A favorite thing to do during the Christmas season is the Way of Lights at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Snows. I love that most of the lights are white, in keeping with their name Our Lady of Snows. This has been a tradition for many years as I used to visit with my parents many years ago.

Entrance to National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows

Way of Lights

As the winter season is upon us, the National Shrine of Our Lady of Snows transforms into a radiant haven of light and wonder.  The Way of Lights is an annual holiday spectacle, weaving a tapestry of festive illumination, inviting us on a magical journey through this enchanting display.

Amphitheatre with Lights

As you drive through this wonderful display with nativity scenes and other biblical remnants, it is a reminder of the story behind Christmas. It is a blend of holiday festivity and spiritual reflection.

Lourdes Grotto at Christmas time

Lego and Christmas Tree Displays

One of the things we enjoy seeing is the Lego display inside the Visitor Center, encompassing different tables full of towns and people, all of Lego, and built by a local Lego Organization. It is a fun event, offering visitors a chance to look for different icons who are hidden within the displays. One could easily spend a couple of hours seeking the characters hidden within the buildings and streets of this marvelous display.

Lego Display

The Christmas Tree display is always interesting, captivating visitors with the beauty and ambiance of the season, with trees decorated differently, and yet it seems with a theme that is different from year to year.  

Christmas Tree Display

Lourdes Grotto at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows

I always enjoy stopping at the Shrine, or Grotto and lighting a candle. During the Christmas season, the Shrine is adorned with a manger and statues of Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus, reminding us of the true meaning of Christmas.

Good to Know

The Gift Shop located within the Visitor Center offers many spiritual and religious items and is a great place to find gifts and souvenirs.

The Way of Lights is by donation.

There is a food area in the Visitor Center for those who would like to grab a little something to eat during the Way of Lights.


The Way of Lights at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows is more than a holiday event; it is a journey into the heart of Christmas magic. The lights, displays, and festive atmosphere create a sense of joy, reminding us of the warmth and wonder that define the holiday season.

While we love to visit during the holiday season and it is a part of our Christmas routine, I enjoy stopping at other times of the year, spending time in reflection and lighting a candle at the Shrine.

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