The Christmas light drive through at Jones Beach is an annual holiday tradition on Long Island that allows visitors to drive through a two-mile route decorated with elaborate and festive light displays. It features over 300 light displays and over 1 million lights, all perfectly synchronized to holiday music that plays through your car radio.
When does it take place?
The Jones Beach Holiday Light Show typically runs from Thanksgiving through early January each year. The exact dates vary slightly each year, but it generally operates daily from 5:00-10:00 PM starting around the last Thursday of November through the first week of January.
Where is it located?
The light show is located at Jones Beach State Park on Ocean Parkway in Wantagh, NY. Visitors enter through the West End 2 parking field and follow a designated driving path through the park. Jones Beach State Park sits on a barrier island off the southern coast of Long Island, about 45 minutes east of Manhattan.
How long does it take to drive through?
The drive-through experience takes around 25-30 minutes from start to finish depending on traffic. The route itself is just under 2 miles long. Visitors are required to stay in their vehicles for the duration of the drive and follow all posted speed limits and traffic signs throughout the park.
What are some of the light displays?
Some of the many light displays visitors can expect to see along the route include:
- A 40-foot Christmas tree synchronized to music
- Giant snowflakes and snowmen
- Candy canes and lollipops
- Festive reindeer, penguins, polar bears
- Dancing displays and archways
- Oversize holiday cards, ornaments and packages
- Tunnels of lights
- Illuminated park scenes like a winter village, nutcracker soldiers, etc.
How does the music work?
As visitors drive through the light show, holiday music plays through their car radio synchronized to the lights. Upon entering, signs provide instructions for tuning the radio to a specific FM channel. The music has been perfectly timed to match the surrounding light displays for a coordinated show. Selections include both traditional Christmas songs and fun, upbeat tunes.
Is there an admission fee?
Yes, there is an admission fee per vehicle to drive through the light show. Rates are:
- Cars: $30 Monday-Thursday, $35 Friday-Sunday & Holidays
- Limousines: $60 Monday-Thursday, $70 Friday-Sunday & Holidays
- Buses: $120 Monday-Thursday, $140 Friday-Sunday & Holidays
Payment is by cash only upon entering the parking field.
Are there any discounts or specials?
Yes, the Jones Beach light show offers the following discounts and specials:
- Locals Special – Long Island residents with ID pay just $20 per car Monday-Thursday.
- Military Appreciation Nights – Active military members get free admission on select Tuesday nights with ID.
- Heroes and First Responders Nights – Free admission certain nights for firefighters, police, doctors, nurses, EMTs, etc. with valid ID.
- Toys for Tots – Bring a new, unwrapped toy for donation and get $5 off admission on designated nights.
Are there restrooms and concessions available?
Yes, restrooms are available at the beginning and end of the route. Food vendors and concession stands are also onsite near the entry area with holiday treats like hot chocolate, baked goods, snacks, etc. However, food and drinks are not allowed to be consumed along the drive-through light route itself.
Can you get out of the car?
For safety reasons, all visitors must remain inside their vehicles for the duration of the light show route. Getting out of the car along the drive-through is prohibited.
What about inclement weather?
The Holiday Light Show operates rain or shine as well as in snowy conditions. Extreme weather events like electrical storms, hurricanes, or blizzards may result in temporary closures. Check the official website or social media pages for any weather-related updates or cancellations before heading over.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are permitted but must remain inside vehicles. Leashed pets are allowed in the parking areas and entry/exit points but not along the actual drive-through light route.
Is it wheelchair and handicap accessible?
Yes, the Jones Beach light show can accommodate wheelchairs and handicapped visitors. The route is drivable for wheelchairs and open spaces are available in the parking field for vans. Just be sure to inform the parking attendant upon arrival for directions to handicap parking.
Table Showing Key Facts About the Holiday Light Show:
Info | Details |
---|---|
Location | Jones Beach State Park, Wantagh NY |
Dates | Thanksgiving – early January |
Hours | 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm daily |
Route length | Approx. 2 miles |
Displays | Over 300 light displays & 1 million+ lights |
Duration | 25-30 minutes |
Admission | Cars $30-$35 Limousines $60-$70 Buses $120-$140 |
Parking | West End 2 Parking Field |
Website | www.jonesbeachholidaylightshow.com |
Are there any reviews, ratings or testimonials?
The Jones Beach Holiday Light Show is highly acclaimed on Long Island and receives excellent reviews from both locals and out of town visitors alike. Here are just a few examples:
Excerpt from Newsday:
“Jones Beach Holiday Light Show is a must-see tradition for families across Long Island. The elaborate displays and joyful music provide a magical experience for all ages that really puts you in the holiday spirit.”
Review from Tripadvisor user:
“This was absolutely amazing! I’ve never seen anything like it – the lights were perfectly synchronized to the music playing on the radio. So well done and thoroughly enjoyed the 30 minutes driving through. 5 stars!”
Testimonial from recent visitor:
“We bring our kids to the Jones Beach light show every year and they are always dazzled by the displays. It’s the perfect holiday treat and really kicks off the Christmas season for our family. Highly recommend!”
How to learn more?
For more information on the Jones Beach Holiday Light Show, visit the official website at www.jonesbeachholidaylightshow.com. The site has details on admission prices, discounts, schedules, FAQs, driving directions, and more. You can also follow their Facebook page for regular updates and announcements.
Conclusion
The Jones Beach Holiday Light Show is Long Island’s premier Christmas lights spectacle that delights both young and old. Featuring over 300 displays and a two-mile driving path set to music, it has become a beloved annual tradition for many local families and visitors to the area. Its convenient location, festive atmosphere, reasonable prices, and acres of elaborate lights make it the perfect holiday activity. Don’t miss your chance to drive through this one-of-a-kind Christmas lights extravaganza this season on Long Island.