Your Guide to Seeing Sparkling Holiday Lights in Uptown NYC

Check out these wonderful light displays Uptown and see photos from the 125th Street BID Holiday Lights reception on November 14. 

By
Janrey Serapio
November 21, 2023

November 14 marked the official start of holiday lights season Uptown, with 125th Street in full holiday flair for the 30th annual 125th Street BID “Caravan of Lights” parade and a “Lights on the Plaza” tree-lighting celebration on Columbia’s Manhattanville campus.

The Harlem Holiday Lights celebration kicked off with the 125th Street BID Holiday Lights reception—co-hosted by Columbia and the Manhattan Borough President’s office—at The Forum in the afternoon, before the parade made its way through the neighborhood to spread holiday cheer with entertainment, giveaways, music, and floats of every shape and size. 

Thank you to all of our neighbors who stopped by the Manhattanville campus and to the 125th Street Business Improvement District and its partners for putting together a wonderful Harlem Holiday Lights Celebration to kick off the season. 

Did you miss the parade, but still want to enjoy a bright city night full of holiday lights? There are plenty more places Uptown that will be welcoming the season in style by decking out in full holiday flair.


Harlem Meer

Every year, the Dana Center brightens the Harlem Meer in a dazzling light display, including a “flotilla” of sparkling Christmas trees gliding across the water! See details on this year’s opening celebration on November 30 on the Central Park website.

Holiday Lights at the Harlem Meer.

Montefiore Park

The Christmas tree lighting in Montefiore Park is deemed a Holiday fiesta, and is happening on December 1. See details on this year’s celebration at NYC Parks website.

St. Nicholas Park

On December 2, St. Nicholas Park will be holding their tree lighting with music, neighbors, and crafts for kids. Check their social media for more details.

Morningside Park

Morningside Park lights up its tallest evergreen in the park during the holiday season—and it’s quite the sight! This year’s holiday lighting will be taking place on December 9.

Haven Plaza

The pedestrian plaza in Washington Heights will light up for the holiday season—starting with a Holiday Lights Celebration fit with music, hot chocolate, tea and pastries for all. Read more about Haven Plaza's celebration on December 11 here.

Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Building

Christmas tree outside of building on 125th Street in Harlem.

As you enjoy the lights on 125th Street, make sure to stop by Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Building to see their Christmas tree right on the plaza. 

Do you have a favorite holiday lights display or ceremony that isn’t included here? Let us know at [email protected].

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