Holiday Hi-Lights by Zachary Pearson
For many people, the Holidays just aren't complete without that certain something — Grandma's "secret" cookie recipe, hanging a treasured, homemade ornament on the tree, wearing matching pajamas while watching Holiday movies and sipping seasonal beverages, the list goes on. For me, it's all about the lights. As an art form, I am always excited to see how light is used to transform our environment into something out of the ordinary and delighted to experience the endless possibilities that lights have to create magic and enchantment for all to enjoy during the Holiday season.
Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
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Closes January 4, 2026
Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden has returned and is my top pick if you only have time to see one venue. There are twenty installations by a variety of artists and, once again, from the interactive "Shadow Play" entrance path, to the dancing fountain water show to the stunning exhibits throughout, you will be left breathless, inspired and exhilarated as you travel around every twist of the path.
Stroll among the gigantic Lilly of the Valleys, pass the roaring Fluxit bonfire, conduct the Light Orchestra, lose yourself in a sea of Bluebonnets and boogie with the glittering birds on Robin's Trail.
Continue the experience with the awe-inspiring Sea of Light field show and pass through the traditional Winter Cathedral light tunnel. Conclude your magical visit by wandering by Firefly Field. Besides enjoying some hot seasonal beverages along the way, this year, I added dinner at the Lodge for winter inspired fare (reservations required) about 45 minutes into the visit.
TIP —The field light show should be enjoyed from two vantage points - the initial viewing at ground level and then from one of the overlook paths winding up the hill. Also, take a moment to stop and listen to the music that accompanies the different exhibits.
Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
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Closes January 4, 2026
Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights is another favorite of mine. The IESNYC NextGen group had a tour with the zoo’s in-house designer and event coordinator two years ago and it was evident that the zoo’s educational mission inspires how thoughtfully the lantern animals are arranged.
From towering giraffes to playful porpoises to monkeys in the trees, each area is creatively represented. In addition to the popular s'mores making tables, giant strolling puppets, ice carving station and children's interactive play area, you can now send virtual greeting cards, enjoy the snow tube slide, illuminated ice-themed throne, and throw virtual snowballs. Catch the music and light show that features stilt walking/dancing reindeer at Astor Court (as seen on Macy’s Day Parade accompanying the Bronx Zoo float.) Complete the evening with some delightful snacks and beverages along the trails.
TIP — Entry to the Zoo for the Holiday Lights can be as early as 3pm. This gives you some time to see animal exhibits before they close at 4pm. Lights go on and lantern trails open at 4:30pm. Enjoy the Bug Carousel, Dancing Crane Cafe, ride the Snow Tube Slides or visit the Bronx Zoo Store in the interim.
New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show and Holiday Train Nights
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Holiday Train Show open daily and closes January 11, 2026. Holiday Train Nights open only certain evenings and closes on January 10, 2026.
The New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show and Holiday Train Nights begin outside on the Conservatory Lawn with trains running overhead and at ground level among fantastical plantings. Then it transitions to being indoors (Haupt Conservatory) where you can wander past recreations of iconic buildings in and around New York City all made from preserved plant materials like fronds, pine cones and cinnamon sticks and nestled among live plants and flowers.
O scale trains run through the neighborhoods and over the bridges that connect the boroughs. Each year, the studio that makes the buildings adds another piece or two. This year, the new pieces are Central Park’s Delacorte Theater and The Whitney Museum of Modern Art. Opportunities for food, snacks and beverages at various locations.
TIP —Wear layers as part of the exhibit is on the Conservatory Lawn but most is in the Haupt Conservatory that will be warmer. To appreciate the details of the buildings' construction, visit during daylight hours. Consider returning after dark (separate ticket) to see the buildings lit from inside.
LuminoCity
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Closes January 1, 2026
LuminoCity was the first Lantern Festival I attended when I came to New York City. Its location moved from Randall’s Island to Whitney Pond Park to Eisenhower Park in East Meadow where it has been for the last few years. I attend this one every year and this year will be no exception. "Fantasy Winter Fairyland" features more than 20 themed groupings of lanterns, from plants and animals to icicles and castles.
Experience immersive towering sculptures and dazzling installations like Shimmering Blossoms, Crystal Passage, Mystic Forest, Frolicking Snowmen and Twinkle Town. Plenty of photo opportunities, a "Snow Dream Slide" and a special exhibit of children's art called Lumi's Utopia 2025 are some of the highlights to enjoy. Souvenir merchandise as well as food and beverages are available.
TIP —Numerous opportunities for delightful and amazing photos may result in some installations having lines. Take that time to tour around then circle back to take your pictures when crowds have dissipated.
So this year, once again, I invite you all to visit one, or several of the events and celebrate the beauty and impact that lights can have by combining professional expertise with community spirit and festive fun!
