There’s no denying that Christmas in New York is a wonderful time of year. There are trees propped up all over the city, lights hanging on every corner, and eateries decked to the nines in Christmas decor. Not to mention, the options for festive activities are seemingly endless. However, not every New York Christmas activity is found in Manhattan. In fact, one of the most fabulous sights in the city can be found in Queens at CitiField. Head to Amaze Light Festival for a seriously stunning Christmas-filled night.
Getting There
CitField is located somewhat deep into Queens, but it’s pretty easy to get there via the subway. Simply take the 7 Train to Mets-Willets Point. The 7 Train connects in Manhattan at the following stations:
Grand Central (4, 5, 6 Lines)
Bryant Park/6th Ave (B, D, F, M Lines)
42nd Street-Times Square/Port Authority (1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, A, C, E Lines)
Hudson Yards
Once on the 7, from any of the aforementioned stops, the ride is somewhere between 25 and 30 minutes. When at Mets-Willets, exit the subway, and within just a few steps, you’ll be at Citifield.
Entry Fee and Hours
Amaze Light Festival, as mentioned, is right at CitiField. There is only one main entrance, and they do check bags, so don’t bring anything you wouldn’t bring to Grandma’s house. Once you pass the bag check, your ticket is scanned and you’re off to enjoy the amazing festivities of Amaze Lights Festival.
Tickets can be purchased online, and prices range from $42 to over $100 for VIP tickets. Children under the age of 2 do not require a purchased ticket.
Amaze Light Festival runs until January 8, 2023, and is open from 4PM-10PM everyday with the exception of a few blackout dates. You can view blackout dates on their calendar.
The Light Displays
Once you’re in, you’re in! You will be immediately greeted with large lit up presents. I went on a Sunday night in December, and it wasn’t too packed, which really helped to get some amazing photos without anyone photobombing them. The displays range from giant lit-up macarons, gingerbread houses, a horse and carriage ride, and even a giant cup of hot cocoa which you can walk through.
My personal favorite was this “candy cane lane” type of lighting display.
Not Just Lights
Amaze Light Festival, though obviously known for their giant light displays, offers plenty of more activities than just lights. There’s a show that runs every two hours based off of the Amaze Storybook featuring a live singer, a tobbogan hill and train, a giant slide, and a few rides for kiddos to enjoy. Visitors can even ride the Arctic Express Train. There’s also plenty of food and drink available for purchase from one of the many trucks serving up arancini balls, pizza, and classic winter drinks like hot cocoa and spiced cider. For the adults, go boozy and add Bailey’s or vanilla vodka to your hot chocolate. It’s really good; I know from experience!
Overall
Amaze Light Festival is well worth the short trek out on the 7 train to enjoy a New York Christmas activity without the crowds. In my humble opinion, it’s the most stunning light display in all of New York, and that’s really saying something with contenders like Rockefeller Center, Saks Fifth Ave, and the windows at Bergdorf Goodman. I would gladly return time and time again to feel some proper Christmas cheer!
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