interactive LED dancers. Wander In Motion is a mesmerizing spectacle and is sure to astound children and adults alike. Explore new displays during your Christmas daytrip including Heron’s Nest, celebrating the stunning heron that inhabits Heritage Lake. Make sure to visit enhanced illuminations added to existing features such as Serenity Way, Sunkissed Meadow, and Firefly Grove, and four new artificial snow machines located at Serenity Way and Starry Night Sky. The far east side of the Wander Grounds will host the Enchantment District, featuring live music and attractions on select nights. Enjoy entertainment in a heated tent along with outdoor games, two additional fire pits, and the Frost and Fire Bar.
Veritas Illuminated
Veritas Vineyards & Winery, located near Charlottesville, is unveiling a stunning winter light display called Veritas Illuminated. Visitors are invited to enjoy this charming holiday event, which showcases the picturesque countryside venue in a whole new light. Founded by Andrew and Patricia Hodson, Veritas is a 20-year-old family-run winery known for its exceptional wines and beautiful setting in the Monticello AVA. The winery also offers fine dining and luxury accommodations at the Farmhouse at Veritas.
Guests can relax in a festive tasting area adorned with twinkling lights and warm up by cozy fire pits. The fireplace in the tasting room provides a perfect spot to sip wine while enjoying Chef Andy Shipman’s new farm-to-table winter menu. Indulge in delicious s’mores by the fire or enjoy hot chocolate as you soak in the enchanting atmosphere.
The Holiday Lights Wine Walk invites guests to stroll along a half-mile illuminated path, discovering charming displays among the trees before emerging at the vineyard. Thousands of shimmering lights create a magical scene, perfect for photos and memories. For a delightful holiday experience, Veritas Illuminated promises a winter wonderland filled with festive cheer.
ZooLights at the Smithsonian
This holiday season, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo is transforming into an enchanting winter wonderland with the much-anticipated return of ZooLights! Now celebrating its 16th year, this delightful annual light spectacular is designed with families in mind, inviting visitors of all ages to stroll through festive pathways filled with twinkling lights and immersive displays.
As families wander through the Zoo, they can marvel at the glowing lantern animals that bring the habitats to life in a dazzling display of color and creativity. The magical atmosphere is further enhanced by live musical performances each night, providing a perfect backdrop for making cherished memories together. Kids will especially love taking a spin on the Conservation Carousel, which features beautifully crafted animals and offers a fun way to enjoy the festive spirit.
In addition to the stunning sights, ZooLights offers a variety of seasonal treats that are sure to delight both young and old. Families can sample a range of sweet and savory options, perfect for warming up on a chilly evening. And for those looking to finish their holiday shopping, the Asia Trail, Panda Plaza, and Great Cats stores are stocked with unique gifts that will delight everyone on your list. With its enchanting lights and family-friendly activities, ZooLights at the National Zoo is a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season together!
Busch Gardens® Christmas Town™
Kings Dominion WinterFest
Families can celebrate the joy of the holiday season and thrills of the park at Kings Dominion’s WinterFest. Transforming the park into a magical winter wonderland, WinterFest dazzles visitors with millions of twinkling lights and festive decorations. Children will be mesmerized as the iconic Eiffel Tower transforms into a stunning 300-foot Christmas tree. The famous fountain on International Street becomes one of the largest ice-skating rinks in the area. It’s the perfect picturesque backdrop for holiday memories and photos.
WinterFest is packed with exciting experiences designed for families to create unforgettable holiday moments together. Guests can enjoy lively shows featuring beloved characters and festive entertainment that will have everyone singing along. Don’t miss the enchanting Christmas on Ice show, which combines dazzling choreography with stunning costumes. Families can also look forward to the spectacular tree-lighting ceremony that officially kicks off the festivities for these spectaculer Virginia Christmas lights.
Lighting of the Vines at Bluemont Vineyard
The illumination of 10,000 grapevines magically brings the Bluemont Vineyard hillside to life under the night sky in a spectacular display. The vines at Bluemont Vineyard will be illuminated with thousands of shimmering lights creating a wintry wonderland. Special events abound during the Lighting of the Vines as well as a delicious winter tasting menu. For the luxurious Lighting of the Vines Chef Dinner, ascend the mountain to The Stable at Bluemont Vineyard. Guests will experience the iconic view in a new light as they enjoy a four-course dinner. Each course features local ingredients and during dinner, the chef and winemaker will share the history of the farm vineyard and stories of each wine vintage from grape to glass. For dates, times and tickets to experience these charming Virginia Christmas lights, refer to the Bluemont Vineyard website.
Illuminights Winter Walk of Lights in Roanoke
Brighten your nights and embrace the holiday spirit at Illuminights Winter Walk of Lights, a dazzling experience featuring over 650,000 twinkling lights. As you stroll down the enchanting half-mile wooded path, you’ll be captivated by the vibrant sights and festive sounds of the season. This year, visitors can look forward to exciting new displays, enhancements along the trail, and a variety of family-friendly activities that are sure to create lasting memories.
While you’re exploring, take the opportunity to shop for unique artisan crafts, perfect for holiday gifting or as keepsakes from your visit. Gather around the campfire to roast marshmallows and enjoy the warmth of the season with your loved ones. On select nights, additional family activities will be available, adding even more fun to your experience.
Illuminights is also a dog-friendly event, welcoming furry friends on the Walk of Lights Trail and throughout Explore Park, as long as they are on a leash. Bring your whole family—two-legged and four-legged alike—to enjoy this magical winter wonderland!
Bull Run Fest of Lights in Fairfax
Every year from November until just after New Year’s Day, you can experience the Bull Run Festival of Lights, 2.5 miles illuminated by holiday light displays. Drive the festival route from the comfort of your car; turn off your headlights and just follow the magical glow. Want to avoid the crowds? Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and the week before and after the Christmas holiday are the busiest times. For a less crowded experience guests are encouraged to enjoy the show during the weekdays. The Bull Run Festival of Lights is more than just a light show! After enjoying two and a half miles of light displays, don’t forget to stop at the Holiday Village. Complete with bonfires, s’mores, holiday merchandise, the Holiday Village is fun for the whole family.
Holiday Lights at the Beach
Experience the enchantment of lively jumping fish, musical crabs, cheerful elves, and joyous penguins dancing in a spectacular display of lights set against the moonlit backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. The 2024 Holiday Lights at the Beach promises to create unforgettable memories for families, featuring a Surfing Santa, mesmerizing color-changing archways, and luminous displays honoring the Armed Forces community. Guests will be awed by a magnificent 40-foot dancing-light Christmas tree and the largest and longest curved LED Light Tunnel in the U.S., among many other dazzling attractions.
Families are encouraged to enhance their visit to the Virginia Beach Resort by combining the magic of Holiday Lights at the Beach with a meal at one of the many fantastic restaurants or a trip to exciting attractions along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. With so many activities to enjoy, it’s the perfect opportunity to create a memorable night filled with holiday cheer and family bonding. Whether you’re exploring the light displays or indulging in local cuisine, the festive atmosphere will make for an enchanting evening.
Looking for more holiday happenings? Our Event Calendar has a full list of family-friendly events in the Charlottesville area.
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10 Christmas Daytrips in Virginia Perfect for Winter Break
Our CharlottesvilleFamily Editors are locals who care deeply about family and community. We are almost all parents who serve alongside our readers in the PTO and band boosters, coaching sports teams, helping with the school fun fair and more. Our insider perspective, combined with great research and expert input from our wonderful CharlottesvilleFamily Advisory Panel helps us to provide you with trustworthy advice as you raise the next generation of brilliant and compassionate kids.
