Winter is a magical time of year in Montgomery County, Maryland, and the City of Gaithersburg’s drive-thru Winter Lights Festival is a shining example of the magic you can experience.

Head over to Seneca Creek State Park for a 3.5-mile drive through the enchanted woodland setting, which includes more than 450 illuminated displays and beautifully strung trees that light your way. Festival favorites include a Fairytale scene, Winter Woods, Victorian Village, Mermaid Lagoon, and a Fantasy scene.

The Winter Lights Festival is open nightly from November 25 through December 31 (closed on December 25) during the following hours: Sunday through Thursday – 6 p.m. with last entry at 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday – 6 p.m. with last entry at 10 p.m.; and December 24 and 31 – 6 p.m. with last entry at 8:30 p.m. You can expect to spend about 25-30 minutes driving through the festival in light traffic and about 1.5-2 hours on busier nights.

The park is located at 11950 Clopper Road in Gaithersburg, just a few miles west of the intersection with I-270. Access is now even more convenient with the Watkins Mill Interchange on I-270.

Due to the popularity of this event, all tickets must be purchased in advance online. Only one ticket per vehicle is required – $15 per car Monday through Thursday and $25 per car Friday through Sunday. Vehicles with 15 or more passengers are $30.

Looking for more ways to spend the Holiday Season in Montgomery County? Check out Artisan’s Markets Not to Miss This Holiday Season or hit a few spots along the Tastemakers Trail self-guided craft beverage tour.