I originally wrote this article in 2009… here’s the updated 2024 version!
Since 2010, I’ve been hosting VivereNewYork meetups EVERY SINGLE YEAR (yes, even in 2020!) to spend a magical day together surrounded by the extraordinary Dyker Heights Christmas Lights. And if you’re wondering, there were stunning decorations even during the pandemic – everyone wanted to keep the magic alive, ESPECIALLY during such a challenging time.
Over the years, some houses have been sold, and sadly, one of my favorites hasn’t been decorated for the past four years. You can see it at the end of this video I took in 2013 during a VivereNewYork meetup 😊 – it’s the house at the end, with the huge Santa and two carousels! Renovations are now done, so fingers crossed for its big comeback in 2024! 🤞✨
Your Ultimate Guide to the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights 🎄✨
Dyker Heights is THE place to be for Christmas magic. Known for its Italian-American roots, this Brooklyn neighborhood has taken holiday decorating to a whole new level over the years. Rumors are that homeowners compete to create the most extravagant and dazzling displays, drawing visitors from all over the world.
Fun fact: in 2001, PBS created a documentary titled “Dyker Lights”, which shows all the behind-the-scenes effort that goes into these jaw-dropping displays.
My Personal Dyker Heights Itinerary
Here’s exactly how I usually explore Dyker Heights during the Holidays in our VivereNewYork meetups:
- Take the R or N train to 77th St Station in Brooklyn, and either walk or take an Uber to 📍635 79th Street, Brooklyn, New York.
- Kick it off by the most spectacular house in Bay Ridge , Brooklyn – 635 79th Street – it’s the perfect way to start your evening in wonder!
- Walk over 82nd Street and 10th avenue (don’t get distracted by all the lights.. you’ll walk back to those while zigzagging).
- ZigZag between 82nd and 84th Streets and 12th and 10th Avenues for the most incredible decorations.
- Swing by La Bella Marketplace (79th Street & 13th Ave) to stock up on Italian-imported goodies. It’s a MUST for all Italian expats like me!
- Stop by Tasty Pastry Shoppe (13th Ave between 82nd & 83rd Streets) for their famous cannolis and Cassate Siciliane – both are absolutely delicious!!! Years ago, our dear friends Kathy and Steve (Steve was born and raised in the neighborhood) introduced me to this gem, and now every time I’m in the area, I make sure I grab some treats. Their Christmas popsicle are adorable as well!
- Visit the family-owned JJ Christmas on 86th St and 13th Ave for the cutest Christmas decorations. I’m personally in love with their holiday clocks!
- Head to the D train at 18th Ave Station in Brooklyn by waking or taking the B1 bus to Manhattan Beach Kingsborough CC for 5 stops – getting off at 86 St/18 Av and then walk for about 3 min to the subway.
- Optional Finale: Switch to the R train at Atlantic Av/Barclay Center (on the same platform, simply get off the D train and wait for the R train), and get off at Jay St station. In about 4 min walk you can end the evening with an authentic Neapolitan style pizza at Sottocasa (298 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn). I might be biased since my husband Luca is one of the owners, but it’s REALLY DELICIOUS!!! 🍕 From there, you’ll find plenty of subway options to get you home – or grab on of the many cabs in the area if you’re too tired (it’s a long day, lol!).
Some of my favorite displays:
Don’t miss these:
📍635 79th Street
📍84th St & 10th Ave
📍84th St between 10th & 11th Aves
📍84th St between 11th & 12th Aves
📍83rd St between 10th & 11th Aves
📍82nd St between 12th & 13th Aves
📍14th Ave, between 71st & 72nd Sts
TIPS & FAQs:
- When Are the Dyker Heights Houses Fully Decorated?
The displays typically start lighting up the weekend after Thanksgiving and stay up through New Year’s Eve. - What’s the Best Time to Visit Dyker Heights?
For fewer crowds: Visit at dusk on a weekday.
For more festive vibes: Go on a weekend, where you might catch carolers, Santas, and food trucks selling hot chocolate or ice cream. - Is Dyker Height, Brooklyn, Safe?
YES! Dyker Heights is a residential neighborhood, so you can feel comfortable walking around. The subway is safe too, it’s how I always get around in NYC – at any time of the day or night! Just keep in mind there’s a 10–15 minute walk from the nearest station to the most spectacular houses. You’ll see plenty of lights and decorations along the way, but trust me – he best displays are worth the walk!
What’s the best organized Dyker Heights Christmas Lights tour?
There are so many to chose from! I recommend booking a trusted site like Viator – they guarantee the lowest prices (if you find the same tour cheaper online within 48 hours of your trip, they’ll refund the difference). If you book one of these Viator tours through my affiliate link, you’ll support my work at no extra cost to you – THANK YOU!!!
Here are the ones I’d suggest:
– Dyker Heights Brooklyn Christmas Lights Tour (from $55 per person, tip not included). The meeting point is at 1651 Broadway, New York (McDonald’s at the corner of West 51st & Broadway, near Times Square), and the drop-off is in Times Square. A comfortable shuttle will take you to Brooklyn, where you’ll walk through the neighborhoods with a guide and hear the stories behind this fun holiday tradition.
– Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Guided Tour (from $59 per person, tip not included). The meeting point is at 566 10th Ave, New York (corner of 41st Street) around 4 PM, and the drop-off is in Bryant Park around 8 PM. You’ll ride to Brooklyn by bus (with a restroom on board), and your guide will take you to the two most illuminated streets and orient you. You’ll then have an hour to explore and take pictures on your own before heading back to the bus.
Ready for the 2024 VivereNewYork Meetup? 🎉
It’s FREE, and it’s happening on Tuesday, November 3, 2024!
We’ll meet at a café in SoHo to connect, grab coffee (or hot chocolate), and say hello. Then, we’ll head to Dyker Heights together for a stroll through the most magical houses. It’s not an organized tour, so stay close to the group!
👉 Read all details and SIGN UP here.
You can’t make it? No worries! You can still plan your own self-guided tour using my tips and map above: you got this!
The Dyker Heights Christmas lights are worth the trip – you’ll be MESMERIZED!!!!
It’s one of the most magical experiences both for kids and for adults. I’ve been with many kids before, and they all did great! However, make sure they are ready for a LONG WALK.
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