32 Fun Holiday Family Experiences In and Around New York 2025
Don’t miss these holiday experiences around New York this year!
Click on this region to jump to experiences near you!
- Manhattan
- Bronx
- Brooklyn
- Nassau County, Long Island
- Suffolk County, Long Island
- Westchester
- Rockland
- Bergen
Psst… Check out 22 NYC Christmas Tree and Holiday Tree Lightings 2025
Manhattan
Shine Bright at Hudson Yards Presented by Wells Fargo
The Shops & Restaurants at Hudson Yards, 20 Hudson Yards, West Side
Mondays – Saturdays, 10 am – 9 pm, Sundays, 11 am – 7 pm through Jan. 7
All ages
Free
Shine Bright at Hudson Yards presented by Wells Fargo is bringing the neighborhood to life with 115 miles of glittering holiday strings (over 2 million lights in total), 725 evergreen, trees, a 32-foot hot air balloon centerpiece suspended in the Great Room, all alongside New York’s iconic Vessel that will once again be illuminated for the season. Enjoy live performances, free photos with Santa, holiday shopping for everyone on your list, festive dining, and much more throughout the holiday season.
Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
Bryant Park, 41st St. and 6th Ave., Midtown
Daily, 8 am – 10 pm through Jan. 4
All ages
Free admission
Returning with its signature mix of skating, shopping, and festive cheer, this year’s Bank of America Winter Village will dazzle with a host of events and activities for visitors of all ages. The Rink is the centerpiece of Bank of America Winter Village, offering the only free-admission ice skating experience on one of the largest rinks in the city, plus rental skates, free skating performances, and more. The Lodge is a lively food hall and bar serving seasonal food, hot beverages, and festive cocktails from two full-service bars.
Holiday Under the Palms at Brookfield Place
Brookfield Place, 230 Vesey St., Battery Park City
Mondays – Saturdays, 10 am – 8 pm, Sundays, 11 am – 7 pm, through Dec. 24
All ages
Free
This year’s vibrant celebration of the season features festive decor, free holiday programming, and family-friendly events, all presented within the iconic palm tree canopy in BFPL’s Winter Garden. Taking place beneath twinkling lights with waterfront views, the holidays at BFPL feature beloved traditions sprinkled with a touch of new holiday fun.
Santa’s Winter Wonderland
Watermark, 78 South St., Financial District
Mondays – Thursdays, 4 – 11:30 pm, Fridays, 2 – 11:30 pm, Saturdays, noon – midnight, Sundays, 12 – 11:30 pm, through Dec. 30
All ages
Tickets start at $17
Experience a whimsical waterfront Holiday installation with dining and entertainment surrounded by Christmas trees, games, and activities for kids and adults alike! Finish with Santa’s Famous Make-Your-Own S’mores! Santa himself will be welcoming guests 7 days a week!
PaleyLand
The Paley Museum, 25 W 52nd St., Midtown
Through Jan. 4, Wednesdays – Sundays, noon – 6 pm
All ages
$16-$20; free for children younger than 12
The Paley Museum’s annual holiday celebration transforms all five floors into a festive, family-friendly wonderland filled with immersive holiday magic. Enjoy photos with Santa and beloved characters, themed weekends, giveaways, crafts, a magical train display, cozy hot chocolate stations and screenings of holiday classics.
Pinkmas
Museum of Ice Cream NYC, 558 Broadway, Soho
Through Jan. 5, see website for schedule
All ages
$44.99-$59
Pinkmas is back and the MOIC has transformed into a breathtaking forest of pink, where holiday magic meets immersive wonder. Wander through a larger-than-life snow globe, and uncover dazzling surprises around every corner. Plus, indulge in all-new festive ice cream creations crafted to taste like cool winter nights and the nostalgic magic of childhood dreams. From exploring Pinkmas to snapping a festive photo, you’ll leave with the perfect shot and a cozy escape from winter weather.
Holiday Harbor Lights
Pier 83, West 42nd St. and 12th Ave., Midtown West
Nov. 28–Jan. 4, Daily, 7 pm.
All ages
Tickets start at $49
Step aboard Circle Line’s heated, holiday-transformed vessels for a two-hour evening voyage showcasing the city’s twinkling skyline, holiday music, and breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty, Freedom Tower, and Brooklyn Bridge. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to see New York at its most magical—complete with festive décor, cozy indoor seating, and open-air decks for those crisp winter views. This year’s season launch will include special onboard activations and holiday treats for guests of all ages, including candy canes and festive activity sheets for kids on every cruise and seasonal food and beverage menu.
Bronx
Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx Park
Through Jan. 4; see website for schedule
All ages
Tickets start $26.95
Holiday Lights is a festive night out with friends and family celebrating wildlife and enjoying immersive light experiences, hands-on activities, holiday entertainment, and delicious food and drinks. Beloved favorites return, including the Holiday Train and Enchanted Sea – plus NEW surprises including thrilling snow tube slides, an epic illuminated ice-themed throne, virtual snowball throwing, and much more.
Holiday Train Show
New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx Park
Tuesdays – Sundays, 10 am – 6 pm through Jan. 11
All ages
$27-$39
The timeless magic of rail travel fills NYBG with seasonal cheer as model trains travel over famous bridges and through familiar city settings, bringing nearly 200 twinkling landmark replicas to life under the glass of the warm and welcoming Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. Get up close to see these miniature masterpieces, each one meticulously crafted from plant parts like palm fronds, pinecones, and cinnamon sticks. Outside on the Conservatory Lawn, a glowing mountain-scape brimming with even more trains and picture-perfect moments is yours to explore.
Brooklyn
Lightscape
Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 1000 Washington Ave., Prospect Heights
Daily, 10 am – 6 pm through Jan. 4
All ages
$15 – $44
This after-dark illuminated trail returns with luminous installations and light-splashed landscapes highlighting the beauty of the Garden in winter. An all-new experience awaits this year with a redesigned trail, a curated soundtrack, and special dining and drinking attractions.
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Walking Tour
86th St. and 12th Ave., Dyker Heights
Nov. 28 – Jan. 3, 7 pm, Daily
All ages
$35
This chaperoned walking tour will take you to the most celebrated homes ensuring a magical stroll through the prime viewing area where homeowners take holiday decorating to a whole new level.
Nassau County, Long Island
LuminoCity: Fantasy Winter Fairyland
Eisenhower Park, 1899 Park Blvd., East Meadow
Through Jan. 1, see website for schedule
All ages
Tickets start at $36.50 and $28.43 ages 4-12
Themed “Fantasy Winter Fairyland,” this year’s original light art designs turn frosty magic into reality. Journey with Lumi and be amazed as towering sculptures illuminate the park, transforming it into an immersive dazzling fairytale world and a starry holiday dream. New this year, the Lumi Express, a magical ride through a symphony of lights and sounds.
Magic of Lights
Jones Beach State Park, 1 Ocean Pkwy., Wantagh
Fridays and Saturdays, 5 – 11 pm, Sundays – Thursdays, 5 – 10 pm, through Jan. 3
All ages
Tickets start at $23 per carload
This dazzling, drive-through holiday lights experience features favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations. Experience Magic of Lights from the comfort and safety of your own car as you wind through the sparkling path of Jones Beach’s new holiday tradition. Be sure to stop by The Village to experience the outdoor skating rink, write letters to Santa, warm up by the firepit and enjoy tasty s’mores, and take photos with Santa (up until Christmas Eve.) Plus, the Grinch will be there Dec. 24-30!
Christmas House Long Island
Broadway Commons, 358 N. Broadway Commons, Hicksville
Nov. 28–Jan. 2, see website for schedule
All ages
Tickets start at $25
All of your favorite Christmas sights, sounds, and smells come to life in Christmas House Long Island! Almost a dozen unique experiences including the first ever Snow Room, the North Pole Movie Theater, the Indoor Light Show, and many more!
Suffolk County, Long Island
Sayville Falls Holiday Light Show
Sayville Falls Mini Golf, 30 Hanson Place, Sayville
Daily, 5 pm, through Jan. 10, except Nov. 27
All age
$20; $15 ages 12 and younger
Experience an unforgettable walk through of the miniature golf course featuring thousands of lights and holiday displays. Plenty of amazing photo ops available! After you’re done, check out the winter garden with more displays, cozy igloos and much more.
Girl Scouts of Suffolk County’s Holiday Light Show
Camp Edey, 1500 Lakeview Ave., Bayport
Fridays and Saturdays, 5 – 9 pm, Thursdays and Sundays, 5 – 8 pm, through Dec. 21
All ages
Tickets start at $15
See the sparkling lights up close as you walk through a trail in the woods filled with larger than life displays (some designed by Girl Scouts). Take pictures at special photo spots, like at the giant Christmas tree. Hang out in the Chill Zone and enjoy giant lawn games. Plus, you can visit Santa at his winter cabin for a group photo.
Bayville Winter Wonderland
Bayville Adventure Park, 8 Bayville Ave, Bayville
Dec. 5–Jan. 1, see website for schedule
All ages
$26.75; $22.75 children younger than 8
Embark on a magical journey through the enchanting Christmas experiences at Bayville Winter Wonderland! Immerse yourself in dazzling environments, heartwarming stories, and the joyous spirit of the holidays. From festive encounters to whimsical realms, the Christmas attractions transport you to a world where the magic of the season comes alive.
Lumina
Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard, 130 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem
Daily, through Dec. 30, see website for schedule
All ages
Tickets start at $15
Immerse yourself in the warmth and magic of an enchanting, illuminated forest. Over half a million brilliant lights will create a cozy and inviting glow, filling the air with holiday cheer.
Holiday Bricktacular
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester, 39 Fitzgerald St., Yonkers
Nov. 28–Dec. 31, see website for schedule
All ages
Tickets start at $24.99
Families can enjoy a winter wonderland of activities, festive decorations and more including building ornaments for the tree and a special Meet and Greet with the LEGO® Gingerbread character.
The Wonderland of Lights
Dutchess County Fairgrounds, 6636 Spring Brook Avenue (Route 9), Rhinebeck
Nov. 28–Dec. 28, Thursdays – Sundays, 5 pm
All ages
$30 per vehicle up to eight passengers
Travel the captivating drive-thru tunnels adorned with shimmering lights and marvel at larger-than-life illuminated sculptures that will leave you awestruck.
Holidays on the Hill Annual Train Show
Lasdon Public Gardens & Veterans Memorial, 2610 Amawalk Road, Katonah
Nov. 29–Dec. 7, see website for schedule
All ages
$10–$20
Stroll the 2,500-square-foot exhibit set within the stunning Lasdon Glass House Conservatory with multi-level tables and tracks that carry trains as they chug past whimsical settings, nostalgic scenes and well-known characters all with a fresh, innovative design that brings holiday cheer to life. Bring the family to visit Santa in his cozy Santa Cottage, explore the beautifully decorated Conservatory Plaza with a fun scavenger hunt as you try to find the little elves hiding throughout.
The Great Holiday Train Show
New Castle Historical Society, 100 King St., Chappaqua
Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am – 4 pm, through Jan. 3
All ages
$15; $8 ages 4 – 12
This beloved annual tradition returns for the fifth year! 2025 brings new featured layouts, including LEGO Around the World, alongside classic family favorites like the Polar Express and Santa’s Holiday Train. In addition to the trains, the rooms of the historic Horace Greeley House will be festively decorated for the season. For those who are young or young at heart, there will be a train-themed scavenger hunt, an activity room with crafts and hands-on trains, and even a mini train engine for the perfect photo op!
Holiday Lights on the Farm
Muscoot Farm, 51 Route 100, Katonah
Dec. 5–20, Fridays and Saturdays, 5 – 8 pm
All ages
$6; free for ages 2 and younger
Advanced registration required
Get into the holiday spirit and see the farm in a new light! Visit the animals inside of the decorated barns, participate in holiday themed activities, listen to music, enjoy delicious food from participating food trucks and more!
Grand Holiday Illumination 2025
Untermyer Gardens, 945 N. Broadway, Yonkers
Saturday, Dec. 6, 5:30 – 8 pm; Dec. 7–Jan 4, Daily, 6 – 8 pm
All ages
Free
See the Walled Garden lit with more than 150,000 lights and listen to holiday music from many traditions. The 2025 Grand Holiday Illumination opens on Saturday, December 6 at 5:30 p.m. with a dramatic lighting ceremony.
Psst…Check Out 17 NYC Metro Area Toy Drives and Charities to Support This Holiday Season
Rockland County and Beyond
Holiday Bricktacular at LEGOLAND New York Resort
LEGOLAND New York Resort, One Legoland Blvd., Goshen
Through Jan. 3, see website for schedule
All ages
Tickets start at $49
LEGOLAND® New York transforms into a winter wonderland filled with dazzling lights, festive shows, and exclusive holiday builds—all crafted for brick-tastic family fun. Event highlights include a Drive through a tunnel of lights at Elf Driving School, watch the Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 6 featuring a 35-ft LEGO® tree built from over 364,000 bricks, enjoy meet-and-greets, seasonal treats, and holiday-themed shows.
Peace, Love & Lights
Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel
Daily, 5 – 10 pm, through Dec. 28
All ages
Tickets start at $27 per vehicle
Experience the sparkling brilliance of this light show, winding through 1.7 miles of the beautiful Bethel Woods grounds from the comfort of your car. Just turn off your headlights and follow the magical glow.
Bergen County and Beyond
Orchard of Lights
Demarest Farms, 244 Wierimus Road, Hillsdale
Through Dec. 30, see website for schedule
All ages
$35 per car
Advanced registration required
Take your vehicle on a guided tour through 32 acres of brilliant holiday light displays, warm up by the fire pit and enjoy hot cocoa and treats in our retail farm market. Plus, take pictures with Santa, make your own S’mores, and listen to Santa’s singing Reindeer.
Winter WonderLights Annual Holiday Light Show Drive Thru
655 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick
Daily, 5:30 – 10 pm, through Dec. 28.
All ages
$35 – $45 per car
Take a trip to Jersey’s largest animated holiday light show drive thru! From stunning sparkling tunnels to captivating themed displays like snowflakes, candy canes, and winter wonderlands, each section of the show is designed to bring holiday cheer. As you drive through the glowing wonderland, immerse yourself in the synchronized light displays that dance along to festive holiday music, filling your night with joy and magic.
Skylands Stadium Light Show & Christmas Village
Skylands Stadium, 94 Championship Place, Augusta
Through Jan. 3, see website for schedule
All ages
Tickets start at $29 per carload
Take the entire family on a dazzling mile-long drive-thru with over two million lights, shop from amazing holiday vendors, and take pictures with Santa.
“LET IT GLOW!” A Holiday Lantern Spectacular
Bergen County Zoo, 216 Forest Ave., Paramus
Thursdays and Sundays, 4 – 8 pm, Fridays and Saturdays, 4 – 9 pm, through Jan. 11
All ages
$10–$20
Enjoy a walk throughout the Zoo with larger than life lanterns of animals and nature. Each admission ticket comes with a train ticket. This evening event also offers fire pits and s’mores kits available for purchase.
Nick the Halls
Nickelodeon Universe at American Dream, 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford
Saturdays and Sundays, 11 am – 9 pm, through Dec. 23
All ages
Free admission; fee for attractions
Get in the holiday spirit with Nick the Halls at Nickelodeon Universe! Create endless memories with your favorite Nickelodeon friends dressed in their holiday best. Families can ask an Elf to help you write a letter to Santa, decorate ornaments, or make a festive craft in the Elf Workshop. Plus, dance in snow flurries during the Nick the Halls Dance Party and join Nick the Halls Character Parade!
Bergen County’s Winter Wonderland
Van Saun County Park, 216 Forest Ave., Paramus
Nov. 28–Jan. 4, see website for schedule
All ages
$5-$20; additional fee for skate rental and Blitzen’s Bumper Cars
Bergen County’s premier winter event features ice skating, a kids ice rink, a heated hospitality tent, carousel and train rides, food trucks, and more.
