Looking for illuminating new ways to make your spirits merry and bright this season?

Nothing says holiday cheer quite like a sparkling light display — which is precisely why we’re breaking down our festive favorites for you here!

#1 Zoo Lights: Back by popular demand after a 2-year hiatus, Zoo Lights will once again transform The National Zoo into a well-lit winter wonderland starting November 25 until December 30th. Per usual, there will be thousands of lights, live music, and winter treats. And the best part? It’s free!

#2 Enchant DC: Be transported to the ends of the earth by Santa’s Magic Timepiece. Stroll through lighted tunnels, travel to magical illuminated lands as you search for stars, find your way to our epic 100 foot tall Christmas tree, and look for special surprises along the way.

➤ Looking for more ways to enjoy the Holidays in DC? Read these posts next:

• Where to Get Your Christmas Tree in DC
• How to Spend the Holiday Season in DC
• Best Art Galleries in DC

#3 Tudor Place: This just in: Tudor Place will be hosting historic light tours throughout the month. Take the iconic Candlelight Tour to learn how class and ethnicity influenced the ways in which DC residents experienced the holiday season, Partake in light, period-appropriate refreshments, and complete a holiday craft. Afterwards, see seasonal decorations and rarely-seen decorative objects inspired by the celebrations of those who lived and worked here during a guided tour of the historic house.

#4 DC Holiday Lights on 14 Main Streets in DC: Back again for 2022, DC Holiday Lights’ “Experience the District’s Dazzle” returns. From U Street and Logan Circle to Mount Pleasant and Columbia Heights, you can stroll and shop locally on 14 of the city’s main streets. Between November 18 and January 8, take a stroll down each of the participating corridors to experience a dazzling array of lights and decor. Then, cast your vote for the best-decorated corridor!

#5 Meadowlark Botanical Garden’s Winter Walk of Lights: Bring the family to enjoy the magical Winter Walk of lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in Vienna, Virginia. Every year between Thanksgiving until just after New Year’s Day, the garden is transformed into a half-mile, animated light show with plenty of treats for the whole family to enjoy.

#6 Bull Run Festival Of Lights: 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.

#7 Symphony Of Lights: The Symphony of Lights has been a time-honored Howard County holiday tradition enjoyed by many for over 25 years. Set in historic Merriweather Post Pavilion and made up of more than 300,000 bulbs, this family-oriented spectacular is a dazzling display of larger-than-life animated and stationary holiday light creations. With the addition of new lights (and a 150 foot screen!), your time through the revamped and reimagined course guarantees a night to remember.