Local Holiday Lights & Events for Seniors

Winter holiday traditions bring joy, light, and a sense of nostalgia, especially for older adults who cherish long-held seasonal rituals. But winter outings can also feel overwhelming. Colder temperatures, icy walkways, nighttime events, and busy crowds can make it difficult for seniors to get out and enjoy the festivities.

That’s where a little support can make all the difference. At Griswold Home Care Chevy Chase, our caregivers help seniors experience the holidays safely, comfortably, and fully.

Below are some of the most senior-friendly holiday events in Montgomery County and the DC metro area, along with a few ways our team helps make these outings smooth, safe, and enjoyable.

✨ Brookside Gardens – Garden of Lights (Wheaton, MD)

Brookside Gardens’ “Garden of Lights” is one of the area’s most peaceful and visually stunning holiday displays. Winding pathways transform into glowing flowers, sparkling animals, and seasonal scenes, the kind of lights that invite you to slow down and take in the moment.

Why it’s great for seniors:

• Wide, paved pathways
• Gentle walking areas with benches
• Wheelchair-accessible sections
• Warm indoor spaces nearby

Griswold caregivers can help set a comfortable walking pace, provide arm support, keep track of rest breaks, and offer conversation and companionship throughout the visit.

🎄 Smithsonian National Zoo – ZooLights (Washington, DC)

ZooLights is a beloved DC holiday tradition filled with whimsy and charm. Seniors can enjoy animal-themed sculptures, festive music, and seasonal treats, and with thoughtful planning, the outing doesn’t require long distances.

Senior-friendly benefits:

• Many displays visible from main walkways
• Wheelchairs available on site
• Smooth, accessible paths
• Plenty of warm-up spots

Our caregivers assist with navigating crowds, carrying items, ensuring seniors stay warm, and keeping them steady on their feet.

✨ Winter City Lights (Olney, MD)

Winter City Lights is one of the largest outdoor light experiences in the region, an immersive world of glowing trees, sparkling tunnels, and festive music. It’s a beautiful outing for seniors who enjoy walking with support and pacing.

What makes it enjoyable for seniors:

• Clearly marked walking trails
• Seating areas throughout
• Fire pits and warm beverage stands
• Eye-catching displays you can enjoy at your own pace

A caregiver can help choose the easiest routes, provide steady walking assistance, and ensure the experience feels joyful rather than tiring.

🌟 Strathmore’s Outdoor Holiday Lights & Music (North Bethesda, MD)

Each December, Strathmore transforms its campus into a scenic winter wonderland, blending art, light, and music.

Why seniors love it:

• Easy-to-navigate paved walkways
• Wide, open outdoor areas
• Ample benches and rest spots
• A quieter, less crowded atmosphere

Caregivers can offer transportation, walk with seniors at a comfortable pace, and assist with warm-up breaks as needed.

⛸️ Silver Spring Outdoor Ice Rink & Plaza Lights

Even if seniors aren’t lacing up skates, the Silver Spring rink and plaza are festive, bright, and perfect for people-watching.

Senior-friendly features:

• Plenty of seating
• Flat, easy-walking surfaces
• Close to shops and cafés for warm drinks and rest stops

❄️ Cozy Holiday Activities for Seniors Who Prefer Staying Home

Not every senior wants to be outdoors in the cold, and that’s perfectly okay. Holiday joy can be just as meaningful indoors.

Griswold caregivers can help bring seasonal cheer with:

• Decorating the tree or arranging holiday décor
• Baking simple festive treats together
• Writing holiday cards
• Watching classic holiday movies
• Listening to seasonal music
• Doing winter-themed crafts and activities

Sometimes the simplest traditions feel the most special.

How Griswold Caregivers Support Safe, Enjoyable Holiday Outings

The holidays can be magical, but safety always comes first. Here’s how our caregivers help seniors experience seasonal events with confidence and comfort.

🚗 Reliable Transportation

Cold weather and nighttime driving can be stressful for older adults. Our caregivers provide safe transportation and walk with seniors from door to door.

🧣 Winter Safety & Warmth

Caregivers assist with proper layering, slip-resistant footwear, warm-up breaks, and monitoring for signs of fatigue or chill.

🧭 Steady Walking Support

Dim lighting, uneven surfaces, and busy walkways can pose fall risks. Caregivers offer arm support, mobility assistance, and help seniors move confidently through the event.

🕯️ Companionship That Makes the Season Brighter

Sometimes what seniors appreciate most is simply having someone by their side, offering conversation, reassurance, patience, and warmth.

Making Holiday Memories: Safely and Joyfully

Whether it’s admiring the lights at Brookside Gardens, strolling through ZooLights, or enjoying a cozy night in with decorations and cocoa, every senior deserves to feel included in the joy of the season. With the right support, holiday traditions become easier, safer, and more meaningful.

Griswold Home Care Chevy Chase is here to help seniors experience the magic, in whatever way feels right for them.

If you’re interested in arranging holiday outings or scheduling caregiver support this season, we’d be happy to help. Just reach out, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Ready to schedule care or learn more?
📞 Call us at (301) 949-3824
🌐 www.griswoldhomecare.com/chevy-chase
📍 Serving Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Potomac, and surrounding Montgomery County communities

About the Author:

Tanya Henry, Lead Care Coordinator

Tanya brings over 12 years of experience in customer service and support to her role at Griswold. As a Senior Customer Advisor in an independent living facility, she gained firsthand insight into the importance of thoughtful planning, family involvement, and strong community support when it comes to aging with dignity. Today, she uses that expertise to help older adults who wish to age in place, carefully matching them with skilled caregivers and guiding both clients and caregivers through the transition to care at home.