Top 5 Tips for Visiting the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

A visit to Dyker Heights is a New York wintertime tradition, with both New Yorkers and out-of-state visitors flocking to this otherwise sleepy corner of southeast Brooklyn to admire its extravagant holiday light displays.

1 min read•Dec 16, 2019•By Madigan Talmage-Bowers

Make the most of your trip to this festive Brooklyn neighborhood.

Hi, I'm Madigan!

Madigan Talmage-Bowers is a writer based in Denver, Colorado. She has also lived in Italy, San Francisco, and New York City, where she studied media theory at the New School. She loves introducing her kids to ancient history, local art, hiking trails, and new foods on adventures around the globe.

1. Time it right

Holiday lights are generally installed the weekend after Thanksgiving and remain up through the New Year, though mid-December is the peak time to go. Many residents turn off their lights around 9pm.

2. Know where to go

The most impressive displays are concentrated in a small section of Dyker Heights between 83rd and 86th streets, and 11th and 13th avenues.

3. Prepare to walk

The nearest subway stations (86th Street or 79th/New Utrecht Ave) are both a 15-minute walk from the best lights, so wear comfortable shoes and bundle up if you plan to take the train.

4. Share the goodwill

The lights are free for all to admire, but consider donating to one of the “tip jars” put out by residents to raise money for local charities. Some fundraisers offer hot cocoa or a festive treat to those who donate.

5. Make a night of it

Many eateries are close to the 86th Street subway station, lining 3rd and 4th avenues in Brooklyn’s Bay Ridge neighborhood. Local favorites include Positano for Italian cuisine and Cebu for eclectic American fare.