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Enchanting Winter City Lights: A Festival of Radiance

Discover the enchanting Winter City Lights festival in Olney, Maryland, where millions of twinkling lights create a magical winter wonderland experience.

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Experience the magic of Winter City Lights, a dazzling festival in Olney, Maryland, where twinkling lights and festive displays create an enchanting atmosphere perfect for families and friends. Enjoy the stunning visual art installations, festive music, and seasonal treats that make this event a memorable winter wonderland.

A brief summary to Winter City Lights

  • Friday 5 pm-9 pm
  • Saturday 5 pm-9 pm
  • Sunday 5 pm-9 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the full experience without the crowds.
  • Dress warmly as temperatures can drop significantly in the evening.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning light displays and festive moments.
  • Check the schedule online for special events and performances during your visit.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday for a more relaxed experience with fewer visitors.
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Getting There

  • Public Bus

    From the Gaithersburg City Hall (31 S Summit Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20877), walk to the nearest bus stop at the intersection of S Summit Ave and E Diamond Ave. Take the Ride On Bus Route 55 towards Olney. Stay on the bus for approximately 25 minutes. Get off at the Olney Laytonsville Rd & Old Baltimore Rd stop. From there, walk approximately 10 minutes northeast along Olney Laytonsville Rd, and you will arrive at Winter City Lights located at 4501 Olney Laytonsville Rd.

  • Ride Sharing Services

    If you prefer to use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft, open the app and set your destination to 'Winter City Lights, 4501 Olney Laytonsville Rd, Olney, MD 20832'. The estimated ride time from central Gaithersburg is about 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. Just wait at a designated pick-up point near your location for your driver to arrive.

  • Bicycle

    If you're feeling adventurous and would like to bike to Winter City Lights, you can rent a bike from a local bike-sharing program available in Gaithersburg. Start at the Gaithersburg Community Museum (9 S Summit Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20877). Head east on E Diamond Ave, then take a right onto S Frederick Ave (MD 355). Continue north for about 4 miles until you reach Olney Laytonsville Rd. Turn left, and after about 1 mile, you will find Winter City Lights on your left.

Unlock the Best of Winter City Lights

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Discover more about Winter City Lights

Winter City Lights is a captivating festival that transforms the serene landscape of Olney, Maryland, into a vibrant winter wonderland. As you enter this enchanting realm, you'll be greeted by a breathtaking display of over a million twinkling lights that illuminate trees, pathways, and structures, creating a magical atmosphere that enchants visitors of all ages. The festival runs from late November to early January, making it the perfect destination to celebrate the holiday season. Stroll through the various themed sections, each offering unique light displays and artistic installations that tell stories and evoke the joy of winter. In addition to the stunning visual spectacles, Winter City Lights offers a variety of festive activities that enhance the experience. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, including holiday music performances that fill the air with cheer and joy. For those seeking a cozy treat, local vendors provide seasonal snacks and warm beverages, ensuring you can savor the flavors of winter as you explore. Families will find plenty of activities to engage children, from interactive displays to photo opportunities with whimsical characters that add to the festive charm. Plan your visit wisely to make the most of this magical festival. The event is usually open from 5 PM to 9 PM on weekends and select weekdays, so be sure to arrive early to find parking and enjoy the full experience without the rush. Whether you're visiting with friends, family, or that special someone, Winter City Lights promises an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, joy, and the spirit of the holiday season.

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