The holiday season came and went. But in between the magic (or the madness) there was the lull between Christmas and New Year’s where I enjoyed some time off and tons of fun mini adventures with the girls. One of my favorites was having the chance to visit Dyker Heights for their spectacular and over-the-top holiday lights. The spectacle has been bringing tourists and locals to the area since the 1980s that now includes a massive amount of holiday lights, figures, floats and one giant Santa that you’ll find from 83rd to 86th street from 11th to 13 avenues.
The best part of the experience is the self-guided walking tour (there are also several organized ones as well) where you can take in the magic and spectacle of the bright lights and even get close enough to take pictures right next to some of the festive lights and life-like figurines. Much of the magic of this tradition has remained the same and how this visit has become a tradition where the girls get to see a place that’s so close to where I grew up.
There’s also been some nice additions over the years where you can now purchase hot chocolate and cookies by houses and even dance in the streets to a DJ. Going off-season was also a treat where I noticed many cars where able to park right on 83rd a.k.a the center of the lights! It was also easier to navigate and take pictures as there were less people during this time.
And my favorite part – enjoying a free and easy activity with the girls that made them so elated and happy. We finished off our Brooklyn adventure with cookies and hot chocolates from Tasty Pastry where you can literally get any cake, cookie, or cannoli that your heart desires.
Here’s a collection of a few of our favorite illuminated homes that you can check out:
