Driving around to see neighborhood Christmas lights is a fun holiday tradition for many families. There's nothing better than loading the family into the car with hot chocolate, turning on holiday music, and taking in all the dazzling Christmas light displays. And the best part is, it's free!

Though DC itself offers gorgeous holiday lights in public places, like Light Yards and ZooLights at the National Zoo, we've found that the best places to see Christmas light displays on houses are in the suburbs. Luckily, there are many neighborhoods in Maryland and Northern Virginia that get way into the holiday spirit. Many of them host animated light shows that are synchronized to music played through car radios, so families can stay warm and cozy inside their vehicles.

Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Maryland and Northern Virginia to see over-the-top neighborhood Christmas lights. For more holiday fun, check out our Christmas Activities and Holiday Guide for DC Kids.

Many families wonder what’s open on Thanksgiving in DC. Perhaps you have family in town and are looking for a fun activity before or after your Thanksgiving feast. Maybe you need to grab some last-minute groceries or want to get a jump on your holiday shopping. Or maybe you just can't wait to start doing all those fun Christmas activities.

We've found family-friendly places, cultural attractions, and stores open on Thanksgiving Day throughout the DC area. Be sure to buy tickets in advance if an attraction requires them, and check your local stores for hours. And if you'd like your Thanksgiving outing to include a meal, our list of restaurants open on Thanksgiving in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia has you covered!

Hosting Thanksgiving at home is a lot of fun, but let's face it—it's also a lot of work. Gathering the crew at a restaurant instead allows everyone to be together on Thanksgiving without all the hassle of cooking and cleaning. Luckily, there are plenty of restaurants open on Thanksgiving in DC and its surrounding areas where you can do just that.

Here are 15 restaurants open on Thanksgiving in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia in 2025. Not only are they all kid-friendly, but many even offer special pricing for kids ages 12 and under. If you see something you like, make a reservation ASAP, as spots fill up quickly.

Wherever you choose to gather this Thanksgiving, bring some laughter to the table with our list of 25 Thanksgiving jokes for kids. For even more Thanksgiving fun, try one of our 50 Thanksgiving crafts, games, and activities for kids and families.