Almost everyone has heard of Dyker Heights Christmas decorations. Like the Alps in winter and Paris in the spring, Dyker Heights at Christmas has earned its fame as a seasonal Brooklyn tourist attraction. It’s as much Brooklyn as the Coney Island Mermaid Parade and the Brooklyn Book Festival.
Visiting Dyker Heights at Christmas is one thing , a cultural phenomenon that’s part of the soul of Brooklyn’s remarkable array of traditions. Not only are the exhibits in the area beautiful, the experience is fun, memorable, and really worth a visit, especially if you get excited about the Christmas festivities, love folk art, and have young children in tow.
What’s the fuss over Dyker Heights at Christmas?
Well, the fuss is simple: Local residents in this predominantly and historically Italian neighborhood outshine each other with over the top Christmas light decorations. It is estimated that more than 100,000 tourists come to see this neighborhood’s outpouring of creativity and fun, as lights spill over their homes, roofs and gardens. Kids will be impressed by the myriad of Christmas decorations that typically include Rudolphs on the rooftop in bright lighting, Santas on the lawn, and entire houses on fire.
It’s not a rich or glitzy neighborhood, but Dyker Heights, adjacent to Bensonhurst and for decades a stronghold of Italian-Americans, takes Christmas seriously. Neighborhood residents also love to share in the celebration, inviting everyone to join in and have fun.
Where to go in Dyker Heights
Check out the dazzling Christmas light displays on 11-13 avenues and 83-86 streets. Note that 13th Avenue in this neighborhood is also called Dyker Heights Blvd.
When to see the Christmas lights in Dyker Heights
Neighborhood light displays generally go up after Thanksgiving. For the best experience, go for dinner, when the locals settle in after work. The lights are usually turned on around 5 pm to 11 pm, depending on the house.
When traveling to the area, keep in mind that the lights are turned off before bed, otherwise the entire neighborhood would be deprived of sleep.
How to Get to the Dyker Heights Christmas Light Display Subway
Depending on where you are traveling, you can drive, take a tour bus, or walk to Dyker Heights. If you drive or take a bus, be patient; As the media has touted this grassroots attraction, there have actually been traffic jams on the streets of Dyker Heights during the Christmas season. So, consider these public transportation options:
- Take the D train to Coney Island and get off at 79th Street in Brooklyn
- Exit near the intersection of 79th Street and New Utrecht Avenue
- Start by going northwest on 79th Street towards 16th Avenue
- Turn left on Dyker Heights Blvd., aka 13th Avenue, and enjoy the views!
About Brooklyn Christmas Lights Bus Tours
Depending on the weather, you may consider taking a Christmas lights bus tour. Sign up for the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour through A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours.
