The best Christmas lights in New York City

As a local, I’m always on the lookout for the best Christmas lights in New York City. Luckily, the city is full of dazzling displays that never cease to impress.

For more on festive christmas 2025, see my guide to 20 FESTIVE Things to Do for Christmas in NYC (2026 Guide).

Antonina PattizWriter and photographer · how I decide

Best Christmas lights in New York City, 2026

1. Chelsea Market

   Market · Chelsea, Manhattan · 75 9th Ave, New York

   If you’re lucky enough to visit during the holidays you’ll get to see one of the most beautiful displays of Christmas lights in NYC.

   Read my guide

2. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

   Street · Dyker Heights, Brooklyn

   When it comes to the best Christmas decorations in New York City, Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighborhood takes the cake.

   Read my guide

3. Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

   Event · Prospect Park area, Brooklyn · Next to Prospect Park, Multiple Entrances

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

   Read my guide

4. Radio City Music Hall

   Landmark · Midtown Manhattan · 1260 6th Ave, New York, NY

   While Radio City doesn’t go over the top with holiday lights, it’s a great place to see an iconic New York City Christmas light display.

   Read my guide

5. Luminaries

   Event · Financial District, Manhattan · 230 Vesey St, New York

   The breathtaking display features 650 color-changing lanterns that create one of the most mesmerizing Christmas light shows in New York City.

   Read my guide

6. Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show

   Landmark · Midtown Manhattan · 611 5th Ave, New York

   Of all the impressive lights you’re bound to see while celebrating the holidays in New York City, nothing tops the Saks 5th Avenue Light Show where synchronized lights play in tandem with classic Christmas music, dazzling children and adults alike.

   Read my guide

7. Shine On at Hudson Yards

   Event · Hudson Yards, Manhattan · 20 Hudson Yards, New York, NY

   Read my guide

8. The Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights

   Event · Bronx · 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx

   The interactive displays and animated light shows guarantee a great night, which is why locals consider this one of the best Christmas light displays in New York City for kids.

   Read my guide

9. The Winter Lantern Festival

   Event · Queens · 73-50 Little Neck Pkwy, Queens, NY

   Read my guide

The Best of New York 2026

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       alt="Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest"
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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 13 Best New York City Christmas Light Displays (2026 Guide).