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Everyone could use some good cheer this holiday season. The Hudson Valley is home to a number of gorgeous seasonal light displays and even boasts the world record-holding house for most Christmas lights. Time-honored local traditions have transformed into events that are both safe and inventive. So, are you ready to celebrate? Grab a cup of hot cocoa, don your hat and scarf, and crank up your radio while visiting these festive, illuminated displays.
A Frosty Fest
Ulster Park
November 29 – December 22
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This holiday spectacular boasts over one million lights and features 14 holiday attractions, live entertainment, photos with Santa, gift shops, and much more. Reservations are recommended for festgoers on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings.
Arboretum Holiday Lights in Bloom
Orange County Arboretum, Montgomery
November 29 – December 29
The Orange County Arboretum hosts a free light display every year titled “Holiday Lights in Bloom.” Few things compare to strolling along themed walking paths lined with luscious gardens, decorated trees, and even some bright critters. Handmade ornaments, hats, scarves, wreaths, and other decorations are available at the Arboretum Holiday Boutique.
Bruschi Christmas
Wallkill
November 29 – January 1
The Bruschi home has been wowing visitors since 2012. The family goes all out with over 30,000 lights, inflatables, and handmade decorations. The show runs from 5-11 p.m. each night. It’s a beautiful display that you won’t want to miss!
ERDAJT Holiday Christmas
Lagrangeville
November 29 – December 28
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The Gay family currently holds two Guinness World Records for the most lights on a residential property, and the display holds the 2024 Best of Hudson Valley title for Best Christmas Attraction. Colorful bulbs adorn their family home and trees and reflect beautifully on the pond in their yard. Donations are taken for the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie.
Lumina
Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard, North Salem
November 22 – December 30
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Visit the farm this holiday season for a magical walk-through light experience. The displays contain over half a million brilliant lights that dazzle in whimsical creatures, light-changing orbs, thematic installations, and interactive light displays. Walk through illuminated tunnels as you slip into this nighttime fantasy world with a warm drink in hand.
Holiday Lane at Christmas in America
Christmas in America, Mount Vernon
Through December 29
True to its name, Christmas in America goes big for the holiday season. The Mount Vernon brand, known for creating incredible light displays in New York, adds a major dose of sparkle to Westchester with a luminous setup throughout December. Go for the maze of over 100,000 lights, and don’t forget to stop for a picture with Santa on special days. Plus, since the event is indoors, there’s no need to worry about loading on layer after layer to keep away the chill. This event is ideal for the entire family, with reservations required. Cost ranges between $10 to $15 per person, and all proceeds go toward several Mount Vernon nonprofit organizations.
Kevin McCurdy’s Holiday Spirit Festival: Winter Wonderland Walk
Wappingers Falls
November 29 – December 23
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Kevin McCurdy’s Christmas classic is a Hudson Valley mainstay. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this year’s iteration will be the biggest show yet with over 15 attractions. Perfect for families, this magical holiday journey takes visitors through an illuminated Gingerbread Village, past magical musical trees, and into the Christmas Canyon for a laser lights show. Reservations are required, so make sure you get your tickets ahead of time.
Lights on Six
Poughkeepsie
November 29 – December 31
A little family competition never hurt anyone. Now, the family works together to get the lights up at 6 Field Court in Poughkeepsie for this festive and dazzling affair. Viewers can tune into 87.9 FM to hear holiday music and children can bring their letters to Santa to the house as it is an approved drop-off location for the North Pole.
Nyack Holiday Lights
Gazebo on Main Street, Nyack
December 6, 6 p.m.
The Nyack Chamber of Commerce hosts another spectacular event, this time with hot chocolate and holiday lights. Check the Chamber’s Facebook page for updates on start times. Enjoy a visit with the man in the red suit himself, along with holiday refreshments.
Peace, Love & Lights
Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Bethel
November 29 – December 29
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Turn off your headlights and follow the glow through 1.7 miles of the Bethel Woods campus to see illuminated and themed areas including Holidays Around the World, New York, the Enchanted Forest, and Groovy Way. Tickets for standard vehicles cost $32. Enjoy the holiday magic from the comfort of your car!
The Wonderland of Lights
Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck
November 28 – December 29
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Back by popular demand, this mile-long drive through the Dutchess County Fairgrounds features magical light tunnels and whimsical displays. The hundreds of dazzling displays will delight family and friends alike! The show officially opens on November 28, and it will open nightly from December 12-29. Tickets are available online or at the gate.
Watt Christmas Wonderland
Goshen
November 29 – December 29
Hundreds of lights and dozens of inflatables make up this holiday display in Goshen. With a light tunnel, nativity scene, and several dedications to the U.S. troops, Watt’s is sure to spark your holiday spirit.
Westchester’s Winter Wonderland
Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
November 23 – December 31
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Westchester’s Winter Wonderland arrives to set the county aglow all holiday season long. This year, the fest takes on a 1.2-mile drive-through format that leads visitors along a path filled with thousands of twinkling lights. The gorgeous candy cane lane is only surpassed by the 40-foot Christmas tree. Plus, be on the lookout for a special sighting of Santa. New additions in recent years include Kaleidoscope Alley and a 125-foot pixel wall.
Related: Get Lit at These Hudson Valley Tree Lighting Ceremonies
