Christmas in New York, the tracker

Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Park · Prospect Heights, Brooklyn

Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden, photographed by New York Dearest

But skipping Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden would be a mistake.

Visiting a botanic garden might not be the first thing that comes to mind when looking for the best Christmas lights in New York City. But skipping Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden would be a mistake. Explore in amazement as an illuminated trail takes you through impressive light installations designed by international artists.

Seasonal treats and festive music are par for the course, everyone in the family will feel the holiday spirit in no time. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is one of the best places to see Christmas lights in New York City with kids, my five-year-old niece has a blast every time.

NYC Christmas Lights Tip.Tickets sold out last year, so make reservations well in advance.

Hours
Nov 20 2026 to Jan 3 2027, entry staggered through the evening; garden closes 3.30 pm daily during the event
Cost
Adult tickets $29 to $44 depending on date, child (3 to 11) $15 to $28, prices include fees; tickets go on sale Sep 29
Subway
2, 3 to Eastern Pkwy-Brooklyn Museum, 4 min
Address
990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY

Read my full guide

New York Dearest
The guide, $35

Click for the dates and my verdict

The NYC holiday tracker · Saturday, September 26

Christmas in New York,
day by day.

129 places on one map, every tree, rink, market, window and show, with this year's dates the morning they're announced.

or start with
Season opens Oct 10 · 14 days Saks light show, Channel Gardens, December 2025
© OpenStreetMap · OpenFreeMap