Out of all the yuletide razzle-dazzle NYC has to offer, the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights 2017 display is by far the most spectacular. (Sorry, Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree). Each year, over 100,000 people flock to the Brooklyn neighborhood to witness some of the most over-the-top Christmas lights we’ve ever seen—think huge inflatable Santa’s and snowmen, and houses that blast Christmas carols from loudspeakers.
Thereis a lot of ground to cover, as many houses in the area participate over multiple blocks and avenues. 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.
Isuggest going anytime between dusk and 9pm, if you plan to travel by foot. Most of the houses turn their displays off after 9pm. If you’re traveling by subway, take the D Train to 71st St, 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.
