Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Winter City Lights
Step into a dazzling wonderland at Winter City Lights, a premier Christmas light festival near Washington DC. This immersive experience boasts over a million twinkling lights across 10 acres, featuring a spectacular 52-foot programmable Christmas tree and a mesmerizing canopy of lights that dance to holiday tunes. Guaranteed snow showers every half hour add to the magical atmosphere. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the 8-lane Penguin Plunge Snow Tubing Ride, while everyone can savor festive concessions and warm drinks.
What to Expect
Over 1 million twinkling lights in a technologically advanced Christmas light show.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Free parking is available.
- Accessibility: An asphalt pathway assists wheelchair guests from parking to the main compound, including the Ice Palace and Candy Cane Lane. The compound is mulched, and staff can assist with navigating with certain chairs. Off-road strollers are recommended, or a stroller valet is available.
- Pets: No pets allowed
Other Christmas Events Near Olney
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, and anyone looking for a festive holiday experience.
Vibe
Magical, enchanting, festive, dazzling
Energy Level
High
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High
Special Events & Promotions
- Tickets are limited and most nights will sell out.
- Ticket prices increase closer to Christmas or for last-minute purchases.
- Children under 4 are FREE and receive free unlimited snow tubing rides with a paid adult.
- Group discounts are available for parties of 15 or more with advance reservation.
Location
Event Details
Duration
Individual events stay open until customers are done; recommended visit time is several hours.
Ages
All ages (Children under 4 are free)
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Steelhead Events
Food & Drink
Full concessions available including pizza, BBQ sandwiches, burgers, fries, s'mores, funnel cakes, fried Twinkies and Oreos, hot chocolate, and alcoholic/non-alcoholic holiday drinks.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Purchase tickets and snow tubing passes online in advance, as popular nights and the tubing ride are likely to sell out.
- Dress warmly in layers and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes like boots, as the event is entirely outdoors on uneven, potentially slippery, and mulched surfaces.
- Arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled time slot to allow for waiver completion and security checks.
- Consider bringing a child backpack carrier instead of a stroller, as the mulched terrain can be challenging for strollers.
- Check the event's Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter pages for any weather-related closure announcements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included with the General Admission ticket?
General Admission includes entry to the 10-acre event, the 52-foot tree and canopy light shows, themed areas like Candy Cane Lane and the Ice Palace, 20 bonfires, and access to concessions. Free parking is also included.
Can I purchase tickets on-site?
No, all entry tickets must be purchased online in advance. While snow tubing tickets may be available on-site if not sold out, entry tickets are not sold at the gate.
What are the food and drink options?
A wide selection of concessions is available for purchase, including pizza, BBQ sandwiches, burgers, fries, s'mores, funnel cakes, fried Oreos, hot chocolate, and various alcoholic and non-alcoholic holiday beverages.
Is the event accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
There is an asphalt pathway for wheelchair access to main areas. The grounds are mulched, making off-road strollers recommended. A stroller valet is available for checking strollers.
What happens if there is bad weather?
In case of steady rain, severe storms, or extreme cold, the event may close. Closures will be posted on social media. Ticket holders will be offered the chance to reschedule for another available date; refunds are not offered.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.