Long Island’s Massive Drive-Through Holiday Lights Show Is Back — Just 1 Hour From NYC

When the holidays arrive, Jones Beach State Park comes alive with thousands of sparkling lights. Now through January 3, 2026, Magic of Lights is inviting visitors to take a festive drive through elaborate LED displays and digital animations, bringing classic holiday scenes and beloved characters to life. Unlike traditional light shows, this experience keeps you warm and cozy in your own car, making it perfect for families, friends, and even your four-legged companions (dogs are welcome to get in on the festive fun too, so long as they stay inside the car!). 🎅 Holiday Village & Santa Photos -------------------------------- Magic of Lights isn’t just about the lights. The Holiday Village offers themed food, drink, and shopping, while Santa photos give families a chance to snap a festive memory. Every turn reveals another vibrant scene, from snow-covered cottages to twinkling forests, creating a magical, storybook atmosphere you’ll want to experience again and again. 🎟️ Tickets, Pricing, and Vehicle Options ---------------------------------------- Tickets are sold per vehicle, not per person, which means you can pack the car with family or friends without paying extra! * Weekday tickets (Mon–Thurs) – $34.33 online / $39 at the gate * Any-day tickets – $39.76 online / $44 at the gate * Limos, party buses, and larger vehicles – special dedicated pricing ✨ Tips for a Smooth Visit ------------------------- For a faster entry, consider a Dash Pass, which lets you bypass the main line–which can get *verryyyy* long. Keep your headlights off or dimmed while driving through, and don’t forget to snap photos from inside the car. One vehicle pass grants one full drive-through, unless otherwise noted for special promotions. 💞 Why You’ll Love Magic of Lights --------------------------------- Whether you’re a Long Island local or visiting from New York City, Magic of Lights offers a magical holiday outing just an hour from Manhattan. It’s perfect for cozy car dates, family nights, or even a festive solo adventure. With dazzling lights, Santa, and seasonal fun waiting around every turn, this is one holiday tradition you won’t want to miss. ❄️ Event Details: ----------------- * Dates – Now through January 3, 2026 (closed December 31) * Hours – Sun-Thurs 5 pm – 10 pm | Fri-Sat 5 pm – 11 pm * Location – 350 Bay Parkway, Wantagh, NY 11793 Learn more on Magic of Lights’ website. 🚗 Getting There from NYC ------------------------ Reaching Magic of Lights at Jones Beach State Park is surprisingly easy, making it a perfect last-minute holiday outing for New Yorkers. The drive from Manhattan typically takes about one hour , depending on traffic. Just hop on the Southern State Parkway or Meadowbrook State Parkway and follow signs into the park–the glowing entrance to the light show is impossible to miss once you arrive on Bay Parkway. Source: https://secretnyc.co/long-island-magic-of-lights-holiday-show/