Where are the Best Holiday Light Displays in the Finger Lakes?

The twinkle of holiday lights, the sparkle of snow…there’s really nothing better! The Finger Lakes region offers a variety of enchanting holiday light displays that capture the spirit of the season in unforgettable ways. Whether you’re looking for a romantic drive to take with your love or a way to get the whole family involved in some seasonal fun, you’ll be sure to find something for everyone. Here are some of our favorite stops to check out during your vacation stay in the FLX:

The Dazzlingliffe Festival of Lights 

Located at Castel Grisch Winery, this celebration of the season includes 1.5 miles of walk-through, whimsical 3D light displays on the grounds of the winery. Stop by the tasting room for a little treat on your way out!

Downtown Ithaca Winter Holiday Bash

Enjoy a silent disco (so much fun!), live music, games, holiday decorations and more at this winter celebration in Ithaca Commons that’s fun for all ages. 

Watkins Glen Village Christmas

While not just strictly a light display, Watkins Glen puts on its holiday best with a parade, visits from Santa, music, food, vendors and so much more every December. See some festive lights but stay for the rest of the fun!

If you don’t mind the drive…

A little over an hour away from our Finger Lakes rentals, you’ll also find some impressive holiday light displays that you can add to your itinerary if you plan on exploring more of the region.

Let’s start in Clifton Springs with their Festival of Lights. Their Victorian-era downtown gets decked out in the season’s finest starting in December. Not only can you enjoy the lights, but there are horse-drawn wagon rides, visits with Santa, and more!

Victor Hills Golf Club offers RocLights, a family-friendly drive-through display with over 20 different light installations along a scenic path. 

Lights on the Lake in Syracuse is another must-see. This two-mile drive-through light show showcases incredible holiday displays, including a twinkling fantasy forest. It’s widely acclaimed throughout the region and beyond and runs November through January. Get your tickets in advance if you make plans to see this attraction! 

And finally, Wild Winter Wonderland of Lights in Chittenango allows visitors to walk through the Wild Animal Park while enjoying a light display and visits with cold weather creatures. 

We can’t wait to see all of these stops in the FLX turn into winter wonderlands!