Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour by A Slice of Brooklyn

City Tour · Brooklyn

Christmas Lights Tour of Dyker Heights

Step aboard A Slice of Brooklyn’s original Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour for a close-up of the most dazzling holiday displays in Brooklyn. Meet homeowners, capture stunning photos, and soak in the festive spirit of one of New York’s most unique neighborhoods.

View experience
Duration3.5 hours
LocationBrooklyn, New York
OperatorA Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours
Price shownCheck dates

Adventure brief

Christmas Lights Tour of Dyker Heights

Step aboard A Slice of Brooklyn’s original Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour for a close-up of the most dazzling holiday displays in Brooklyn. Meet homeowners, capture stunning photos, and soak in the festive spirit of one of New York’s most unique neighborhoods.

The Dyker Heights neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York, lights up every holiday season in a spectacular show of festive exuberance. A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours offers the definitive Christmas Lights Tour of Dyker Heights, a uniquely immersive experience that brings visitors face-to-face with some of the most lavish and creatively decorated homes in the country. Far from a simple sightseeing trip, this guided tour delivers authentic Brooklyn holiday spirit combined with personal storytelling and insider access.

Located in southwestern Brooklyn, Dyker Heights has built a reputation for its over-the-top Christmas displays, drawing tens of thousands of visitors each year. The tradition began in the 1980s, and now millions of twinkling bulbs, giant Santas, synchronized light shows, and themed yard art compose a dazzling outdoor gallery stretching over several blocks. Onboard multimedia features vintage holiday specials, setting the mood while the bus navigates the festive streets.

What sets this tour apart is its intimate connection to the community. Guides are lifelong Brooklynites who know many homeowners personally, which means you don’t just see the lights—you get to hear the stories behind them. Stops include homes in Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst along with the iconic Polizzotto house, famous for a towering 15-foot Santa, and Robert DeLauro’s property where lights dance perfectly in sync with music.

Beyond the spectacle, the tour offers the chance to glimpse a slice of local culture, including a pass by the “Blue Bloods” TV show Commissioner’s house and a visit to Lucy Spata’s home, where the Dyker Lights tradition originated. It’s a truly seasonal adventure that combines visual wonder, neighborhood charm, and holiday nostalgia all wrapped into 3.5 hours of merry exploration. Whether you’re a local or visiting, this is an unmissable way to celebrate the season in Brooklyn’s most vibrant holiday hotspot.

Adventure tips

Plan your experience.

Curated tips for an optimal adventure.

  1. 01
    Book Early to Secure Your Spot

    This tour is extremely popular during the holiday season and often sells out well in advance, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

    essential
  2. 02
    Dress Warmly for Outdoor Viewing

    You’ll spend time off the bus taking photos, so wear layered, warm clothing and comfortable shoes for walking.

    essential
  3. 03
    Bring a Camera with Low-Light Capability

    The displays shine brightest after dark; having a camera or phone that performs well in low light will help capture crisp images.

    info
  4. 04
    Be Prepared for Crowds

    Dyker Heights attracts thousands of visitors each holiday season; patience and good spirits make the experience more enjoyable.

    warning
DifficultyEasy
Duration3.5 hours
FitnessSuitable for all ages and fitness levels; mostly seated with short walks when off the bus.
Technical skillsNone

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

Warm Jackets and Layers

Necessary for comfort during outdoor stops and cold Brooklyn nights.

winterEssential
02

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Ideal for brief strolls around decorated homes and neighborhood streets.

Essential
03

Camera or Smartphone

To capture the vibrant light displays and memorable moments.

Essential
04

Gloves and Hat

Additional cold weather gear for outdoor photo stops.

winterEssential

Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

Nearby secrets

Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst neighborhoods’ lesser-known festive streets, The historic Lucy Spata house, originator of the Dyker Lights tradition

Wildlife

Local fauna

Urban squirrels prevalent in Brooklyn green spaces, Various city birds such as pigeons and sparrows

History

Historic heritage

Dyker Heights' Christmas light tradition started in the 1980s, growing into one of the nation’s largest holiday displays.

Conservation

Mindful exploration

Efforts focus on community-based sustainable lighting to minimize energy use while maintaining festive displays.

Photography tips

Capture the moments

Viewpoints
Front yards of the Polizzotto and Robert DeLauro homes, Along 11th and 12th Avenues where displays cluster, Bay Ridge streets included in the tour route
Subjects
Holiday light installations, Decorated houses and large-scale props, Festive neighborhood street scenes
Best times
Early evening after dusk, Golden hour during winter, Nighttime peak illumination

Frequently asked questions

Before you go.

Where does the tour pick up and drop off?

The meeting point is in Brooklyn, NY, with exact details provided upon booking.

Are children allowed on the tour?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.

How long is the tour?

The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including bus travel and walking stops.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility details are available upon request; please contact the company directly for specific accommodations.

Can I get off the bus to take photos?

Yes, the guides escort guests off the bus at key spots for the best photo opportunities.

Are refreshments provided on the tour?

No food or drinks are included; guests are encouraged to bring their own if desired.

A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour by A Slice of Brooklyn