From the holiday garden display to the amusement park turned into a winter wonderland, these lights will immerse you in the festive atmosphere.
All the Halloween decorations are stored until the next season, it's time to look forward to Christmas. From traditional drive-in light displays to otherworldly light shows in local gardens and zoos in the area, light lovers will be able to experience a variety of unique festival creations throughout the state. If you want to fill your weekend with holiday light displays this winter, then these are the places you need to check out before the new year.
November 19 to January 2, 5 to 10 pm If you want a lasting holiday memory, head to the winter wonderland of Cameron Run. The park is brightly lit and becomes a top photography venue every year. From the ice rink to the new giant holiday light bulbs, everyone will be amazed as they run on the field. Cameron Run Regional Park: 4001 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria; $9.19
From November 19th to January 2nd, the Bush Garden during the holidays is a must-see attraction on your winter bucket list. One of the largest light displays in the country, displaying more than 10 million lights, and you will find flickering displays in every corner. Busch Gardens: 1 Busch Garden Avenue, Williamsburg; $39.99-$59.99
When you enter the gates of Kings Dominion from November 20th to January 9th, get ready to head to the North Pole. The amusement park will be beautifully decorated with millions of flashing lights, and its iconic Eiffel Tower and fountain will be transformed into a 300-foot-tall Christmas tree and ice rink. While you admire the dazzling display, enjoy the fun of riding a carriage around the park, jumping on the rides after dark, decorating cookies with Mrs. Claus and more. Kings Dominion: 16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell; USD 23-37
It will come to life when you toggle the switch in the Richmond Botanic Garden from November 22 to January 9, 4 to 10 pm. As you look for lit flowers, butterflies and peacocks on the ground, millions of lights line up the path to illuminate the trees. Lewis Ginter Botanic Garden: 1800 Lakeside Ave., Richmond; USD 5-14
From November 26 to January 1, at 5:30 in the afternoon, head to the mountainous area to participate in the unique festival of lights. Grab your wine glass and choose the perfect seat, because the vineyard will illuminate more than 10,000 vines every night. Those who want to spend a special night under the lights can attend the Chef's Table four-course dinner at the vineyard throughout December. Bluemont Vineyard: 18755 Foggy Bottom Rd., Bluemont
From December 10th to January 1st, forget the traditional holiday lighting display from 6 to 8 pm, and go to see the wonderful works of local artists. In the evening, start to visit the center’s indoor exhibition "Along for the Ride", and then drink a cup of hot cider while you brave the cold and stroll through the outdoor light sculptures. Franklin Park Art Center: 36441 Blueridge View Ln., Purcellville; $3
By 4:30-9 pm on January 2nd, in this unique light show, the animals have taken over. As you explore one of the most popular zoos in NoVA, visitors can watch life-like animal light sculptures up close, including giraffes, pandas, flamingos and more. Roer's Zoofari: 1228 Hunter Mill Rd., Vienna; USD 22-66
By 5-9:30 pm on January 2 Want to travel through a winter wonderland? Walk along the Norfolk Botanic Garden for a mile, you can enjoy all the festival scenery, but there is no seasonal chill. Guests will be able to stroll under the huge beam of light trees, pass the gingerbread village, and pass through the sugar cane forest for a magical night full of fun (and photos). Norfolk Botanic Garden: 6700 Azalea Garden Rd., Norfolk; US$10-25
By January 2nd, the time will be different, enjoy the flashing holiday lights in your comfortable and warm car. Just pack your family and drive along the 2.5-mile light bulb trail to spend a magical holiday night. Bull Run Regional Park: 7700 Bull Run Dr., Centreville; $30-$40 per car
By January 2nd, the time will be different. Go to the Meadowlark Botanical Garden to view the garden in an unprecedented way. Walk along the path between the trees and the displays, illuminating the ground and reflecting off the pond. Meadowlark Botanical Garden: 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct., Vienna; USD 5-18
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