The 18 most popular holiday lights in New York City
Experience the magic of the holiday season with holiday lights in NYC! A dazzling display of festive cheer, the city comes alive with twinkling lights, illuminating iconic landmarks and neighborhoods alike. From the world-famous Rockefeller Center tree to the vibrant Dyker Heights decorations, holiday lights in NYC create a winter wonderland that is not to be missed.
- 1. Christmas Lights R Us Of Manhattan
- 2. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
- 3. Radio City Music Hall
- 4. New York Botanical Garden
- 5. Saks Fifth Avenue
- 6. The Christmas House Of The Garabedian Family
- 7. Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
- 8. Chelsea Market
- 9. Washington Square Park
- 10. Pulitzer Fountain
- 11. Empire State Building
- 12. Rockefeller Center
- 13. The Shops at Columbus Circle
- 14. Bryant Park Winter Village
- 15. Historic Richmond Town
- 16. Brooklyn Botanic Garden
- 17. Macy's
- 18. East Coast Christmas Lights
1. Christmas Lights R Us Of Manhattan

2. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Occurs only during the Christmas season

Dyker Heights, a neighborhood in Brooklyn, transforms into a winter wonderland every December with elaborate and professionally-designed Christmas light displays. The guided walking tour of this area lasts approximately 3 hours and is sure to immerse visitors in the magic and beauty of the holiday season. Area residents go all out with their decorations, spending over $20,000 and using thousands of dazzling lights and extravagant displays.
One of the most celebrated Christmas displays in NYC, Dyker Heights is known for its over-the-top lights and 15-foot tall Santa Claus. The specific address, 1072 80th St 1st. Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11228, is particularly notable for its impressive decorations. Visitors to the area cannot help but be filled with holiday spirit as they take in the sights of this spectacular display.
3. Radio City Music Hall
Host to the annual Grammy Awards and Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes

Radio City Music Hall is one of the most recognizable landmarks in New York City, particularly during the holiday season. An illuminated tree is displayed above the marquee, adding to the festive atmosphere of the city. The music hall is located on the corner of 6th Avenue and West 50th Street, and the huge colorful lights can be seen from many blocks away.
The holiday tree is not the only attraction at Radio City Music Hall. The iconic venue is also home to the Radio City Rockettes, a world-famous precision dance company. The Rockettes perform their high-kicking Christmas Spectacular show during the holiday season, which features elaborate costumes, intricate sets, and festive music. In addition to the Christmas Spectacular, the Rockettes also perform in other shows and events throughout the year, making Radio City Music Hall a popular destination for entertainment in New York City.
4. New York Botanical Garden
A living museum that showcases over one million plants across 250 acres of land, including a historic landmark landscape and a native forest

The holiday season comes alive for the fourth year at Glow, an enchanting light display at the New York Botanical Garden. The outdoor attraction, called NYBG GLOW, features festive illuminations that transform the garden's landmark landscape and historic buildings during select evenings of the holiday season.
Visitors can stroll through the garden's various sections, each featuring unique light displays that highlight the natural beauty of the area. The historic buildings, including the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, are also adorned with lights, creating a magical atmosphere that is sure to put visitors in the holiday spirit. The event offers a unique and festive way to experience the beauty of the New York Botanical Garden during the winter months.
5. Saks Fifth Avenue
Iconic New York department store with a rich history and prestigious reputation

The Full Holiday Light Show 2021 is a spectacular event hosted by Saks Fifth Avenue, a well-known retailer renowned for its extravagant annual light displays. The location of the show is directly across the street from the iconic Rockefeller Center in New York City.
The Saks 5th Avenue Light Show is an awe-inspiring display of synchronized lights and classic Christmas music. It is one of the most impressive light shows during the holiday season in New York City, offering a unique and memorable experience for all visitors.
6. The Christmas House Of The Garabedian Family
A beloved Bronx Christmas tradition since 1967

The Garabedian household has been creating a spectacular and intricate Christmas display in its yard since 197
7. Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
An annual holiday tradition in New York City, providing a festive atmosphere and a range of winter experiences

The annual Tree Lighting ceremony at Bank of America Winter Village took place on November 28 at 6pm, featuring a lineup of talented performers and skaters. The co-hosts for the event were Broadway stars Jenn Colella and Mauricio Martínez. The audience was treated to performances by world-class skaters including Mariah Bell, Karen Chen, Ryan Bradley, and skating pair Alexa Knierim and Brandon Fraizer. The Skyliners also performed at the event.
It is recommended to arrive at the venue an hour before the event starts to secure a good viewing spot and to take advantage of the many food vendors available. Hot cocoa and snacks can be enjoyed while waiting for the show to begin. The Tree Lighting ceremony is an annual tradition that marks the start of the holiday season at Bank of America Winter Village.
8. Chelsea Market
A food hall located in a historic biscuit factory with a variety of food and retail options.

Visiting New York City during the holiday season is a treat for the senses, particularly when it comes to the dazzling displays of Christmas lights. One such location that is sure to delight is Chelsea Market. The exterior of the market is adorned with multi-colored mylar fringe and twinkling lights, setting the stage for the festive atmosphere inside.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted with a stunning interior display of decorative presents, lit-up Christmas trees, and gleaming ornaments. The market offers a magical holiday experience as you walk beneath the vibrant lights and immerse yourself in the festive decorations.
9. Washington Square Park
Hosts numerous events, festivals, and performances throughout the year

The Washington Square Association hosts a beloved winter holiday celebration at Washington Square in December, where attendees can gather under the arch to sing yuletide carols. The tree lighting ceremony takes place on Wednesday, December 6, from 6-7 pm and can be viewed in person or via live stream on the association's Facebook page. The event features the Rob Susman Brass Quartet and vocalist Linseigh Green performing carols, followed by a countdown to the tree's illumination led by Santa Claus, who will distribute candy canes.
In addition to the tree lighting ceremony on December 6, another opportunity to celebrate is available two evenings in December. During these evenings, attendees can gather at Washington Square to sing carols and enjoy the holiday atmosphere. The location under the arch offers a festive backdrop for the celebration, and for those unable to attend in person, the association will live stream the lighting on their Facebook page. The event aims to bring together the community and spread holiday cheer during the winter season.
10. Pulitzer Fountain
Often used as a filming location for movies and TV shows

The Fifth Avenue Association is preparing to kick off the holiday season with an opening ceremony on Nov. 17. The celebration, known as the 'Fifth Season', will take place at the Pulitzer Fountain, situated at 764 Central Park South across from The Plaza Hotel. One of the highlights of the event will be the unveiling of festive holiday light displays at the Pulitzer Fountain, a 22-foot tall ornamental fountain located at the Grand Army Plaza entrance of Central Park.
The Fifth Avenue Association's 'Fifth Season' celebration will mark the start of the holiday season in New York City. The Pulitzer Fountain, a popular landmark, will serve as the centerpiece of the festivities and will be adorned with dazzling holiday light displays for the occasion. The fountain is a 22-foot tall ornamental structure located at the Grand Army Plaza entrance of Central Park, providing a picturesque setting for the event.
11. Empire State Building
Opening in 1931, it was the world's tallest building for nearly 40 years

The building's facade is illuminated each night with an impressive LED lighting system. This system is capable of displaying over 16 million colors, which can change instantaneously. The staff members in charge of the building have the task of selecting the color each night, which often reflects relevant holidays, important events, and cultural happenings.
A tradition has been established to change the color of the lights for significant occasions, holidays, and organizations throughout the year. The building has been utilizing a state-of-the-art LED lighting system since 2012, which is capable of displaying a vast spectrum of colors, specifically more than 16 million.
12. Rockefeller Center
A city within a city, featuring various shops, restaurants, and attractions

The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in New York City is a festive symbol of the holiday season. The tree is lit daily from 6 a.m. to midnight, with exceptions for Christmas and New Year's Eve. On Christmas, the tree stays lit for 24 hours, while on New Year's Eve, the lights are turned off at 9 p.m. The annual tree lighting ceremony took place on November 29, marking the start of the holiday season.
The Tree will remain lit daily until January 13th, with the exception of a shorter schedule on New Year's Day. The tree lighting ceremony was a popular event, drawing crowds to Rockefeller Center to witness the start of the holiday season. The tree will be lit daily from 5 a.m. until midnight, with a special extended schedule until 10 p.m. on January 13th. Visitors to New York City can enjoy the illuminated tree as a festive backdrop to their holiday celebrations.
13. The Shops at Columbus Circle
Direct access to Central Park and Time Warner Center

The stars are synchronized to twinkle with Christmas music. Check their website for times when the light show takes place.
14. Bryant Park Winter Village
A popular winter destination in New York City with a range of activities and attractions

The Bryant Park Christmas Tree lighting ceremony will take place on November 29, 2023, at 6pm. The event will feature performances from world-class skaters, singers, and dancers, as well as fireworks. In 2022, the tree was 43 feet tall and adorned with 12,000 lights. Similar decorations are expected this year.
The Bryant Park Christmas Tree lighting ceremony is an annual tradition that attracts many visitors. In addition to the tree lighting, there will be performances by skilled skaters, musicians, and dancers. The tree itself was 43 feet tall in 2022 and featured 12,000 lights. A similar display is anticipated for this year's event.
15. Historic Richmond Town
Living history museum with costumed interpreters and hands-on activities

Candlelight Tours at Historic Richmond Town have been a beloved holiday tradition on Staten Island. These tours provide visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the history of Christmas celebrations throughout the centuries. During the holiday season, scheduled tours are conducted through the landmark homes, allowing guests to experience the festive atmosphere of past eras.
The Candlelight Tours feature a variety of historic homes, each decorated to reflect the holiday traditions of different time periods. Guides lead visitors through the homes, sharing stories and anecdotes about the history of each location and the people who lived there. The tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of holiday celebrations, highlighting the similarities and differences between past and present traditions. Attending a Candlelight Tour has become a popular holiday activity for both locals and tourists seeking to add some historical perspective to their holiday celebrations.
16. Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Home to the Steinhardt Conservatory, which houses a variety of tropical plants and desert ecosystems

The experience of the event was described as beautiful and fun by Flores. The lights and music were particular highlights of the evening. Another young attendee also shared Flores' enthusiasm, calling the lights "very fun" and expressing overall approval with the term "cool."
Flores and another child both expressed their enjoyment of the event. Flores described it as really, really fun, with the lights and music coming together to create a nice atmosphere. The unnamed child called the lights fun and thought the entire experience was cool. They both seemed to have had a positive time at the event.
17. Macy's
Iconic department store with a rich history and holiday tradition

Macy's Herald Square is known for its creative and festive holiday window displays, and this year's "Give Love" theme is no exception. The display features the return of the beloved reindeer Tiptoe and showcases her friendship with Polar Bear and Penguin. The storyline is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit, Santaland at Macy's 34th Street location offers an animated window display complete with a reindeer star. The display helps bring to life the magic of the holiday season as Santa and his friends spread cheer. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy the holiday windows while taking in the animated show.
18. East Coast Christmas Lights
