GAITHERSBURG, Md. (October 17, 2023) The City of Gaithersburg Winter Lights Festival welcomes visitors back for its 28^th spectacular season. Due to the popularity of this event, tickets must be purchased in advance and are only good for the specific date listed on the ticket. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online here.

 The wondrous display of lights at Seneca Creek State Park will be open nightly November 24 through December 31, Sunday through Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 6 to 10 p.m. The Festival will be closed on December 25. The park is located at 11950 Clopper Road, just a few miles west of the intersection with I-270.

 The 3.5-mile drive through the enchanted woodland setting of Seneca Creek State Park takes you past more than 450 illuminated displays and beautifully strung trees that light up the night. Festival favorites include a Fairytale Castle, Winter Woods, Victorian Village, Mermaid Lagoon, and an enchanting Fantasy theme.

 Admission

Advance online ticket purchase is required; tickets will not be available at the admission booth. Admission is $15 per car Monday through Thursday and $25 per car Friday through Sunday. Tickets must be purchased for a specific date and are only good for that date. Exchanges are available in advance only, subject to availability. This event is likely to sell out; early ticket purchase is highly recommended.

 Holiday Giving Donation Discount Dates

Donate to the City’s Holiday Giving Program and save on your admission. Visit Winter Lights for only $10 per car from November 27 through November 30. Purchase discounted tickets online, and bring donations of new children’s winter hats, gloves, and scarves to the check-in station when you arrive.

 Special Nights at Winter Lights

 S’more Lights & Trolley Rides

Friday, November 17, 6 – 10 p.m.

Roast marshmallows over a campfire and make delicious s’mores in a beautiful woodland setting. At your leisure, take a trolley ride through a wonderland of sparkling trees, illuminated arches, and animated vignettes. Visit our heated tent with live music by Rocknoceros, activities and selfies with Santa while enjoying hot beverages. Maria’s Kitchen food truck will be onsite with food for purchase. Purchase tickets here.

 Sip & Sparkle

Sunday, November. 19, 6 – 9 p.m.

Enjoy wine and cider tastings and a magical and cozy 3-mile open-air trolley ride through the lights. Tastings from local makers, hot chocolate, s’mores, live music by Carly Harvey, photos with Santa, and a selfie station with fun props will all be waiting for you inside a heated tent. Crepes Parfait food truck will be onsite with sweet and savory crepes for purchase. Featured vendors include Saints Row, Clear Skies Meadery, Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard, and Linganore Vineyard. This event is for ages 21+. Purchase tickets here.

 Leashes ‘n’ Lights Dog Walk

Monday, November 20, 6 – 9 p.m.

Treat your pooch to a leisurely 1-mile stroll or an invigorating 3-mile walk at Leashes ‘n’ Lights. Bond with your favorite canine as you experience the magical light displays, sip on hot beverages, visit pet vendors, and take a pet selfie with Santa. Purchase tickets here.

 Sponsorship Opportunities

Sponsorship opportunities are available. As a sponsor, you have the opportunity to display your company name in lights for the full run of the festival, have your logo on promotional materials, receive complimentary entrance tickets to share with your employees and clients, and have the opportunity to share digital coupons with thousands of visitors. Review our sponsorship opportunities here.

 For complete details and admission rates for large vehicles please visit www.gaithersburgmd.gov.