The holiday season in Westchester is pure magic — twinkling lights, festive displays, and joyful experiences for families, couples, and neighbors alike. Whether you’re into dazzling drive-thru shows, classic walking light displays, or quirky neighborhood favorites, there’s something to brighten every evening through December. Here’s your go-to guide for the best places to see Christmas lights this year.
🎄✨ 1. Westchester’s Winter Wonderland (Valhalla)
If you’re looking for a holiday highlight that feels like a storybook come to life, Westchester’s Winter Wonderland is the place to be. This beloved drive-thru light experience at Kensico Dam Plaza features:
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1.2 miles of holiday lights, including two 100-foot light tunnels and themed installations. Westchester Magazine+1
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Holiday scenes like Candy Cane Lane, Rudolph’s Runway, and a 40-foot Christmas tree. Events Local
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Festive music broadcast into your car’s radio to keep the spirit alive. River Journal
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A seasonal walk-through opening weekend with music, vendors, Santa, and more. Patch
🎟 Tips: Tickets are required and typically range from mid-$30s to low-$40s per vehicle. It runs nightly through December 31 — perfect for date nights or family outings! Mommy Poppins
🌲 2. Grand Holiday Illumination — Untermyer Gardens (Yonkers)
For a classic stroll beneath the lights, head to Untermyer Gardens. Each winter:
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The historic Walled Garden is illuminated with 100,000+ lights, creating a dreamy setting for an evening walk. Westchester Magazine
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This event is free to attend and often accompanied by seasonal music and hot chocolate stations. Westchester Magazine
Whether you come after dinner or as part of a family tradition, the grandeur of this garden makes it one of Westchester’s most loved light displays.
🍎 3. Festival of Lights — Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard (North Salem)
If you love interactive, immersive light experiences, don’t miss the Festival of Lights at Harvest Moon Farm. This seasonal favorite features:
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Over half a million lights illuminating paths, trees, and whimsical scenes. Westchester Magazine
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Firepits, seasonal food and drinks, and cozy spots to linger. Westchester Magazine
This is especially great for families looking for an experience that goes beyond a simple walk or drive-through.
🐄 4. Holiday Lights & Activities at Muscoot Farm (Katonah)
For a community-focused night out, Muscoot Farm’s holiday lights are a treat:
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Lights illuminate pathways around the historic barns and animal areas. Westchester Magazine
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Select weekend nights feature activities, food trucks, and a storytelling walk tied to the lights. Westchester Magazine
It’s perfect for younger kids who want a mix of lights and farm fun.
🏡 5. Local & Neighborhood Favorites
Westchester’s charm shines in its community displays. A few local must-see spots include:
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🎅 Roy’s Christmas Land in Harrison — a nostalgic, longtime neighborhood favorite filled with classic holiday charm. Mommy Poppins
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🍭 Peppermint Christmas in New Rochelle — huge wreaths, sparkling trees, and figurines in a bright, cheerful display. Mommy Poppins
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💡 Keeler Christmas Lights in Putnam Valley (just north of Westchester) — nearly one million lights and featured on TV’s The Great Christmas Light Fight! Mommy Poppins
Neighborhood lights often go up right after Thanksgiving and run through early January — perfect for leisurely evening drives. Mommy Poppins
📍 6. Beyond Westchester: Nearby Holiday Lights
If you want to make it a mini-road trip, consider:
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✨ The Wonderland of Lights at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds — a magical drive-through a short trip north of Westchester with light tunnels and festive themes. Hudson Valley Magazine
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🎄 Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights — globally renowned for its animal-themed light lanterns and immersive trails (easy drive from Westchester). New York Family
These are perfect add-ons for a weekend adventure.
🌟 Pro Tips for Light-Viewing Nights
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Go early on weekdays to avoid crowds and long waits at popular spots. Mommy Poppins
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Bundle up! Many displays are outdoors — seasonal layers make the night much more enjoyable.
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Bring holiday snacks and music for drive-through events like Winter Wonderland. Events Local
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Check event websites for dates, times, and ticket info — some displays require reservations or have limited capacity.
🎁 Whether you’re planning a family tradition, a cozy date night, or a fun outing with friends, Westchester County and the surrounding areas are brimming with holiday lights and festive cheer. Get out there, make memories, and let the glow of the season brighten your nights! 🌟