For those looking to infuse their holiday season with charm and timeless romance, the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights display stands as the ultimate backdrop for a dreamy date night. Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, this neighborhood transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland each December for all to enjoy.
The Magic in the Lights
Known for its commitment to Christmas pageantry, this area has been a staple of holiday celebrations for decades. The tradition dates back to the 1980s when residents began adorning their homes with extravagant light displays. Over time, Dyker Heights has ballooned in popularity and sees many visitors each year. The sheer scale and effort in these houses is nothing short of stunning; life-sized Santas, glowing nutcrackers, synchronized light shows, and yards completely blanketed in glittering decorations paint such a lovely, almost cinematic picture. Walking through Dyker Heights feels like stepping into a real-life Christmas movie set—perfect for a romantic date night.
In addition to the lights, and maybe more importantly, there’s a strong sense of community. These displays aren’t commercialized; they’re created by families who pour their hearts into spreading holiday cheer, and some of them are even outside to greet passersby. The streets are buzzing with visitors enjoying those efforts, taking pictures, and having churros, and it all feels very communal.
Making the Most of Your Trip
1. Plan the Perfect Time to Visit
As is often the case with holiday activities, timing is incredibly important. Weekdays are your best bet to avoid the heavy crowds, especially between 5pm and 7pm when the lights are bright, but the streets are still manageable. Another option worth considering(particularly for weekends) is visiting after 9pm for an even quieter evening. It’s also important to pick a day that isn’t too cold.
2. Map Out the Best Streets
Most of the neighborhood participates in this festive tradition, so it’s perfectly viable to wander around, but certain blocks are especially famous and more dense with displays. Visitors should be sure to check out 11th Avenue to 13th Avenue and 83rd Street to 86th Street. These streets offer the most elaborate decorations and plenty of picturesque houses.
3. Capture the Perfect Photos
Dyker Heights has countless beautiful backdrops begging to be captured in romantic shots of the displays, glowing streets, and each other. The unique decorations in particular, like animatronic reindeer and hand-carved nativity displays, make for wonderful pictures.
The camera-shy are equally welcome, though. This is the sort of place where the magic of simply walking hand-in-hand around the glow of hundreds of little lights below the moon is memorable on its own.
And of course, prioritize dressing warmly and adding a hint of seasonal flair wherever possible! A festive scarf will never be more warranted.
Cozy Up with Dinner and Dessert
Grand and Lively
Head over to Skinflints, a beloved neighborhood pub absolutely overflowing with holiday spirit. Its vintage decor, hearty American menu, and gorgeous decoration make it a sound compliment to the tour. A weekday visit helps ensure a spot in the dining room, but if not, there’s always the option to settle in at the bar with seasonal cocktails and classic comforts.
Low-Key and Personal
If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxed, walk over to Krispy Pizza—a neighborhood favorite loved for decades for their authentic, family owned, and very high-quality bites. Share a delicious Grandma Pie while savoring each other and that holiday comfort.
Finish with a treat from Tasty Pastry Shoppe, a local gem known for its fantastic cannoli, cakes, and holiday-themed desserts. With so many alluring options on display, you’ll have no choice but to grab some cookies and a cupcake or two to take home for the road to end your night on a sweet note!
Whether you go big with a pub meal or keep it simple with pizza, the lights, tastes, and atmosphere of Dyker Heights guarantees you the quintessential holiday experience.