Magical Holiday Light Displays in Howard County to Brighten Your Season
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 light displays in and around Howard County. Whether you’re looking for a drive-through adventure, a cozy walk, or something totally unique, I’ve rounded up our family’s favorite spots to light up your holiday season!
Symphony of Lights - Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods, Columbia
This one’s a classic and a must-do for any family in Howard County. With over 300,000 lights, the Symphony of Lights is a magical experience that never gets old. You can drive through with your favorite holiday playlist, or join one of their walk-through nights for an up-close look. My kids love the themed events like “Twinkling Tots” where we can enjoy the lights at our own pace!
Mom Tip: Bring a thermos of hot cocoa for the drive-through—it makes the experience even cozier!
Ellicott City Lights - Ellicott City, MD
4802 Red Hill Way, Ellicott City, MD. Show will run Dec 6th-8th, then Dec 13th-31st every night (weather dependent), from 6-10pm
Mom Tip: pack gloves & hat to walk around outside! (great for a quick drive-by after dinner!)
Holiday Lights at Savage Mill
We love Savage Mill year-round, but it’s especially magical during the holidays. The mill decorates with twinkling lights and festive displays, making it the perfect spot for a cozy family stroll. Bonus: you can pop into the shops or grab a treat while you’re there!
Mom Tip: Check out Sweet Cascades for some holiday-themed chocolate treats—it’s a family favorite!
Winter City Lights 🎄✨
If you’re looking for an over-the-top holiday experience, Winter City Lights is an absolute must! This magical event is one of the largest holiday light displays in Maryland, featuring over 1 million twinkling lights spread across a stunning 18-acre property in Olney, MD (just a 20minute drive from Columbia, MD). Visitors can enjoy a walking mile and a half synchronized light show, a beautiful 52-foot Christmas tree, festive food and drink vendors, and even cozy fire pits for roasting marshmallows.
Mom Tip: Bundle up for the walk-through experience and grab a hot cocoa before heading out to explore! Tickets sell out fast, so be sure to book in advance.
Howard County Neighborhood Light Shows!
This is where the magic of the season really shines (literally). Many homes in our county go all-out with their light displays, and some even sync their lights to music. It’s so fun to drive through the neighborhoods and hear the kids’ excited gasps every time we turn a corner! There is even a map of locations to make your excursion even more merry!
Mom Tip: Find the displays that sync with local radio stations—my kids love watching the lights “dance” to the music!
BONUS LOCATION + BEYOND HOCO:
Lights on the Bay - Sandy Point State Park, Annapolis, MD
For families like mine who love the water, this drive-through display overlooking the Chesapeake Bay is so special. With more than 60 holiday-themed exhibits, including a fun underwater scene, it’s a big hit with kids (and parents)! It’s such a relaxing way to enjoy the lights while staying warm in the car.
𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
Ocean City, MD, over 1 million sparkling lights and enchanting displays along a mile-long walking path at Northside Park (PLUS playground!)
𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
Brookside Gardens has a walking half-mile outdoor exhibit, featuring twinkling lights and unique displays across the 50-acre horticultural gem.
Whether you’re looking for a quick local outing or are up for a holiday adventure, these light displays are sure to spark some Christmas magic for your family.
Do you have a favorite holiday lights tradition? Let me know—I’d love to add it to our list for next year!
