Lights, Camera, Christmas: The Most Instagram-Worthy Light Displays in NYC

As Christmas approaches, New York City comes alive with a dazzling display of lights, creating a magical tapestry that is perfect for embracing the holiday spirit and for curating your Instagram feed. From glittering, luxurious window decorations to elaborate light shows to hidden gems, Christmas in New York is nothing short of spectacular. If you’re looking for unparalleled holiday photos with friends or family, be sure to explore New York City’s hundreds of light displays. For your convenience, though, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best festive light displays in the city.

Without further ado, here are the must-see light displays that exhibit the best New York City has to offer this Christmas. From Rockefeller Center to the New York Botanical Garden, these sights will leave you in awe.

Dyker Heights

Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighborhood is known for its annual jaw-dropping display of Christmas extravagance, which rivals any other light display in the city. Residents of Dyker Heights go all out each holiday season, lining their stoops and lawns with everything from larger-than-life inflatable Santas and cascading lights to animated reindeer and more. Some homes even play Christmas music throughout the season, creating an all-encompassing experience. There are even tour groups that run tours of the Dyker Heights Christmas lights!

Rockefeller Center

An iconic symbol of New York City Christmases, Rockefeller Center is absolutely decked out every holiday season, from its famed tree to its enchanting holiday spirit. The tree has nearly 50,000 lights and a gigantic Swarovski crystal star, a breathtaking scene that is a must-see for visitors to New York City. Rockefeller Center also boasts a skating rink and private Après Skate Chalets — with seasonal drinks — decked out in festive lights, creating a picture-perfect scene. 

Amaze Light Festival

If you’re looking for a contemporary, immersive light experience, head to the Amaze Light Festival, located in New York City’s Citi Field. This year, it is expected to be attended by over 400,000 guests, all brought together to enjoy a cutting-edge display of interactive, mesmerizing light sculptures and installations. Visually stunning, this light festival has everything from nightly performances to sweets shops to illuminated tunnels. Lasting from November to January, Amaze Light Festival is an unparalleled celebration of light, artistry and Christmas that can’t be missed. Buy your tickets here. 

Central Park

Located at the heart of Manhattan is a serene and picturesque Christmas light display in Central Park. Though more subdued than some of the other displays on this list, Central Park is a must-visit during the holiday season due to its elegance and classic appeal. Everything from Central Park’s Bow Bridge to Bethesda Terrace is adorned with light, creating a sophisticated, joyous atmosphere. As you walk along Central Park’s tree-lined paths, soak in its enchanting glow this Christmas season. 

Saks Fifth Avenue

Besides fashion, Saks Fifth Avenue is also known for its opulent light shows every holiday season. Starting November 20, the elegant façade of Saks will transform into a visual feast of meticulously crafted light scenes complete with music, every five minutes from the late afternoon into the night. This regularly occurring light show is a spectacular thing to witness, serving as the perfect spot for a glamorous holiday picture that embodies luxury and style. 

New York Botanical Garden

For something a little different, head to the New York Botanical Garden for a beloved holiday tradition, the Holiday Train Show. A huge train display that recreates nearly 200 New York City landmarks in miniature, set in a winter wonderland that highlights the year-round versatility of this gorgeous garden, the Holiday Train Show is nothing you’ve ever seen before. There’s also the New York Botanical Garden GLOW, an outdoor extravaganza that illuminates the entire landscape after dark. For more information about the Train Show and GLOW, head to the NYBG website. 

Seaport District

More of a hidden gem, the historic Seaport District offers a charming and nautical-inspired Christmas light display along its cobblestone streets. The area is adorned with elegant lights and festive decorations that reflect the district’s maritime heritage. The main draw is a huge Christmas tree, perfect for photo ops, against a backdrop of historic buildings and the Brooklyn Bridge. This neighborhood provides a more intimate and refined setting for your holiday photos, showcasing a different side of New York City’s festive spirit.

Hudson Yards

Hudson Yards always goes all out for the Christmas season. This year, the display — named Shine Bright — will feature over two million lights, arranged in a myriad of displays. The lights are made up of over 115 miles of string lights and huge set pieces, all of which can be seen at the luxurious Hudson Yards, a hub of shopping, culture, and dining. Sleek, sophisticated, and spectacular, the lights at Hudson Yards are the perfect accessory to a day of shopping and eating during the holiday season. 

Can’t wait to witness the splendor of Christmas in New York City? Book your stay at The Wallace today.