The holiday season in Montgomery County offers a breathtaking array of light displays. Visitors can enjoy the illuminated pathways at the Garden of Lights in Brookside Gardens, marvel at the Winter Lights drive-through in Gaithersburg, and take in the festive atmosphere at Rio’s Lakefront. In Kensington, the Festival of Lights shows off an international flair. You can participate in a traditional tree-lighting ceremony filled with festive music in Kentland, or attend the annual tree-lighting event located in Clarksburg. Whether you prefer a classic favorite or wish to start a new holiday tradition, this season promises dazzling light displays and unforgettable experiences.
Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens: Wheaton
Holding a cup of hot chocolate, guests can stroll through the illuminated worm tunnel while enjoying over one million radiant lights shaped into handcrafted flowers, animals, and snowflakes at the Garden of Lights located in Brookside Gardens. Bundle up and meander through this enchanting winter wonderland filled with whimsical displays. Capture a picture in front of the glowing Loch Ness monster and let the children indulge in creativity at the interactive tap-light display near the Children’s Garden.
The outdoor pathway extends approximately 1.5 miles. It is recommended to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and dress warmly for the cooler evening temperatures. The path is wide and accessible, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, accommodating families with ease. After experiencing the light displays, be sure to visit the Brookside Gardens Gift Shop, where you can find leaf-themed necklaces, botanical stationery, and books that make ideal gifts for garden enthusiasts. Furthermore, enjoy hot chocolate, warm cider, or light snacks from the food vendor.
Opening on November 20, the Garden of Lights welcomes visitors every evening until January 3, 2027 (with the exception of November 25-28, December 24 & 25, and January 1). Ticket prices are $13.99 on Sundays through Thursdays and $16.99 on Fridays and Saturdays per person. Tickets must be purchased in advance, as no sales will occur at the entrance. Children under four can enter for free (ticket not required).
Winter Lights at Seneca Creek State Park: Gaithersburg
Enjoy a memorable evening by hopping into your car and tuning into the holiday radio station for a delightful 3.5-mile drive through Gaithersburg’s Winter Lights Festival, where over 450 dazzling displays and beautifully lit trees create a magical experience at Seneca Creek State Park. As you cruise along, encounter enchanting scenes depicting fairytales, Winter Woods, Victorian Village, Mermaid Lagoon, and the North Pole.
For a unique experience, consider attending one of the Enchanted Evenings, themed events that occur before the Winter Lights opens to vehicles. Participate in roasting marshmallows amidst the woodlands during S’mores Lights, run or walk in the Run Under The Lights 5K on November 21, or savor local beer and wine on an open-air trolley during the 21+ event known as Sip & Sparkle on November 22. Additionally, pet owners are invited to join their furry companions for a stroll beneath the lights at Walk & Wag. Afterward, snap a selfie with Santa and enjoy treats from the food trucks on-site.
The City of Gaithersburg’s 31st Winter Lights Festival will be open every night from November 27 to December 31 (excluding December 25) at Seneca Creek State Park. Advance ticket purchases are necessary since no tickets will be sold on-site or during Enchanted Evenings. Ticket prices are $15 per car/van (Monday-Thursday), $25 per car/van (Friday-Sunday), and $35 for vans accommodating 15 or more passengers. All tickets are date-specific and valid only for the selected date of purchase.
Light up the Lakefront at Rio
Experience the joyous atmosphere that envelops Rio in Gaithersburg during Light Up the Lakefront. Meander along the boardwalk adorned with stunning light displays, take memorable photos with oversized ornaments, listen to festive music from the stage, and ride the carousel for a nostalgic experience. As a gesture of goodwill, attendees can donate children’s pajamas to charity to receive a s’mores kit for roasting over the fire pit, alongside more waterfront activities just waiting to be enjoyed.
After a stroll through this enchanting environment, indulge your taste buds at one of the many restaurants in Rio, such as Copper Canyon Grill, where you can savor a delectable short-smoked Atlantic salmon or a hickory-grilled filet, paired with a special holiday cocktail, or opt for a meal to-go. This year, new activities include a Sportsrock Glow Climb to enhance your festive experience before gathering around the lakefront for the fireworks display at 7:00 PM.
Light Up the Lakefront is set for Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. All parking garages at Rio will be open and available to attendees. The carousel will operate until 6:30 PM. This festive event is free to attend, although arriving early is recommended to partake in the programming starting at 4:00 PM. After the fireworks, keep the energy flowing by enjoying a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants or unwind at AMC or Dave & Buster’s to wait out the traffic.
Festival of Lights
Immerse yourself in a captivating holiday exhibit at Kensington’s Washington D.C. Temple Festival of Lights, where over 500,000 lights illuminate the expansive 52-acre grounds of the temple. Stroll under sparkling trees, capture family pictures with the beautifully lit temple in the background, and then visit the visitors’ center to explore an international creche display showcasing nativity scenes from diverse cultures worldwide. Each evening, enjoy live performances by local musicians and artists that enhance the festive atmosphere.
The lights will be illuminated each night from 4:45 PM to 9:00 PM, with performances hosted inside the Washington D.C. Temple Visitors Center. Experience holiday concerts featuring the temple choir, bell ensembles, and live orchestras in the center’s auditorium. While inside, be sure to check out the themed Christmas trees decorated with global ornaments and spiritual writings.
Admission to the festival is free, as is parking. Doors will open 45 minutes before performances, and arriving early is advisable to avoid congestion.
Tree Lightings
This year, Clarksburg Premium Outlets will host a Holiday Tree Lighting on November 21, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Enjoy festive music, live performances, and festive selfie stations. The tree lighting ceremony will commence promptly at 7:00 PM.
Get into the holiday spirit at the Gaithersburg Concert Pavilion during the 100th annual Jingle Jubilee & Tree Lighting on December 4, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This free event will feature live music, delicious food, and much more.
Join family and friends for the Hanukkah Menorah Lighting Celebration at Westfield Montgomery on December 5, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. This community event will celebrate the Festival of Lights with festive music, beloved holiday traditions, and activities suitable for all ages.
