Magical Holiday Light Displays in Howard County MD: 2025 Guide

There’s nothing quite like the magic of twinkling holiday lights to bring out the wonder of the season, especially when you have little ones who are wide-eyed and full of Christmas spirit. Our family loves bundling up, grabbing hot cocoa, and exploring the best holiday light displays in and around Howard County, Maryland.

Whether you’re looking for a drive-through adventure, a cozy walk, or something totally unique, here are our family’s favorite spots to help light up your holiday season!

Top Howard County Christmas Lights That Spark Holiday Magic

Symphony of Lights- Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods, Columbia

Address: 10475 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, MD

• A timeless local tradition, Symphony of Lights transforms Merriweather Park into a glowing winter wonderland with more than 300,000 sparkling lights. You can drive through to your favorite holiday playlist or enjoy one of their themed walk-through nights for a more up-close experience. My kids especially love the family-friendly “Twinkling Tots” event, it’s the perfect pace for little ones!

Mom Tip: Bring along a thermos of cocoa and your coziest blanket for the drive, it makes the experience even more memorable.

Ellicott City Lights- Ellicott City, MD

Address: 4802 Red Hill Way, Ellicott City, MD

• This neighborhood-run light display is a hidden gem! The synchronized lights, music, and holiday spirit make it worth the trip. It’s ideal for a quick drive-by after dinner or a short stroll if the weather’s nice.

Mom Tip: Bring gloves and hats, you’ll want to linger and take in all the twinkling details.

Holiday Lights at Savage Mill- Savage, MD

• Historic Savage Mill shines even brighter during the holidays. With its charming string lights, festive storefronts, and cozy atmosphere, it’s a wonderful place to slow down and soak in the season. Take a stroll, explore the shops, and enjoy a sweet treat along the way.

Mom Tip: Stop by Sweet Cascades Chocolatier for festive, handcrafted chocolate treats—our go-to stop every December!

Maryland Holiday Light Spectacular – Maryland State Fairgrounds, Timonium, MD

Address: 2200 York Rd. Timonium, MD 21093

• This is one of Maryland's biggest holiday attractions, the Maryland Holiday Light Spectacular at the Maryland State Fairgrounds features millions of dazzling LED lights, immersive walk-through displays, and themed holiday zones perfect for families. You’ll find everything from larger-than-life ornaments to tunnels of lights synchronized to music.

Mom Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, there’s so much to explore! Bonus: there are snacks, drinks, and plenty of photo ops for your family holiday card.

Winter City Lights- Olney, MD

Address: 4501 Olney Laytonsville Road, Olney MD

• Just a short drive from Columbia, Winter City Lights is one of the most impressive holiday light experiences in Maryland. Featuring over one million lights, a 52-foot Christmas tree, synchronized shows, and glowing trails that wind through the woods, it’s an immersive experience unlike any other. Visitors can enjoy hot drinks, festive food, and fire pits throughout the event.

Mom Tip: Bundle up for the walk and grab your tickets early, this one sells out fast!

Howard County Neighborhood Light Displays

• Don’t forget to check out the incredible neighborhood displays right here in Howard County! From homes synced to holiday music to over-the-top front yard spectacles, these community displays bring local holiday cheer to life.

Mom Tip: Look for online maps of participating homes or check community Facebook groups for the latest light locations,your kids will love discovering each surprise around the corner!

Bonus Holiday Adventures Beyond Howard County

If you’re up for a little road trip, these nearby light displays are absolutely worth the drive:

• Lights on the Bay – Sandy Point State Park, Annapolis
  Drive along the Chesapeake Bay and enjoy over 60 themed light displays, including a whimsical underwater scene.
  
  

• Winterfest of Lights – Ocean City, MD
  More than one million lights along a mile-long walking path at Northside Park, complete with a playground and scenic bayside views.
  
  

• Garden of Lights – Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
  A half-mile walking trail through 50 acres of twinkling botanical displays, one of the most beautiful and tranquil light shows in Maryland.

Whether you’re planning a quick local outing or a weekend holiday adventure, these Howard County and Maryland holiday light displays are guaranteed to add sparkle to your season.

Do you have a favorite light show that’s not on this list? Share your family’s go-to spots so we can add them next year!