Who couldn’t use a little holiday cheer right about now? Fortunately, there is a great way to feel merry while also social distancing, and you’ll find it at Coney Island Amusement Park with Christmas Nights of Lights, a drive-through holiday light event for all ages. Prepare to be dazzled as you meander through an over 2.5-mile route that’s full of colorful light displays set to holiday music, drive through a 300-foot tunnel, and marvel at a 50-foot mega tree with sparkly starbursts and a gingerbread Candyland scene that will delight everyone — all from the comfort of your own vehicle.
Whether you’re visiting Christmas Nights of Lights with your kids or making it a holiday date night, here are some pro tips to help make your experience extra merry.
Know When to Go
To avoid the crowds, plan your visit on a weekday. Mondays and Wednesdays are especially great for experiencing shorter wait times. If the weekend is more your thing, make a night of it and plan to have dinner first, and then stop by around 9 pm when the crowds will have slowed. Christmas Nights of Lights is open until 10 pm daily. It is also open rain, shine or snow, so no matter the weather, the show will go on!
Bring the Whole Fam
Christmas Nights of Lights is the perfect holiday activity for the entire family because there is no walking, and you never need to get out of your car. Plus, since you never leave the car, you’re automatically social distancing! It’s a win-win for everyone. Tickets are $7 per person, and children under 3 years of age are free.
Buy Your Tickets at the Gate
Last-minute planners, rejoice! You can only purchase tickets for Christmas Nights of Lights at the gate (major credit cards and cash accepted), so there is no need to pre-purchase tickets beforehand.
Plan for Potty Stops and Grumbly Tummies in Advance
One thing that you WILL want to plan ahead for is a restroom visit before you visit Christmas Nights of Lights. The 2.5-mile scene will take approximately 25 to 30 minutes to experience, and there are no pit stops along the way. Portable toilets are located at the entrance to the show, so visitors with young kids will want to make sure to visit those before getting in line. Be sure to also pack some hand sanitizer!
It’s also a smart idea to pack some snacks and drinks for the ride. Nothing puts a damper in the holiday spirit like a “hangry” attitude!
Turn On Your Radio, Turn Off Your Headlights
To really immerse yourself in the magic, set your radio dial to Christmas Nights of Lights’ radio station. They will let you know the station numbers at check-in. The station plays new and classic Christmas tunes, and all of the light displays are synchronized to the music.
And to preserve the magic for everyone else, turn off your headlights at check-in and keep them off throughout your visit. Trust us: You — and everyone else — will be able to see the light show much better this way!
Put Your Observational Skills to Work
Make a game of your visit and try to find the eight elves that are hiding throughout Christmas Nights of Lights. Look carefully — those elves can be sneaky!
Stay Informed
Check out the Christmas Nights of Lights Facebook page to stay up-to-date with special events that may happen throughout the season.
