Alexandria Christmas Lights 2026

8 christmas lights in Alexandria and nearby.

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Alexandria's holiday illumination season is underway. For a large-scale spectacle, consider Ice & Lights Winter Village at Cameron Run, a ticketed experience transforming the park with light installations. If you prefer a free and family-friendly outing, the Washington D.C. Temple Festival of Lights in Kensington offers a different kind of glow. Explore these and other illuminated locales to find your perfect winter scene.

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All Christmas Lights Around Alexandria

Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run

Alexandria, VA
$
Nov 14 – Jan 3, 2027

Outdoor holiday village with light displays, lighted mini golf, and a maze.

Cameron Run transforms into an outdoor winter village filled with dazzling light displays and photo opportunities such as a walk-through tree, giant wreath, and lighted stars. Visitors can challenge themselves with lighted mini golf, an interactive scavenger hunt, and a...

Holiday Light DisplaysIce SkatingFamily Friendly
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Smithsonian's National Zoo ZooLights

Washington, DC 9 mi from Alexandria
Nov 20 – Jan 3, 2027

Displays of glowing animal lanterns and one million LED lights.

Visitors can stroll through illuminated grounds featuring magical displays of glowing animal lanterns and one million environmentally-friendly LED lights. The holiday event also features live musical performances to watch and festive treats, including hot cocoa, to enjoy.

Holiday Light DisplaysFamily FriendlyFestive Atmosphere
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Christmas Illuminations at Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon, VA 7 mi from Alexandria
$$$
Dec 19 – Dec 20

Potomac River fireworks, historic illuminations, and 18th-century holiday traditions at Washington's estate.

Visitors explore illuminated historic grounds and can tour George Washington's Mansion in the evening. The event features musical fireworks choreographed over the Potomac River, an 18th-century winter encampment, an artisan Winter Market, and appearances by George and Martha Washington alongside...

Holiday Light DisplaysFireworksFamily Friendly
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Enchant Christmas at Nationals Park

Washington, DC 5 mi from Alexandria
$$
2026 dates TBA

World's largest Christmas light maze at Nationals Park.

Step into a magical holiday wonderland at Nationals Park with Enchant Christmas. This immersive event features the world's largest Christmas light maze, an enchanting ice-skating trail, and a festive village brimming with unique gifts and seasonal treats. Experience dazzling lights,...

Holiday Light DisplaysFamily FriendlyInteractive Displays
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Parties

1 of 15 The Nutcracker Tea Party Washington

Includes cast appearances and tickets to The Nutcracker ballet.

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Giving Opportunities

1 of 2 Holiday Sharing Program Alexandria

Community support for vulnerable children's needs.

See all 2 ways to give →

Markets

1 of 23 St. Nicholas Market Alexandria

Outdoor market featuring over 50 local Catholic artists and makers

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Shows

1 of 18 Holiday Magic with Matt Tavares & A New Animated Special Alexandria

Live book reading, behind-the-scenes movie stories, and an easel drawing demonstration.

See all 18 shows & screenings →

Unique & Unusual

1 of 28 Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade Alexandria

Dozens of Scottish clans, pipe and drum bands, and terriers parade.

See all 28 unique events →

Find Christmas Lights on Our Map!

See all light displays and installations in one place.

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Alexandria Christmas events map - Click to view interactive map

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top Christmas light displays in and around Alexandria?

Top displays include the Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights along the Old Town waterfront and Winter City Lights, a 1.5-mile enchanted trail with over a million twinkling lights near Alexandria. Additionally, many neighborhoods feature beloved neighborhood displays that are free to enjoy.

Are there drive-through light displays as well as walkable options near Alexandria?

Yes, near Alexandria you can find both drive-through light displays and walkable trails. The Winter City Lights offers a walkable experience with immersive light tunnels, while nearby Northern Virginia parks host drive-through festivals like the Bull Run Festival of Lights.

When do Alexandria Christmas lights typically start appearing?

Alexandria Christmas lights and holiday displays generally start appearing in late November, with official events like the Holiday Tree Lighting at City Hall around Thanksgiving weekend and major parades and light shows beginning in early December.

Are there free Christmas light displays available in Alexandria?

Yes, many neighborhood displays in Alexandria are free to visit, including the Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony at City Hall and various decorated streets throughout the city. These provide accessible ways to enjoy holiday lights without a ticket.

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