Syracuse Holiday Lights and Displays
When winter arrives in Syracuse, the region transforms into a sparkling wonderland filled with festive cheer and twinkling displays.
Whether you are planning a cozy family night out or a fun holiday adventure with friends, Onondaga County offers dazzling experiences that bring the magic of the season to life.
Lights on the Lake
Location: Onondaga Lake Park, Liverpool
Dates: November 17th - January 12th
Timing: Evening hours, Monday - Thursday; $10, Friday - Sunday; $20
Lights on the Lake returns with a glowing two mile journey filled with themed displays, whimsical scenes and colorful holiday characters. Tune your radio to Sunny 102 as you travel through favorites like the Land of Oz and Twinkling Fantasy Forest. This Syracuse tradition is a must see experience for families, couples and holiday fans of all ages. Tickets must be purchased online in advance.
Downtown Syracuse
See the lights surrounding the Clinton Square ice-skating rink including a giant Christmas Tree and Menorah. Partake in the annual Syracuse family tradition at the 2025 annual Home for the Holidays tree lighting ceremony, which kicks off Friday, November 28th at dusk. Walk the streets of downtown and view decorated storefront window displays and take advantage of evening shopping hours and holiday sales. Enjoy chic downtown dining options while choosing from special holiday-themed menu items. Venture a bit further and discover the Hanover Square which this year will feature Candy Cane Lane and a newly renovated lighted fountain.
The Wild Winter Wonderland of Lights
The Wild Animal Park: 7621 Lakeport Rd, Chittenango, NY 13037
Dates: Select Days November 26th - January 3, 2026
The Wild Animal Park in North Chittenango, just a short drive from Syracuse, features the largest zoo light display around during the holiday season. Travel to The Wild Experience the season like never before with a family trip to see some exotic animals up close and personal, holiday light displays, Santa on-site daily for meet-and-greets and photos, bounce houses and more. Opening earlier than ever this year on November 26th and running 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm most days throughout the holiday season.
Festival of Trees & Lights
Location: The Everson Museum of Art
Dates: December 4 - 15, 2025
For forty years, the Everson has watched thousands of families enter their main doors in awe of the spectacular displays of trees and décor, mesmerized by the incredible live performances, and immersed in hands-on activities throughout the holiday season. Every year they commit to bringing the Central New York Community the very best of all the Festival of Trees & Light has to offer as a time-honored holiday tradition. This year’s Festival will pay tribute to the festivals of years past, honor all those who made the event possible for forty years, and look ahead to all that’s to come at the Everson.
No matter how you celebrate the season, Syracuse and Onondaga County offer a winter wonderland of lights, festive cheer, and unique holiday experiences for all. From sparkling displays to cozy moments with loved ones, there's no shortage of holiday magic. Bundle up, bring your sense of wonder, and make unforgettable memories this winter in Syracuse!
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