About Holiday Bucket List 2022
Here are 55 ideas for getting out of the house and into the spirit this holiday season.
Winter Walk of Lights
9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct., Vienna | November 11–January 8
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The botanical gardens transform into a half-mile animated light show. Stop into the gazebo for stunning views reflected on the lake. $16–$20.
Bull Run Festival of Lights
7700 Bull Run Dr., Centreville | November 11–January 8
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Explore two and a half miles of fairytale vignettes from the comfort of your car, driving past leaping fish, LED archways, glowing candy canes, and sparkling stars. Buy tickets ahead of time for discounts. $30–$40 per vehicle.
Ice and Lights Winter Village
4001 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria | November 18–January 1
Check out the seasonal hamlet’s light display, skate on the ice rink, and snap a holiday Instagram with the giant wreath and walk-through tree. $9–$22.
Spectacular Factory
1238 Maryland Ave., SW | November 18–January 8
The interactive museum Artechouse is debuting a holiday panorama with kaleidoscopic nutcrackers and a candy-cane carousel. $25.
ZooLights
3001 Connecticut Ave., NW | November 25–December 30
The National Zoo’s display returns after a hiatus, with glowing sculptures shaped like animal residents. Sip hot beverages during your nighttime stroll. Free.
Winter Lights Festival
11950 Clopper Rd., Gaithersburg | November 25–December 31
Seneca Creek State Park’s 3.5-mile loop is lit up in themes such as Toyland and the Enchanted Forest. Tune into 97.1 WASH-FM for a holiday soundtrack. $15–$25.
Enchant DC
1500 S. Capitol St., SE | November 25–January 1
The winter wonderland in Nationals Park features a light maze leading to a 100-foot-tall tree, ice-skating, and a village with artisan vendors. $18–$34.
Georgetown Glow
Georgetown | November 26–January 22
Outdoor art installations radiate colorful neon when the LED lights are turned on from 5 to 10 pm. Guided walking tours are available to learn more about the artistry. Free.
The District’s Holiday Boat Parade
101 District Sq., SW | December 3
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Watch festooned boats from the Wharf. In addition to the festive fleet, there’s ornament decorating and photos with Santa. Free.
Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
1-A Prince St., Alexandria | December 3
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View the decorated sailboats and powerboats from any spot on the Old Town waterfront or head to Waterfront Park for crafts and a pop-up beer garden. Free.
National Menorah Lighting
1450 Pennsylvania Ave., NWÂ | December 18
The illumination of the massive menorah on the Ellipse kicks off the eight-day holiday. Revelers can also find musical performances, latkes, and doughnuts. Free.
This article appears in the November 2022 issue of Washingtonian.
