Every holiday season, the Brooklyn neighborhood of Dyker Heights becomes one of New York’s most dazzling sights, as homeowners compete to create extravagant Christmas light displays with giant figures, music and animatronics. The tradition grew from a few homes in the 1980s into a destination that draws huge crowds. The best displays are generally around 83rd to 86th Streets between 11th and 13th Avenues, from after Thanksgiving until the New Year, typically best viewed after dark in the early evening.

At a glance
Neighborhood Dyker Heights, Brooklyn (near Bay Ridge)
Best area Around 83rd–86th Streets, 11th–13th Avenues
Season Late November to early January
Best time Early evening, weekdays

Tips

  • Go on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds.
  • Dress warmly — you’ll be walking.
  • Be respectful: these are private homes in a residential neighborhood.
  • Don’t plan to park — streets are congested and tour buses are common.

Getting there

Public transit (the D train to 79th Street or the R train to 86th Street, then walking) works, but with children or in the cold, a car drop-off at one end and pickup at the other is easiest. Combine it with dinner in nearby Bay Ridge.

Holiday tours

Many visitors combine Dyker Heights with the Rockefeller Center tree and Fifth Avenue holiday windows in an evening tour. Our hourly service makes a multi-stop holiday lights tour easy.

The history of the displays

What began with a few families decorating their homes grew into elaborate displays with giant figures, music and professional installations. The neighborhood’s generous lots and stately homes made room for ambitious designs, and word of mouth — then social media — turned it into a citywide attraction.

Being a good visitor

Residents welcome visitors, but it’s a living neighborhood: stay on sidewalks, don’t block driveways, keep noise down late in the evening, and don’t touch the displays. Some homes accept donations for charity.