Ah, the holiday season is here, and one of the best things about it is seeing all the beautiful Christmas lights adoring homes, storefronts, and light displays. If you’re looking to see some of the best holiday light displays in New York City this season, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to find out where to experience the best of the Big Apple illuminated for the holiday season.
Christmas Displays in Rockefeller Center
As one of the world’s most iconic Christmas destinations, the worksite of Radio City Music Hall knows how to get in the festive spirit. Christmas decorations can be found around the entire center which is home to the Rockefeller’s famous Christmas tree. The tree is typically lit up with a grand lighting ceremony in early December, but the lights and decorations stay up in the area for the rest of the holiday season.
The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
For the classic holiday light street display, head to Dyker Heights located in Brooklyn. Its homes have become famous for the lights and decorations that line the front lawns at this time of the year. People come from all over the country to catch a glimpse of the intricate and dazzling decorations that you won’t typically see elsewhere.
Christmas at the Bronx Zoo
The Bronx Zoo is great for those who want to enjoy the winter season with a festive family outing. The zoo is decorated in twinkling Christmas lights allowing visitors to enjoy the sights of the animals, as well as feeling the joy of the holidays. The zoo also hosts some festive activities like their electric safari, drive-through holiday lights, and even a visit from Santa.
Madison Square Park
From December 17th to December 31st, Madison Square Park will be transformed into a ​Winter Light Garden​. The park comes alive with festive music, lights, and displays that enable visitors of all ages to experience the season in a different way. There will also be an interactive experience in the form of voice activation holiday-themed messages that enveloping the park.
Grand Central Terminal
Even the interior of this beloved landmark is getting decked up this festive season. It’s a must-visit destination to check out the magnificent decorations as well as its Christmas sidewalk café. Every year on the second Sunday of December, the train station’s celestial ceiling is filled with the melodious voices of Christmas carolers.
New York Botanical Garden
The holiday season at the New York Botanical Garden is a sight to behold. Here, visitors can experience the annual ​Holiday Train Show​ which features G-scale model trains moving along a half-mile track that takes you through replicas of iconic NY landmarks made from all-natural materials. There will also be holiday-guided walking tours, seasonal dances, interactive events and more.
The Magic of Lights
For a magical drive-through experience, take a night apple to The Magic of Lights in Roosevelt Island. Here, You will be surrounded by twinkling lights as you drive through a winter wonderland, and can also create lasting memories with some festive activities.
Bryant Park Winter Village
Come to the Winter Village at Bryant Park this December to enjoy the festivities of the season. There will be no shortage of things to see here, whether it’s a market, a carousel, magic shows, a holiday movie night, a restaurant and more! Perhaps, the most impressive part of the park is the huge seasonal public ice-skating rink, and the over 125 boutique shops with handmade products.
Lights at Citi Field
Every year, Citi Field transforms into a wonderland of twinkling holiday lights. From almost the entire length of December and till early January, visitors can walk around to marvel the beauty of the lights in the stadium. Enjoy the outdoor display before the game starts and watch the crowd sing songs and carols decorated in the holiday spirit.
Saks Fifth Avenue
Saks Fifth Avenue is one of the most popular holiday destinations for visitors, especially for its annual Christmas window display. Every year the department store comes up with a different theme showcasing festive decorations and stories that captivate people of all ages. This time around, Saks will be featuring a spectacular light show with over 125,000 different shades.
New York City creates a holiday spirit like no other, and everywhere you go during this season, you can find the spirit of Christmas alive and well. As the holiday season is one the horizon, make sure to check out these renowned spots in the city to get in the Christmas spirit. From the classic Dyker Heights Christmas lights display to the iconic Saks Fifth Avenue window display, you’ll be sure to experience the beauty of the city during this special time of the year.
