A Local’s Guide to the Holiday Trail of Lights

Virginia Beach’s Reinvented Winter Wonderland

There’s something truly special about winter by the water, especially as the coastline lights up for the season. While generations of locals and visitors grew up driving along the oceanfront for the classic Holiday Lights at the Beach, this season brings an unforgettable evolution. The festivities are heading off the sand and winding through the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center’s Nature Trail. Welcome to the brand-new Holiday Trail of Lights — an immersive, open-air walking wonderland!

Millions of synchronized lights, music, and interactive surprises make this the holiday experience you’ll remember for seasons to come. Here’s your insider look at what to expect along the trail. And because we know you’ll want to go, buy your tickets now here!

Walk Through Seven Themed Light Zones

That’s right! Seven uniquely themed zones transport you through the festivities, bringing holiday magic to life:

• Dickens Drive: Step back in time to the charm of Victorian England. A storybook Christmas atmosphere comes alive with classic Charles Dickens-inspired decor, glowing lanterns, and carolers singing holiday tunes. 
• Glowing Grove & Snowflake Symphony: A lively fusion of illumination and festive music. Glowing pillars guide you toward a grand stage filled with 20-foot trees, arches, and shimmering snowflakes dancing to holiday favorites. The best part? Santa will be visiting, and he loves taking pictures with kids and families.
• Light Fall Forest: Look up! Hundreds of glowing strands of light dangle 35 feet overhead, cascading down into a breathtaking, luminous canopy.
• Santa’s Stroll: Wander through whimsical, suspended white trees and interactive video floors. At the center, a 40-foot decorated holiday tower stands tall, setting the scene for the perfect family Christmas card photo.
• Flurry Lane: Stroll through a true winter wonderland that dazzles with frosted snowflakes, glowing icicle lights, and snow falling around you.
• Glimmer Games & Toy Soldier Tower: Playful adventure takes center stage in vibrant glowing caves packed with light games. Just steps away, Toy Soldier Tower provides a bird’s-eye view of the show, giving picture-perfect memories.
• Enchanted Forest: A winding woodland trail lit by dancing laser stars draws visitors into magical fog-filled bubbles and shimmering laser beams — guaranteed to keep the little ones happy. 

Know Before You Go

Before you lace up your walking shoes for this one-mile fantasy walk, here are a few helpful details to make your evening full of cheer.

• Buy your tickets ahead of time. To keep wait times and crowds manageable, tickets are sold in reserved time slots. At-the-door ticket sales are not guaranteed and will have an additional fee. Discounted military family pricing is available on Monday nights, and discounts are available for Aquarium members. 
• Parking is totally free!
• The entire pathway is flat, paved or boardwalk-style, and fully ADA accessible. Strollers, wagons, wheelchairs, and mobility scooters are welcome.
• Snacks, warm drinks, and adult beverages will be available on the trail, or fuel up beforehand at a nearby dining spot.

Make Memories Under the Glow

Ready to experience the newest winter wonderland of Virginia Beach? Secure your tickets in advance at Holiday Trail of Lights. Then head over to our accommodations page to find the perfect place to stay while you enjoy the festivities, oceanside style. ‘Tis the season for joy and cheer — we’ll see you in Virginia Beach!