One of the best parts about the holiday season in Virginia is the opportunity to celebrate in countless ways. Perhaps one of the most festive is a tour of Christmas lights in Virginia. Like Christmas trees come to life, these twinkling decorations make for an incredible vision if you have a free night to spend time with friends or loved ones.

If you're looking for a dose of holiday magic, these are some of the best Christmas lights in Virginia that are sure to put you in a merry mood.

1. Dominion GardenFest of Lights (Richmond)

When it comes to incredible Christmas lights in Virginia, the Dominion GardenFest of Lights belongs at the top of the list. Set in the beautiful Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens of Richmond, this charming holiday tradition begins with the illumination of half a million lights. For more information about these wonderful Virginia Christmas lights, be sure to visit the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden website.

2. Celebration in Lights (Newport News)

The annual Celebration in Lights festival is a one-of-a-kind drive-through event that takes place at Newport News Park. The gates typically open on Thanksgiving night, ushering in the holiday season with an amazing two-mile drive. Along the way, visitors will see over 800,000 lights along with 300 display pieces. Curious to learn more? Head on over to the Celebration in Lights website for additional details.

3. Million Bulb Walk (Norfolk)

As its name implies, the Million Bulb Walk is the chance to meander through the beautifully-lit grounds of the Norfolk Botanical Garden. Winter has never looked more dazzling than this dazzling stroll through over a million twinkling lights. The walk is wheelchair and stroller accessible. For more information on this delightful display of Christmas lights in Virginia, be sure to check out the Million Bulb Walk website.

4. Holiday Lights at the Beach (Virginia Beach)

A beach boardwalk may seem an unlikely place for Christmas festivities, but that is exactly the case when it comes to Holiday Lights at the Beach. This year, you’ll spot all kinds of themes, from holiday to nautical, draped along the scenic boardwalk. With some fixtures up to 30 feet high, it’s truly a delight for visitors of all ages. Learn more about how you can participate in the annual Holiday Lights at the Beach to see some of the best Christmas light displays in VA.

5. Christmas Town at Busch Gardens (Williamsburg)

Christmas Town at Busch Gardens is an annual event that transforms this beautiful theme park into a spectacular holiday world. Complete with rides, light displays, Santa’s workshop, and even peppermint fudge hot chocolate, this set-up is a must-see, no matter your age. Learn more about what makes Christmas Town at Busch Gardens such a beloved holiday tradition.

6. Walking In A Winter Wonderland (Clearbrook)

This annual light show transforms Clearbrook Park near Winchester with festive displays and walks. And you can watch the lights double before your eyes as the sun sets and the reflection from the lake begins to shine. It’s here that you’ll also find cookies, live music, and plenty of hot chocolate to go around. Learn more about all the festivities in store by visiting Winchester's official tourism site.

7. Bull Run Festival of Lights (Centreville)

The Bull Run Festival of Lights is an annual drive that lets visitors see 2.5 miles of holiday-themed splendor. At the end of the drive, you’ll be greeted at the holiday village where rides, a bonfire, refreshments, and even Santa Claus himself will all be waiting. The event typically takes place between Thanksgiving Day and New Year's Eve. For more information, head on over to the Bull Run Festival of Lights website.

8. Suffolk Holiday Parade

The annual Suffolk Holiday Parade is an event that folks wait all year to celebrate. This parade of floats, lights, music, and more is a family-friendly way to welcome the holiday season. You may even get a chance to spot Santa and Mrs. Claus. For more information about this annual event, click here and get ready to enjoy some amazing holiday lights in Virginia.

9. Holiday Light Show (Danville)

This family-friendly community event welcomes thousands each year to tour the lights of Danville’s most decorated homes and businesses. And to spread the holiday cheer even further, the money raised by this event is donated to local charities and non-profits. For more information about Danville's Holiday Light Show, you can click here.

While this list highlights some of the brightest Christmas lights in Virginia, it certainly doesn't include all of them. So please feel free to share some of your favorite holiday light shows in Virginia with a comment. We'd love to hear from you!

When it comes to travel destinations, Virginia offers some incredibly beautiful areas to explore. What are some of your favorite holiday destinations in Virginia? Feel free to share them with us by filling out our attraction nomination form.