The holiday season descends upon us, bringing with it a flurry of activity and a desire to create lasting memories. If you’re seeking a Christmas experience that diverges from the typical mall frenzy, Brooklyn offers a unique and charming alternative. Here, you can discover towering Christmas trees, be captivated by enchanting holiday performances, and unearth gifts that reflect the borough’s vibrant artistic spirit.
Escape the crowded streets of Manhattan and embrace the more relaxed atmosphere of Brooklyn during this bustling time of year. A delightful array of events awaits, ranging from cherished traditions to innovative celebrations, all guaranteed to infuse your holidays with joy.
Let’s explore the diverse offerings that make Christmas in Brooklyn a truly special occasion.
Take the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour
No Guide to Christmas in Brooklyn: Activities, Events and Shopping would be complete without mentioning the dazzling spectacle of Dyker Heights. Prepare to be mesmerized by the extravagant Christmas light displays that transform this close-knit Italian neighborhood into a winter wonderland. This has become a beloved Brooklyn tradition, drawing visitors from far and wide.
The sheer exuberance of the decorations is breathtaking. Residents engage in a friendly competition, each striving to outdo their neighbors with ever more elaborate and dazzling displays. Imagine entire houses blanketed in twinkling lights, adorned with larger-than-life figures of Santa Claus, reindeer, and snowmen. Lawns become miniature landscapes of holiday cheer, complete with animated scenes and synchronized light shows.
It’s estimated that over 100,000 tourists flock to Dyker Heights each year to witness this extraordinary outpouring of creativity and festive spirit. The light displays spill over homes, roofs, and gardens, creating an immersive experience that is both visually stunning and deeply heartwarming. Whether you’re a Christmas enthusiast, a lover of folk art, or traveling with young children, a visit to Dyker Heights is an unforgettable experience. Bundle up, grab a hot chocolate, and prepare to be transported to a world of dazzling lights and holiday magic.
Shop at Holiday Markets
Step away from the predictable offerings of big department stores and embrace the unique charm of Brooklyn’s holiday markets. The borough is brimming with talented artisans and craftspeople, offering a diverse array of handcrafted gifts that you won’t find anywhere else. This section of the Guide to Christmas in Brooklyn: Activities, Events and Shopping focuses on alternatives to mainstream shopping.
In neighborhoods like Prospect Heights and Park Slope, local merchants often host special weekend or evening promotions. During these events, you can explore mom-and-pop shops offering customers complimentary wine or cookies, discounts on merchandise, and exclusive bargains. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support local businesses and discover hidden gems.
For a truly unique shopping experience, head to the Brooklyn Navy Yard Holiday Market. Held annually, this market showcases the talents of Brooklyn-based makers, offering a curated selection of handcrafted jewelry, artisanal food products, unique home décor items, and much more. You’re sure to find the perfect gift for even the most discerning recipient.
Vintage enthusiasts will delight in exploring the various vintage markets scattered throughout Brooklyn. The most renowned of these is the Brooklyn Flea Holiday Market in DUMBO. Here, you can browse through a treasure trove of vintage clothing, antique furniture, retro accessories, and other one-of-a-kind finds. It’s a perfect place to discover a truly unique and memorable gift.
Throughout December, artists from all corners of Brooklyn showcase their creations at Christmas markets throughout the borough. These markets offer a chance to purchase affordable gifts that are not mass-produced and are unlikely to be found in a mall. By supporting these local artists, you’re not only giving a thoughtful gift but also contributing to the vibrant artistic community of Brooklyn.
See a Christmas Show
From grand performances at the Barclays Center to intimate puppet shows in local theaters, Brooklyn offers a diverse range of holiday entertainment options to suit every taste and budget. This portion of the Guide to Christmas in Brooklyn: Activities, Events and Shopping details some of the best shows available.
The Barclays Center, a major entertainment venue, hosts a variety of holiday-themed performances, including family-friendly shows like the Harlem Globetrotters and Disney on Ice, in addition to its regularly scheduled sporting events.
For a more traditional holiday experience, consider attending a performance of "The Nutcracker" ballet at the Kings Theatre, a beautifully restored movie palace. The enchanting story, coupled with Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, is sure to delight audiences of all ages.
The Brooklyn Tabernacle, a renowned gospel choir, presents a free Christmas show featuring carols and inspirational music. The powerful voices and uplifting message create a truly moving and memorable experience.
Don’t miss "Light Up Brooklyn Commons," an event featuring impressive ice sculptures and a dazzling light show. It’s a perfect way to add some sparkle to your holiday season.
Participate in Make Music New York
Celebrate the winter solstice and the arrival of winter by participating in Make Music Winter, a citywide celebration of music-making. This free event invites New Yorkers to sing, play, dance, and march their way across the streets, plazas, and parks of all five boroughs in a series of participatory parades.
Whether you’re a seasoned musician or simply enjoy making music, Make Music Winter offers a unique opportunity to connect with your community and celebrate the spirit of the season.
Celebrate Kwanzaa
The Brooklyn Children’s Museum hosts Kwanzaa celebrations for all ages. Kwanzaa, first celebrated in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, honors African heritage and African-American culture.
Over five days, immerse yourself in the culture and learn about Kwanzaa’s seven principles: unity; self-determination; collective work and responsibility; cooperative economics; purpose; faith; and creativity.
Celebrate Sinterklass
Celebrate Sinterklaas Day, also known as St. Nicholas Day, at the Wyckoff Farmhouse Museum (in Fidler-Wyckoff House Park).
Enjoy hot cider, play colonial games, meet St. Nicholas, decorate the tree for the tree lighting, and experience how the holidays were celebrated in NYC’s oldest house.
Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
A trip to Brooklyn is incomplete without a walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. This landmark offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the surrounding harbor.
Access the pedestrian walkway from Brooklyn at Tillary/Adams Streets or a staircase on Prospect St between Cadman Plaza East and West. The stroll is a chance to take in the cityscape, breathe in the crisp winter air, and appreciate the architectural marvel that connects Brooklyn and Manhattan.
See the World’s Almost Tallest Menorah
Witness the lighting of a massive, 30-foot tall menorah to mark the beginning of Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights. The Manhattan menorah is only slightly taller.
Arrive early to watch as the rabbi and a public official ascend to the top of the menorah in a cherry picker to light the candles.
The festivities include hot potato pancakes, traditional jelly donuts, and lively music. The event is organized by the Chabad organization, which oversees the public lighting of menorahs in hundreds of cities across the globe.
This Guide to Christmas in Brooklyn: Activities, Events and Shopping provides a snapshot of the many ways to celebrate the holiday season in this dynamic borough. From dazzling light displays to unique shopping experiences and captivating performances, Brooklyn offers a Christmas experience that is both memorable and deeply enriching. So, embrace the spirit of the season and discover the magic of Christmas in Brooklyn.
