One of the best parts of the holiday season is the glittering lights and snazzy decorations, and we all know about the city’s plethora of holiday trees. But here are four under-the-radar spots to see holiday lights that Manhattanites might not immediately think of that are definitely, totally worth seeing:
1. Holiday Light Spectacular
South Slope’s Holiday Light Spectacular is the amazing two-man show of homeowner Chris Schneider and friend Ryan Powers, who make all their displays by hand. Each annual show features a different theme and storyline—think “The Grinch House” to 1950s styles–and this year it’s North Pole’s Got Talent. Shows are every 20 minutes from 5-11pm daily. 310A 22nd Street, Brooklyn.
2. Dyker Heights
To the locals, the Dyker Heights region of Brooklyn is notorious for having some of the most brilliant holiday light displays in all of the tri-state area, with decorations lasting from until the end of January. As the light displays are easiest to access by car, the public transit-dependent can take advantage of A Slice of Brooklyn’s Christmas Lights & Cannoli Bus Tour, which departs from Union Square every night through December 31.83rd – 86th Streets between 11th and 13th Avenues, Brooklyn.
3. Santa’s Corner and The Christmas House
The brightest and most elaborate holiday light displays in Queens are without question in the Bayside neighborhood, particularly at one intersection that has been nicknamed “Santa’s Corner.” If you’re traveling by car, a quick trip across the Whitestone Bridge will also take you to the Garabedian Family’s Christmas House in the Bronx’s Baychester region. This truly one-of-a-kind Christmas House depicts nativity and other scenes with full-size mannequins in Hollywood-themed gowns. We love that both locations give all donations to a local church and children’s charity. 166th Street and 23rd Avenue, Queens; 605 Pelham Parkway North and Westervelt Avenue, Bronx.
4. Winter Garden Holiday Lights
The World Financial Center is keeping with its 23-year-old tradition of putting on the most radiant and elegant light displays in its glass-enclosed Winter Garden. This year, the garden will feature more than 50,000 beautiful white lights. Stop by 200 Vesey Street.
Know of other under-appreciated neighborhood gems? Tell us in the comments below!
