The Lights on the Lake is one of our favorite ways to usher in the Christmas season. This 2-mile long drive-through light display is one of the best in New York State. In fact, it was named one of the best holiday light shows in the US. We love this light display. It’s fun, it’s colorful, and it just really gets us into the holiday spirit. This is a fantastic place to enjoy festive Christmas lights without having to get out of your warm vehicle, making it an excellent destination for people who have a hard time getting around, especially in the ice and snow.
The Displays
As you drive through the twinkling-themed displays, tune your radio to FM 102.1 for holiday music to accompany your drive. The whimsical themes are festive and fun and encompass some of the best parts of the Christmas holidays, such as elves, reindeers, and the North Pole. If you are a fan of the Wizard of Oz, keep your eyes peeled for the Land of Oz display. Playful animals, enchanted forests, sports, sea creatures, dragons, and fairy tales characters fill the drive and are always family favorites. My kids were always on the lookout for the different animal lights that popped up throughout the drive. There are even amusing animated displays.
Helpful Tip: While the displays are on both sides of the road, the larger more elaborate sets are on the driver’s side of the road.
Helpful Hints
Some nights are definitely busier than others. If you want to avoid waiting in line, visiting during the week is highly recommended (and is cheaper as well.) On the weekends, be sure to arrive either before 5:30 pm or after 8:30 pm to avoid the heaviest congestion. As you are waiting in line, keep an eye out for the costumed characters running around through the cars. Little kids love a chance to see Santa, Rudolph, and Frosty the Snowman. Tell them to wave, and the characters will wave back.
We recently revisited (on a Monday night), we drove right in (no waiting at all) and were able to enjoy the lights at a slower pace (without feeling pushed by other cars.)
Hours and Admission
The Lights on the Lake runs from November 18 – January 13, 2025.
Hours:
5 pm – 10 pm Daily
Admission:
For the 2024/2025 Season: Tickets can only be purchased online.
Tickets (valid per carload) are limited and sold by the date. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are priced at $10 for Mondays-Thursdays and $20 for Friday-Sunday.
Getting There
Address: 6790 Onondaga Lake Pkwy, Liverpool, NY
