Top Things to Do on Long Island This December
December on Long Island is a magical time, brimming with festive activities that embrace the holiday spirit. From breathtaking light displays to cozy holiday markets, Long Island offers unique winter events and activities for families, couples, and friends alike.
Here’s your guide to the top things to do this December on Long Island, making the most of the season’s cheer and creating unforgettable memories.
Long Island becomes a festive hub in December, filled with holiday-themed events, family-friendly activities, and exciting sports action.
Whether you're planning a cozy outing or looking for the best holiday attractions, Long Island offers countless ways to celebrate the season.
Visit the Huntington Holiday Spectacular
Head to Huntington Village to experience the Huntington Holiday Spectacular, one of Long Island's most popular holiday attractions. This free, walkable holiday display features stunning lights, festive music, and a magical atmosphere for visitors of all ages. Pair your visit with a trip to the local shops and restaurants to make it a full day of holiday cheer.
Great American Family Christmas Festival
Celebrate the season in style at the Great American Family Christmas Festival. This enchanting event features dazzling light displays, live holiday performances, and seasonal treats. Browse local vendors for unique holiday gifts and indulge in festive snacks while enjoying the festive spirit of the season.
Discover the Magic of Christmas House in Hicksville
Experience the joy and wonder of the season at Christmas House in Hicksville, NY. This immersive holiday attraction is a dazzling celebration of Christmas, featuring beautifully themed rooms, twinkling lights, and festive decor that will transport you into a winter wonderland. Perfect for families, friends, or a cozy date, Christmas House offers interactive displays, magical photo opportunities, and plenty of holiday cheer. Whether you're capturing the perfect holiday picture or making unforgettable memories, Christmas House in Hicksville is a must-visit destination this season!
Explore Wonderland at The Ugly Duckling
Step into the enchanting world of Wonderland at The Ugly Duckling in Long Beach, NY. This immersive pop-up experience transforms the holiday season into a magical adventure, featuring festive decor, whimsical cocktails, and a Polar Express-inspired journey.
Located in the heart of Long Beach, this unique event offers Instagram-worthy photo opportunities and a cozy atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Whether you're planning a night out with friends, a romantic date night, or simply seeking a fun seasonal escape, Wonderland at The Ugly Duckling is the ultimate destination this holiday season.
Old-Fashioned Babylon Village Christmas
📅 Date: December 6
📍 Location: Babylon Village
🎄 Description: Step back in time and experience a magical old-fashioned Christmas in Babylon Village! Stroll through streets filled with holiday cheer, dazzling lights, and festive decorations. Enjoy carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, and visit local shops for holiday specials.
Santa on the Farm
📅 Dates: December 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22
📍 Location: Long Island Game Farm, Manorville
🎅 Description: Meet Santa and his furry friends at the Long Island Game Farm! Bring the family for a day of festive fun, complete with holiday treats, games, and a beautifully decorated farm. Perfect for creating unforgettable holiday memories.
Mineola Village Holiday Festival
📅 Dates: December 7, 8, 14, 15
📍 Location: Mineola Memorial Park
🌟 Description: Celebrate the season at Mineola Memorial Park! This holiday festival features live music, a holiday tree lighting, and plenty of activities for kids, including crafts and visits from Santa. Enjoy a cup of cocoa and soak in the festive spirit.
Port Holiday Magic
📅 Dates: December 7 & 14
📍 Location: Main Street, Port Washington
✨ Description: Experience the magic of the holidays on Main Street in Port Washington! This event includes live entertainment, holiday markets, beautifully lit streets, and fun surprises for the whole family. Don’t forget to grab some festive treats!
Holiday Market at Station Yards
📅 Dates: Every Saturday through December 21
📍 Location: Station Yards, Ronkonkoma
🛍️ Description: Shop for unique gifts and seasonal goodies at the Holiday Market in Ronkonkoma! Featuring local vendors, handcrafted items, and delicious food, it’s the perfect way to support local businesses while checking off your holiday shopping list.
45th Annual Holiday Festival
📅 Date: December 8
📍 Location: Stony Brook Village
🎶 Description: Join the 45th Annual Holiday Festival in charming Stony Brook Village! This beloved event includes live music, a holiday parade, and tree lighting. Don’t miss the festive shops and special treats that make this a cherished Long Island tradition.
Northport Winter Craft Fair
📅 Dates: December 14 & 15
📍 Location: Northport High School
🎁 Description: Browse a variety of handmade crafts and holiday gifts at the Northport Winter Craft Fair! With over 100 vendors offering unique items, you’ll find something for everyone on your list. A must-visit for holiday shoppers.
Selden Craft & Gift Fair
📅 Dates: December 21 & 22
📍 Location: Newfield High School, Selden
🌟 Description: Get those last-minute holiday gifts at the Selden Craft & Gift Fair! This two-day event showcases local artisans, baked goods, and specialty items perfect for the season. Bring your family for a festive shopping experience.
Marvel at Long Island’s Dazzling Holiday Light Displays
Long Island's holiday light shows are a beloved tradition, featuring breathtaking displays perfect for families and holiday enthusiasts. Top locations include:
Shimmering Solstice at Old Westbury Gardens: A magical walk-through experience set in a historic garden.
Smith Point County Park Holiday Light Show: A drive-through light display that's for all ages.
Bayville Winter Wonderland: A holiday experience with lights, games, and Santa visits.
These displays are guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit.
Find the Perfect Tree at Long Island Christmas Tree Farms
Make finding your Christmas tree a cherished holiday tradition. Long Island’s tree farms include:
Shamrock Christmas Tree Farm in Mattituck
Elwood Christmas Tree Farm in Huntington
Pick or cut your tree and enjoy the fresh scent of evergreens while creating memories with your loved ones.
Go Ice Skating at Long Island’s Rinks
Lace up your skates and hit the ice at these popular rinks:
Christopher Morley Park: An outdoor rink perfect for enjoying crisp winter air.
Port Washington Skating Center: A cozy indoor rink for all ages.
Surrounded by festive decor, ice skating is a classic holiday activity.
Shop for Unique Gifts at Holiday Markets
Support local artisans and find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts at Long Island’s seasonal markets. Favorites include:
Long Island Craft Guild Winter Market
Patchogue Holiday Market
Sea Cliff Holiday Market
These markets are great for unique treasures and supporting local businesses.
Cheer on the Long Island Nets this December
Basketball fans, get ready for the Long Island Nets' home games this holiday season at the Nassau Coliseum. These thrilling games are perfect for a family outing, a fun date night, or an exciting evening with friends. Catch them on these dates:
December 4 vs. Delaware Blue Coats at 7:00 PM, December 6 vs. Delaware Blue Coats at 7:00 PM, December 8 vs. Cleveland Charge at 3:00 PM, December 11 vs. Maine Celtics at 7:00 PM
Experience the energy and excitement and make unforgettable memories. Visit Long Island Nets for more info regarding tickets and game details.
Catch the New York Islanders in December
Hockey action is in full swing as the New York Islanders hit the ice in December. Watch them play live at the UBS Arena or tune in for away games.
The Islanders' December schedule includes:
December 8 vs. Ottawa at 3:30 PM, December 12 vs. Chicago at 5:30 PM, December 15 at Chicago at 1:00 PM, December 17 at Carolina at 5:00 PM, December 21 at Toronto at 5:30 PM, December 23 vs. Buffalo at 5:30 PM, December 28 vs. Pittsburgh at 5:30 PM, December 29 at Pittsburgh at 3:30 PM, December 31 at Toronto at 11:00 AM
Nothing says holiday excitement like a live hockey game. Get tickets now at the New York Islanders website.
Long Island is brimming with holiday cheer this December, from the high-energy games of the Long Island Nets and NewYork Islanders to the enchanting displays at Christmas Land New York and the Huntington Holiday Spectacular. Whether you're a sports fan, holiday enthusiast, or looking for family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone.
Plan your holiday adventures now and make this December one to remember!
December on Long Island offers a mix of family-friendly events, romantic holiday outings, and unique seasonal experiences that everyone will enjoy. From holiday lights and tree farms to historic tours and winter wine tastings, these activities capture the essence of Long Island in winter. Start planning your holiday season with these top things to do, and make the most of December on Long Island.