Long Island Holiday Celebrations

Katherine Andrianas

Magic Of Lights – Jones Beach
November 16 – December 30, 2018
Sun-Thurs: Dusk-10PM, Fri-Sat: Dusk-11PM
This two and a half mile long light show features animated figures, holiday characters and an enchanting tunnel of lights. For just $25 dollars per vehicle on weekdays and $30 on weekends, you can enjoy festive and vibrant light displays all from the comfort of your own car. From flashing candy canes to reindeer crossings and a magical place called snowflake forest, it’s a spectacular festival of twinkling lights. With animations that come alive, the Magic of Lights Show is like watching Christmas unveil before your eyes.

Polar Express Trolley Ride – Riverhead and Southampton
North Fork trips depart from The All-Star Bowling Alley, 96 Main Road, Riverhead
South Fork trips depart from The Omni, Hampton Jitney Terminal, Southampton
(Children must be 2 and older)
Inspired by Chris Van Allsburg’s award-winning book, The Polar Express, this interactive trolley ride lets the real story come alive.
With a reading of the book, guests get to take a look inside the north pole. For just $55 dollars per person, tickets include transportation, cookies, hot cocoa along with a chance to meet Santa and his elves. It’s a fun experience for families with younger kids especially since they encourage guests to show up wearing pajamas. On the unique trolley ride, Santa will also be giving out the first gift of Christmas so make sure to be there!

Candlelight Evenings  Holiday Show
Old Bethpage Village Restoration
1303 Round Swamp Rd, Old Bethpage, NY 11804
Friday, December 21 –
Saturday, December 29, 2018
Ever wonder how the holidays were celebrated on Long Island during the 19th century? At the Old Bethpage candlelight holiday show, you’ll get a taste of what it was like. Between the historic houses and barns to the traditional performances and storytelling, it’s an experience to remember. Beginning at 5:15 PM each night, the candlelight procession will feature a roaring bonfire, vintage model train exhibit, scavenger hunt and craft show. If you’re looking to sip on hot apple cider and listen to holiday music, book your ticket now! Just $13 for adults, $8 for seniors and $8 for children.

Bayville Winter Wonderland
8 Bayville Avenue
(Open until January 1st)
The Bayville Adventure Park has turned into a winter wonderland this holiday season! They have holiday miniature golf, storytelling, ice skating and a chance to visit Santa’s workshop at the North Pole. For adults and children, you can enjoy a variety of fun activities all for under $25 per person. Trying to plan something fun this New Year’s Eve? The Bayville Winter Wonderland is great for family New Year’s Eve parties since there is something exciting for every age. What’s better than ringing in the new year on their holiday express train ride or sitting fireside roasting marshmallows?­                

Twilight Tours of Decorated Vanderbilt Mansion
180 Little Neck Rd, Centerport, NY 11721
December 27th & 28th (5:30PM 8:00PM)
This holiday season guests are given the chance to view the luxurious living quarters of the Vanderbilt family Mansion. 
Decorated by interior designers and garden club members, the enchanted rooms have everything from lighted trees and boughs to ornaments, wreaths, ribbons and beautifully wrapped artificial gifts. What’s special about the twilight tours is that they display the original charm of the historic house while also bringing out the magic of the holiday season. Whether it’s the chandelier crystals and poinsettias or the pine cones and magnolia leaves, there’s something unique about each room.

Fishes & Wishes New Year’s Eve Party
Long Island Aquarium, 431 E Main St, 
Riverhead, NY 11901
December 31st 
(6:30PM-11:00PM)
The Fishes and Wishes dinner party will feature a Dj, lots of dancing, a penguin meet and greet along with much more! It’s a great night filled with crafts, cocktails and an overwhelming amount of delicious food. There will be a dessert and ice cream bar with a mock midnight toast before transitioning into the new year. For just $99 per adult or $89 per member, you can indulge in a buffet style dinner with beer and wine included. Looking to bring your kids? All ages are welcome. Children under two are free while kids 3-12 cost $60.