The Bull Run Festival of Lights is back again this year for not just an incredible light show, but a whole load of Christmas-related fun that is fit for all audiences!
This year, aside from a drive through its iconic 2.5-mile Christmas lights display, there will also be a special Holiday Village featuring vendors for Christmas shopping, a carnival packed with amusement rides, and, of course, a stable where you can line up to check out the petting zoo or even go for a camel ride!
What is the Bull Run Festival of Lights?
The annual event takes place every year around the Christmas season; its core attraction is a 2.5-mile drive through a light display. However, as mentioned above, there are additional attractions, including a holiday village, a carnival, a petting zoo, and even camel rides.
The event takes place at Bull Run Regional Park in Centreville, Virginia, which is approximately a half-hour drive from the District.
How much does the Bull Run Festival of Lights cost?
First, it’s important to note that a ticket for the Festival of Lights must be purchased to enter the Holiday Village or the Carnival, which has an admission fee of $32.45 per car when purchased online, but can cost around $45 at the door.
With the Car Admission fee, in addition to seeing the drive-through light trail, all passengers will also get access to the other attractions after the drive is finished; however, it’s worth noting that the Carnival does have a ticket system, so here is how the Carnival pricing breaks down:
- Single tickets – $1.75 per ticket
- Sheet of 30 tickets – $40
- Sheet of 50 tickets – $60
- Ride all you want wristbands – $32 per person
- Rides tend to require 3, 4 or 5 tickets
Unfortunately, we could not find specific pricing information about the petting zoo or the camel rides this year, but, in the past, camel rides were $8 per rider, so it may not be a bad idea to bring a bit of cash with you, just in case these attractions require payment and do not accept cards.
When can you go?
The Festival of Lights is open daily from November 14, 2025, through January 4th, 2026, barring any unforeseen inclement weather that creates unsafe conditions.
- Monday-Thursday: 5:30-9:30 pm
- Friday-Sunday & Holidays: 5:30-10:00 pm (Holiday nights include November 27, December 24, 25, & 31, and January 1)
It’s worth remembering that while the Festival of Lights will remain open until January 4th, the Holiday Village and the Carnival will both close for the season on January 2nd.