This roundup of the best Christmas lights in New York City was written by Alejandro Beltran, a NYC local who works as a writer and photographer for New York Simply (an official partner of Apple Maps) .
As a photographer I’m always on the lookout for new Christmas light displays in New York City, they’re picturesque backgrounds that draw a ton of inspiration. Luckily they’re not that hard to find, and most displays are annual traditions that come back every holiday season. In this article I’ll give you my local’s take on the best Christmas lights in NYC, whether you’re using them for photos or just enjoying the holiday magic. Let’s dive in!
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +3 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
The Best Christmas Lights in New York City
Table of Contents: The NYC Christmas Lights
Table of Contents: Top NYC Christmas Lights Displays
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Where: Dyker Heights, Brooklyn
When: Generally After Thanksgiving Through January
Every city has at least one neighborhood that goes all out for the holidays. In New York City that title belongs to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn, where more than 100 houses put up thousands of Christmas light displays. The locals spare no expense when decorating. And just when you think you’ve seen the brightest, most colorful house, boom! There’s a more-impressive one down the block.
It’s gotten to the point where even tourists take the hour subway ride to see the lights themselves. If you’re interested, I wrote an article covering everything you need to know about the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights in New York City.
Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show
Where: Saks Fifth Avenue
Address: 611 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
When: November 20 2023 to January 5, 2024
The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show is unique in that the holiday lights aren’t just stationary, they’re part of a show. The holiday lights dance to the tune of classic Christmas music, dazzling children and adults alike. The show plays at regular 10 minute intervals (between 5PM-10PM).
In 2023 the Saks Fifth collaborated with Dior to create the holiday light display, which they called the Carousel of Dreams and featured all 12 zodiac signs. Most folks stick around and enjoy a few rounds of these beloved Christmas lights in New York City, but prepare for crazy crowds. The Rockefeller Christmas Tree is just across the street and Fifth Avenue is a zoo this time of year.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden Lightscape
Where: Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Address: Next to Prospect Park, Multiple Entrances
When: November 17, 2023 to January 1, 2024
Botanical gardens aren’t usually where most folks want to be at during the winter. Having said that, most botanical gardens don’t have one million dazzling holiday lights like the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Their show, Lightscape, runs from November to January and takes you through an illuminated path past different gardens. There are abounding decorations and some of the plants are draped in holiday lights.
Note, tickets sold out last year for the NYC Christmas lights display so book your tickets well in advance. The event runs until January 1, 2024.
Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
Where: Bronx Zoo
Address: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460
When: November 17, 2023 to January 7, 2024
The Bronx Zoo hosts a slew of events throughout the year, but their Holiday Lights just might be my favorite. The majority of the zoo gets adorned in a radiant display of Christmas lights that are both beautiful and interactive. There are over 90 animal species recreated with holiday lights, but unfortunately the real animals are tucked away in bed for the night. There’s also some Christmas trees, decorated plants and photo-taking opportunities.
Make sure to purchase a Holiday Lights ticket, a regular entry ticket to the zoo won’t allow access.
NYC Winter Lantern Festival
Where: Queens County Farm Museum
Address: 73-50 Little Neck Pkwy, Queens, NY 11004
When: November 17, 2023 to January 7, 2024
The New York Lantern Festival is about an hour and a half away from Manhattan, but it’s too great of an experience to omit. It’s a walk-through experience at the Queens County Farm Museum where folks are immersed in the colorful world of LED lights and lanterns. There are more than 1000 lanterns in a variety of shapes including animals and holiday decorations, making it one of the best Christmas light displays in New York City for families.
Shine On at Hudson Yards
Where: The Shops at Hudson Yards
Address: 20 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001
When: November 13, 2023 to January 7, 2024
Hudson Yards is a luxurious new mall full of high-end shops and restaurants. True to its lavish reputation, the New York City mall spares no expense during the holidays and hangs more than two million Christmas lights from floor to ceiling. The holiday celebration at Hudson Yards is called Shine On, and it’s one of the most beautiful Christmas light displays in New York City. It’s also one of the most popular places to take photos in NYC during Christmas!
Rolf’s
Where: Rolf’s German Restaurant
Address: 281 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10010
When: Usually the Beginning of November to the End of May
Truth be told I consider Rolf’s a tourist-trap that’s promoted annually by influencers online. The food is mediocre, at best. With that in mind, the decorations sure are pretty. Although I (personally) would recommend staying away from Rolf’s, I have to include them on this list because it’s hard to argue any restaurant in New York City has a better Christmas light display.
If your priority isn’t a great meal then knock yourself out taking pictures at the restaurant. But word to the wise, getting a reservation can prove to be a nightmare. If you live in New York one of the best hacks is to wait until after the holidays to dine under the holidays lights, because they’re up until May.
Cartier
Where: Cartier Fifth Avenue Mansion
Address: 653 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
When: Mid-November to Early January
Locals anticipate the Christmas light display at Cartier every year. All it takes is a glimpse of the lights while strolling Fifth Avenue to put you in the holiday spirit. The decor varies slightly year to year, but the luxury jewelry store generally opts for a simple and elegant presentation. This year it’s a simple hot-air balloon theme that glimmers when the sun goes down.
Radio City Music Hall
Where: Radio City Music Hall
Address: 1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020
When: Mid-November to Early January
There are few landmarks as instantly recognizable as Radio City Music Hall, especially during the holidays. Every year they set a simple illuminated Christmas tree above the marquee, sandwiched in between its two glowing signs. Truthfully Radio City doesn’t go over the top with holiday lights, but it’s such an iconic landmark because it’s been featured in countless Christmas movies (famously Home Alone 2: Lost in New York). Plus, the red ornaments across the streets are a welcome addition.
Chelsea Market
Where: The Chelsea Market
Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
When: Early December to Early January
The Chelsea Market is a popular food hall mixed with unique shops, restaurants, and cafes. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the holiday season you’ll get to see one of the most beautiful displays of Christmas lights in NYC. Although it isn’t overt, the glimmering lights gives the market a cozy and festive feel. Whether you plan on shopping or just strolling through for the decorations, you won’t be disappointed checking out these Christmas lights in New York City.
Fun Fact: The Chelsea Market is housed in the old Nabisco factory building – this building is the birthplace of the Oreo cookie!
Pulitzer Fountain
Where: The Pulitzer Fountain
Address: 764 Central Park S, New York, NY 10019
When: Early December to Early January
The Pulitzer fountain is located on Fifth Avenue on the southeast corner of Central Park. Right next to the Plaza Hotel and among a string of high-end designer stores, the fountain is an elegant fixture. What folks may not know is that the New York City fountain gets decorated with simple Christmas lights. Over 5,000 feet of lights illuminate the fountain and when paired with the mighty Plaza Hotel makes for a striking scene.
Macy’s Herald Square
Where: Macy’s Flagship Store
Address: 151 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001
When: November 16, 2023 to January 1, 2024
Covering an entire city block and spanning 1.1 million square feet, the largest Macy’s in the world doesn’t do anything halfway. This extends to their annual display of beloved Christmas lights, a New York City staple. Macy’s also has stunning Christmas window displays and the Santaland event is a child’s dream. But if you’re in a rush, their Christmas lights are the best in NYC and can be enjoyed in passing from the outside.
New York Botanical Garden GLOW
Where: New York Botanical Garden
Address: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458
When: November 17, 2023 to January 13, 2024
Home to more than one million living plants, the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) is a sight to be behold. What’s more, the NYBG also hosts an annual holiday event called GLOW. During the event they illuminate the garden with some of the best Christmas lights in New York City.
The iconic buildings of the New York Botanical Garden get lit with colorful beams of lights that dance to music. The experience immersive, you’ll get to walk right through the thick of it. To that end, GLOW is one of the best displays of Christmas lights for a date-night in New York City.
Zuccotti Park
Where: Zuccotti Park
Address: Cedar St, New York, NY 10006
When: Early December to Early January
Sometimes you want just want to bask in New York City Christmas lights, cozy and without a plan. Zucotti Park is the perfect place to do so, it’s a park in the Financial District that has all of its trees wrapped in sparkling holiday lights. Plus, Zucotti Park offers ample seating and even hosts a few vendors selling warm drinks and fare. So long as your bundled up you can hang out for a while simmering under the radiant display of Christmas lights in New York City.
Tips for visiting NYC for the holidays
- Bring warm shoe: It’s no secret that winter in New York City is cold, and the most miserable place to be cold is in your toes. I recommend insulated/waterproof footwear (here’s the pair I live in) and the only wool socks you’ll need.
- Bring lip balm & moisturizer: Winters in New York City are dry and cold. Add the raging industrial heaters to the mix and you’re bound to need quality lip balm and moisturizer. Lip balm is a personal thing, but if helpful, here’s the best one I’ve found to date (and it’s cheap!).
- Be mindful of the ice: If you’re visiting New York City in winter be sure to keep an eye on the weather, if it drops below 32° there’s a possibility of ice on the streets. What this means for you — pack these handy things and keep an eye out for ice (especially when using stairs).
- Portable charger: Cold weather depletes batteries (both cellphones and camera) quicker than you’d expect, so when heading out for the day make sure you’re at full charge and pick up one of these.
The Best New York Christmas Lights (Post Summary)
- Dyker Heights
- Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden Lightscape
- Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
- NYC Winter Lantern Festival
- Hudson Yards
- Rolf’s
- Cartier
- Radio City Music Hall
- Chelsea Market
- Pulitzer Fountain
- Macy’s Herald Square
- New York Botanical Garden GLOW
- Amaze Light Festival at Citifield
- Zuccotti Park
Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Find the Best Christmas Lights in NYC
NYC Christmas Lights FAQ
If you’re up for the commute Dyker Heights in Brooklyn is the best concentration of Christmas lights in New York City. Otherwise, Fifth Avenue is the most famously decorated street in Manhattan.
The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show is the most famous place to watch Christmas lights in New York City.
The giant, red baubles are on 6th Avenue, also known as the Avenue of the Americas between 49th and 50th Streets (across the street from Radio City Music Hall).
The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show happens at regular, 10 minute intervals between 5PM and 10PM.
Map to the best Christmas lights in New York City
Helpful (Related) Links
Christmas in New York City: 20 MAGICAL Things to Do (And 5 to Avoid!)
Christmas Packing Tips: What to Wear in New York City in the Winter (+Packing List)
What to Watch in NYC for Christmas: 15 Charming Christmas Shows in New York City (2023 Guide)
Where to Shop for Christmas: 10 Cheerful Christmas Markets in New York City (Worth the Visit!)
Where to Ice Skate in New York: 10 Impressive Ice Skating Rinks in New York City (+ Where to Skate For FREE!)
Christmas on a Budget: 20 Free Things to Do During Christmas in New York City
Where to Drink on Christmas: 10 Bars Open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in New York City
The Best Christmas Trees in NYC: 15+ Captivating Christmas Trees in NYC and Where to Find Them
Where to Find Festive Cocktails: 15 Christmas Pop Up Bars in New York City (Worth Waiting in Line For)
Where to Eat on Christmas: 20 Toothsome Restaurants Open on Christmas Day in New York City
The Capital of Christmas: 10 Festive Things to Do at the Rockefeller Center during Christmas
Prettiest Window Displays: 10 Wonderful Window Displays in New York City (Local’s Guide)
The Neighborhood with the Best Christmas Lights: Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Guide
Dining with the Best Christmas Decorations: 15 Epic New York City Christmas Restaurants You’re Sure to Love
What to Gift a New Yorker: New York Gifts | For New Yorkers & Die-Hard NYC Lovers
Best Hot Coco: 20 Best Cups of Hot Chocolate in NYC (Local’s Guide)
New York City Christmas Inspo: 15 Charming Christmas Movies Set in New York City
New Years Eve in Times Square: 2023 Guide to Celebrating New Years Eve in Times Square (Is it Worth it?)
The Best Decorations: New York Christmas Decorations: Where to Find Festive Decor in NYC
Macy’s Santaland: The Complete Guide to Macy’s Santaland in NYC (Your Kids Won’t Want to Leave!)
The Most Chaotic Day of the Year: Everything You Need to Know About SantaCon NYC (or How to Avoid it!)
And there you have it folks, my list of the best Christmas lights in New York City. Hope you found it useful.
Cheers & happy holidays!
Nancy keener says
We are coming with grandaughter Nov. 26th. Was a little dissapointed to see that the Rockefeller Xmas doesn’t light till then and tht The Plaza Hotel tree does noty light till later either. Will we still be able to see some lights around mid town walking most of the time WE are staying at the Sheridon Times Square. Thank you
New York Simply says
Hi Nancy! Lights and decorations are slowly going up all around the city as of last week. We have no doubts that you and your granddaughter will get to see festive decor around. We highly recommend swinging by Hudson Yards to check out some of our favorite lights in NYC!