Things to do
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree
The fabulous holiday icon of NYC, The Rockefeller Christmas Tree is a must-see for both locals and visitors during the holiday season, whether...
The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights display has become one of the most beloved New York attractions during the holiday season. The Brooklyn neighborhood is home to over-the-top Christmas light decorations with life-sized Santas, sleighs and snowmen taking over the neighborhood's homes. Some houses even bump Christmas carols from loudspeakers.
Crowds of all ages flock to the Kings County neighborhood to wander down the multiple blocks and avenues and experience one of the top things to do in NYC in the winter. It truly is one of the most magical things to do this Christmas, and it's free to explore—win-win.
RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Christmas in NYC
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When can I visit the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights 2025?
Most of the homeowners—and professional decorating companies—hang their Christmas lights and decorations the weekend after Thanksgiving. However, the best time to see the lights is mid-December through New Year’s Eve. We suggest going anytime between dusk and 9pm if you plan to travel by foot. Most of the houses turn their displays off after 9pm but some leave theirs on later (depending on their bedtime).
They decor usually stays up until the end of the first week of January.
Where are the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights?
You’ll see breathtaking light displays from 11th to 13th Avenues (also known as Dyker Heights Blvd) from 83rd to 86th St in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn.
How do I get to the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights?
If you’re traveling by subway, take the D Train to 79th St and New Utrecht Ave, Brooklyn. However, you’ll have to walk 15 minutes to get to the houses (and the terrain is a bit hilly). Word to the wise: Traffic, as well as parking, is generally lousy, so you might want to leave your car at home, or leave enough time to sort the car.
Is it worth going to Dyker Heights to see the lights?
The display is truly extraordinary. But keep in mind it can be hard to get to via transit (depending on where you live) and difficult to find parking if you're driving, so be prepared. Also make sure to keep an eye on the weather, so you're not freezing cold or sweating through your parka.
One more tip: It's a very residnential neighborhood, meaning it's tough to find bathrooms nearby, so prepare accordingly.
Are there tours for the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights?
Yes, bus tours are back from A Slice of Brooklyn, Dyker Heights Christmas Lights and many more. There's even a Spanish language tour—vamos!
Is there anything else I should be aware of for the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights?
If you are heading to Dyker Heights this year, be sure to treat the neighborhood like it's your own, starting with keeping properties clean of trash in the name of respect and sanitation. There will be extra receptacles in the area. It should go without saying, but be respectful of people's privacy and don't get too close to anyone's home.
