The schedule of December events includes:
- Garden of Lights. Dec. 1‒31 (closed Dec. 24-25). 5:30‒9:30 p.m. nightly. Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Ave., Wheaton. Brookside Gardens’ seasonal light display is back. The display is a one-half mile, walk-through, outdoor exhibit featuring more than a million twinkling lights formed into tunnels, flowers, animals and other natural elements. The rose garden is turned into a winter wonderland filled with white lights, more than 20 large sculptures and falling snow. Hot chocolate and light snacks will be sold at the event, as well as unique seasonal items in the Gift Shop. Tickets required for ages 5 and older. Tickets must be purchased online. $10 per person.
- The Garden Railway Exhibit. Dec. 1‒31 (closed Dec. 24-25). 10 a.m.–3:45 p.m. Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Ave., Wheaton. In partnership with the Washington, Virginia, Maryland Garden Railway Society, this beloved attraction showcases G-scale trains and custom model buildings of Montgomery County landmarks. Sponsored by the Friends of Brookside Gardens. All ages. Free.
- Special Opening-Holiday Hours: Josiah Henson Museum & Park. Wednesdays and Thursdays, Dec. 20–21 and 27–28. 10 a.m. –1 p.m. 11410 Old Georgetown Road, North Bethesda. Purchase interesting stocking stuffers and stay to learn about the extraordinary life of the Reverend Josiah Henson. All ages. Admission: $5 adults, $4 children/seniors.
- Winter Ice Shows. Thursday, Dec. 28. 5:45–7:45 p.m. Wheaton Ice Arena, 11717 Orebaugh Avenue, Wheaton. Resident skaters will perform solo and in small group performances. Free.
