Wantagh | Nassau
Magic of Lights at Jones Beach
The organizer advertises the drive-through show for November 20, 2026-January 3, 2027. Ticket types and prices are based on the vehicle and date selected.
CORDEIRA HOMES | Winter and Holidays | 2026-27
Winter & Holiday Things to Do on Long Island
Long Island keeps going after the beach season. The winter calendar brings sparkling light displays, historic holiday houses, family farm traditions, theater nights and indoor outings that work when the temperature drops.
I'm John Cordeira, Broker/Owner of Cordeira Homes. I help people explore Long Island beyond real estate, and this resource is one part of our growing guide to useful, interesting local places across Nassau and Suffolk.
Nassau County: Light Shows and Holiday Traditions
These are useful stops for a festive evening without traveling all the way out east.
Westbury | Nassau
Christmas at Hicks Nurseries
The 2026 calendar includes a free animated walkthrough, Santa visits and musical performances on select days. Check which experiences have specific dates and times.
Old Westbury | Nassau
Christmas at Westbury House
Historic-mansion holiday programs, caroling and special family activities appear on the Old Westbury Gardens calendar. Admission and times vary by event.
Garden City | Nassau
Cradle of Aviation Museum
A practical indoor option during winter break for aircraft and space exhibits, planetarium programs and family discovery.
Suffolk County: Holiday Farms and Indoor Escapes
A longer outing can be worth it for festive farm displays and winter-friendly cultural destinations.
Manorville | Suffolk
Waterdrinker Winter Wonderland
The farm lists a 2026 holiday season with light displays, farm attractions and photo opportunities. Some features are outdoors and weather-dependent.
Centerport | Suffolk
Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium
Mansion, exhibits and planetarium programming provide a different kind of winter outing. Check seasonal operating hours for each part of the property.
Riverhead | Suffolk
Long Island Aquarium
The aquarium's indoor experiences are useful during winter, although certain animal encounters and outdoor programs are seasonal.
Babylon Village | Suffolk
Argyle Theatre
A year-round professional theater for performances and an easy dinner-and-show outing in walkable Babylon Village.
Plan the Right Outing
Winter planning: Reserve holiday-event tickets early, check the weather for outdoor farms, and keep an indoor backup. Holiday calendars are updated by each operator; verify details before leaving.
Official websites above have the most current hours, admission rules, weather updates and tickets. This guide was researched in October 2026; dates should be reviewed for each new season.
Get to Know the Neighborhoods Around These Destinations
A day at an attraction is also a chance to explore nearby shops, parks and neighborhoods. Browse these existing Cordeira Homes local guides:
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I see Christmas lights on Long Island?
Magic of Lights at Jones Beach is a well-known drive-through option. Winter farm events also feature illuminated displays.
What free winter family events are available?
Hicks Nurseries advertises free 2026 holiday programming, though paid extras may apply elsewhere.
Are holiday lights open in January?
Magic of Lights lists operations into early January 2027; check its current calendar and ticket terms.
What can I do in winter without holiday events?
Try the Cradle of Aviation Museum, Vanderbilt Planetarium, Long Island Aquarium or a live theater event.
CORDEIRA HOMES | REAL ESTATE AND LOCAL EXPERTISE
Enjoy the Area? Explore Living Here.
Winter is a useful time to plan a move before the spring market. I can help you understand your home's value and explore neighborhoods.
With over 20 years helping Long Island buyers and sellers, I can provide local, property-specific guidance without a hard sell.
Own a Long Island Business or Host an Event?
Host holiday markets, light shows, winter workshops or performances? Send the event website and current schedule to be considered.
I want these guides to spotlight genuine local experiences. Suggestions are reviewed for relevance; submitting your business does not guarantee a listing or paid placement.
Explore More FUN Long Island Guides
Use these related guides to plan a different season or activity:
Last researched October 2026. Attraction information, fees, season dates, services and age restrictions may change; verify with each organizer.
John Cordeira
Broker/Owner, Cordeira Homes
Serving Nassau and Suffolk County for more than 20 years
#RippedRealtor