The state of New York is known for many things, but playing small is not one of them. New York is known for doing things in a big way: Niagara Falls, the Empire State Building, the bright lights of Times Square, the Adirondack Mountains, the Hudson River Valley, Central Park, Woodstock, the Apollo Theater, the New York Knicks, and so much more. And if you are visiting this awesome state before the end of the year, many delightful experiences await you. With the colder temperatures and snowy winters, the holidays seem just a bit more festive in New York.
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And, there’s nothing quite like celebrating Christmas in places like New York City, because there are so many delightful things to do. From ice-skating in Rockefeller Plaza, sipping hot chocolate in a cozy Igloo chalet in Bryant Park, watching the Light Show at Saks on Fifth Avenue, seeing the gorgeous holiday décor and tree lighting at the Lotte New York Palace, and experiencing the beauty and glamour of The Plaza during the holidays. And, for those who prefer an out-of-the-box adventure, there are experiences like the Holiday Lights and Movie Sites tour, which is an entertaining, movie-themed journey through many of Manhattan’s most iconic holiday locations.
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But with all the fun possibilities for unique experiences in New York, there’s something extra special about a good, old-fashioned look at beautifully decorated homes and lawns for the Christmas season. And, when it comes to holiday lights, nothing beats the Christmas decorations and holiday spirit in Dyker Heights.
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Dyker Heights, affectionately known as “Dyker Lights,” is a suburban residential community in Brooklyn, New York, where most homes boast beautiful curb appeal. It has often been described as one of the most Christmassy communities in the US. Over time, most of the locals have grown to love and participate in the neighborhood’s over-the-top tradition, which began in the 1980s, when resident Lucy Spata and her mother started decorating their home to spread joy and holiday cheer. The tradition has evolved over the decades, with almost all members of the community decking their homes out in some of the most elaborate Christmas lights and decorations imaginable, including a 15-foot Santa.
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But this community is not just a well-curated holiday display; it is fantastical and whimsical, in the most positive, joy-filled way—think Home Alone decorations multiplied by 100!
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While most enjoy experiencing Dyker Heights by walking through the neighborhood, there are several holiday tour buses for those who do not want to drive through traffic or who are not interested in braving the cold. Tours like A Slice of Brooklyn offer heated buses, comfort, candy canes, and the opportunity to get photo ops in front of some of the most popular homes, like “Christmas Meets Las Vegas!”
What I love most about the Dyker Heights bus tour is the sense of nostalgia—seeing all the families and kids so excited about the lights continues a tradition that spans generations. The excitement on faces, childlike wonder and zeal, and the sense of unity among the community are so refreshing and heartwarming. And, the feeling is contagious, because more than 100,000 families flock to Dyker Heights during the holidays to experience the joy that this neighborhood tradition brings.
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Are you feeling inspired to add a fun tour to your itinerary when you visit New York? Be sure to check out the lovely trending vacation rentals in New York and use the Only In Your State Itinerary Planner to create a customized vacation for your next visit to New York!
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