This article is all about the Dyker Heights holiday lights in Brooklyn, New York and what to know if you want to visit during your trip to New York City for Christmas.
If you’re heading to New York City for Christmas and looking to soak in some extra holiday magic, you have to check out the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights in Brooklyn!
It’s like something out of a movie, but way more magical because you get to experience it firsthand.
Trust me, it’s one of those things that’s so uniquely New York, and if you haven’t been before, you’re in for a treat!
The Dyker Heights holiday lights is something I’ve done twice now when I’ve visited New York for Christmas, and it’s always one of my favourite New York Christmas activities.
I wanted to put together this Dyker Heights Christmas lights guide to help you plan your own visit to Dyker Heights to see the incredible houses lit up for Christmas.
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Everything to Know About Visiting the Dyker Heights Holiday Lights in Brooklyn 2026
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about this year’s Dyker Heights Holiday lights.
Including the best streets to walk around, houses you must see, the Dyker Heights Holiday lights schedule and where to eat and drink around the neighbourhood.
Do let me know if you have any questions in the comments about your upcoming visit, but you can also see everything we get up to at Christmas in New York in my New York YouTube vlogs below:
A Quick History of the Dyker Heights Holiday Lights
This over-the-top tradition began in the 1980s with one woman, Lucy Spata, who went all out decorating her house to honour her late mother.
Eventually, the entire neighbourhood joined in, and it has since grown into an unofficial competition with bigger and brighter displays each year.
Now, the Dyker Heights Christmas lights attracts thousands of visitors who come to see the spectacle of lights, inflatable Santas, glowing snowmen, and even animatronic reindeer.
It’s a neighbourhood that fully embraces the festive spirit, and you can feel that energy as soon as you step foot in it.
Where is the Dyker Heights Holiday Lights?
Dyker Heights is a residential neighbourhood in southwest Brooklyn.
The prime area to see the lights is between 11th and 13th Avenues and from 83rd to 86th Streets.
The best part? You can stroll through at your own pace, stopping at the most extravagant houses, and really soak in the festive atmosphere.
When do the Dyker Heights Holiday Lights 2026 Start?
The residents of Dyker Heights typically put their Christmas decorations and lights up the weekend after Thanksgiving.
If you’re visiting in December, then you can definitely bet you’ll see the lights in their full glory.
The lights are then usually taken down in early January, but all houses will be different.
How to Get to Dyker Heights from Manhattan
It’s a bit of a journey from Manhattan, but definitely worth it! Here’s how you can get there:
How to Get to Dyker Heights by Subway
Hop on the D train from Midtown and ride it down to 79th Street in Brooklyn. From there, it’s about a 15-20 minute walk to the heart of the action.
This is the route we always take to Dyker Heights.
How to Get to Dyker Heights by Bus
If walking isn’t your vibe, you can take the B1 bus from the train station to get you closer.
How to Get to Dyker Heights by Taxi or Car
If you want to make things super easy, just grab a rideshare like Uber. Dyker Heights parking can be tough during peak hours, but if you’re patient, you’ll find a spot eventually!
Why You Should Visit the Dyker Heights Holiday Lights
Now, I know New York has a ton of holiday attractions, and you might be wondering, “Why should I go all the way to Brooklyn just to see some lights?”
But trust me, it’s more than just lights!
The Dyker Heights Holiday lights displays are like a local, authentic, over-the-top Christmas tradition.
It’s a completely different vibe from the touristy Rockefeller tree or department store windows.
You’re seeing real houses, decked out to the max, in a way that feels both charming and awe-inspiring.
Plus, many families have been doing this for decades, and their passion for holiday decorating is next-level.
RELATED article to read: How to Spend Christmas Day in New York City
3 Must-See Dyker Heights Holiday Lights Houses
There are a few standout homes you absolutely don’t want to miss:
- The Spata House Dyker Heights (84th Street and 12th Avenue): This is where it all began, so it’s iconic! Expect a whole lot of lights, life-size Santas, and some holiday music playing in the background.
- Polizzotto House (14th Avenue and 84th Street): You’ll know this one by its giant 29-foot toy soldiers standing guard and the massive amount of decorations. It’s a showstopper.
- Sam the Greek’s House (71st Street and 14th Avenue): This one’s a bit more classic and elegant with synchronized lights that have a calming, yet festive, vibe.
Where to Eat and Drink in Dyker Heights
After wandering around in the cold (and taking a million photos), you’re probably going to want to warm up and grab something to eat or drink.
Here are some local Dyker Heights restaurants you’ll want to check out:
- Annabelle’s Pastaria: Perfect for a quick, delicious bowl of pasta after all that walking. It’s over on 86th Street, not too far from the main light displays.
- Twist Coffee: This is your go-to spot for warming up with a hot chocolate or coffee. Plus, they have some tasty pastries if you need a little something sweet.
- Little Cupcake Bakeshop: Not exactly close to the Dyker Heights holiday lights, but a short drive away in Bay Ridge. If you’re in the mood for cupcakes (which is always a good idea), this place is a must.
- Dyker Heights Boulevard: Want to do a little shopping while you’re in the area? There are plenty of small, local stores along this stretch where you can grab gifts or just take in more of the neighbourhood’s charm.
Top Tips for Your Visit to the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Below is some must-know info about your visit to Dyker Heights holiday lights.
- Best Time to Visit Dyker Heights Holiday Lights: The lights typically start going up around Thanksgiving and stay up until New Year’s. Try to visit between 5 PM and 9 PM for the best experience.
- Visiting the Dyker Heights Holiday Lights on Weeknights: If you can, go on a weekday! Weekends get super crowded, but weeknights are much more relaxed.
- What to Wear to the Dyker Heights Holiday Lights: It’s going to be cold! Dress in layers and grab that hot chocolate to keep your hands warm as you stroll.
The Best Walking Route Around the Dyker Heights Holiday Lights
To get the most out of your Dyker Heights light tour, start at 83rd Street and 12th Avenue. This is where the Spata House (the one that started it all) is located.
From there, walk down 83rd Street and turn up 11th Avenue, where you’ll see some beautifully decorated homes.
Then head over to 84th Street, where you’ll find several key spots, like the Polizzotto House and many others with massive displays.
Continue on 13th Avenue as you explore the blocks between 83rd and 86th Streets, checking out the different houses as you go.
Make sure to zigzag across streets to see all the lights, but keep the area between 11th and 13th Avenues as your main route, since that’s where most of the action is.
Is Dyker Heights A Safe Neighbourhood?
Absolutely! Dyker Heights is a quiet, residential neighbourhood and is considered one of the safer areas in Brooklyn.
The holiday lights attract tons of families, tourists, and locals alike, so the streets are usually bustling with people during the evening hours.
You’ll find police presence and plenty of others exploring the lights with you, which adds to the feeling of safety.
Like anywhere in NYC, it’s always smart to stay aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re traveling at night, but overall, Dyker Heights is a safe and family-friendly destination.
Additional Christmas Activities in Brooklyn
If you’re heading to Brooklyn for the Dyker Heights holiday lights, there are plenty of other festive activities to check out while you’re in the borough.
One must-visit is the Brooklyn Winter Flea Market, which pops up in Dumbo and is perfect for unique holiday shopping. Think vintage finds, handmade gifts, and delicious food vendors.
You can also lace up your skates and hit the ice rink at Prospect Park, which has a beautiful, scenic vibe.
So, for a cozy holiday experience, head to Industry City for their holiday lights display, pop-up shops, and seasonal treats like hot cocoa and mulled wine.
And of course, don’t miss Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Lightscape, a magical after-dark experience with incredible light installations that will make your holiday season extra bright!
Why Christmas is the Most Magical Time to Visit New York
New York City is magical any time of year, but there’s an undeniable charm when the holiday season rolls around. It’s like the whole city gets a sprinkle of festive magic.
Christmas in NYC is an experience like no other. And there’s a reason why so many holiday movies are set against its sparkling skyline.
Everywhere you go, the city is draped in twinkling lights, giant ornaments, and elaborate window displays that make you feel like you’re walking through a winter wonderland.
Whether it’s the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, with its iconic ice rink below. Or the charming holiday markets at Bryant Park and Union Square.
You can’t help but get swept up in the excitement.
But it’s not just the well-known landmarks that shine at Christmas. Neighbourhoods like Dyker Heights in Brooklyn, with their incredible holiday light displays, bring out the city’s community spirit, making the season feel even more special.
What really makes NYC at Christmas unforgettable is the unique combination of big-city energy and small moments of holiday warmth.
You could be watching a Broadway show one minute, sipping mulled wine at a cozy pop-up shop the next, or walking through a quiet, snow-dusted street under the glow of holiday lights.
It’s these contrasts: the hustle and bustle mixed with the intimate, festive moments, that make Christmas in New York so enchanting.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back to relive the magic, New York City at Christmas is something you’ll remember forever.
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By Orlagh Shanks
Orlagh Shanks is the Editor of Orlagh Claire, an award-winning travel and lifestyle blog.
After working in the PR & Influencer Marketing industry, Orlagh quit her job to travel Asia for 12 months and moved to Sydney, Australia where she is now a full-time travel blogger and content creator sharing travel tips and recommendations for all 30 of the countries she’s visited so far.
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