Dazzling Holiday Start: “Magic of Lights” Returns to Jones Beach State Park, November 21 for Families and Holiday Enthusiasts

WANTAGH, N.Y. – As twilight falls on the South Shore and the scent of salt air gives way to the sparkle of holiday lights, thousands of Long Islanders are poised to slide behind the wheel for one of the season’s most anticipated traditions: the return of the drive-through spectacle at Jones Beach State Park. Beginning Friday, November 21, the 2025 edition of Magic of Lights invites families, friends and holiday-enthusiasts to wind slowly through a winding course of oversized LED scenes and animated light shows, all from the comfort of their vehicles. According to the official schedule, the show wraps on Saturday, January 3, 2026, giving visitors the post-Thanksgiving weekend jump on Long Island’s holiday season.

More than just a riot of twinkling bulbs, the event blends nostalgia and cutting-edge display technology. Recent editions have featured mile-long drives through tunnels of lights, massive installations (such as a 32-foot “Holiday Barbie” and life-sized dinosaurs from the “Prehistoric Christmas” series), and an optional walk-through Holiday Village where guests can meet Santa, roast s’mores and snack amidst illuminated mega-trees.

The return of Magic of Lights isn’t just another seasonal event, it’s a marquee outing. Whether you’re looking to launch your holiday tradition, entertain visiting family, or capture share-worthy photos in a festive car-loaded experience, this show checks all the boxes. And because it opens right after Thanksgiving, it offers the perfect pivot from turkey-day leftovers into full holiday mode.

What to Know Before You Go

Dates & Times

• Saturday, November 21, 2025 through Saturday, January 3, 2026 at Jones Beach.
• Sunday through Thursday: driving begins at dusk (roughly 5:00 PM) and runs until about 10:00 PM.
• Friday & Saturday nights: extended hours (typically until ~11:00 PM).

Location & Ticketing

• Venue: Jones Beach State Park, 1000 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh, NY 11793.
• Entry is by vehicle: one ticket covers a standard carload. Wish to bring a limo or bus? Special pricing applies.
• Pricing: One ticket per vehicle. Online advance pricing from $23.47 (Weekdays) and $28.90 (Any Day)

Why It Stands Out

• Drive-through format keeps you in your car – ideal for families, all ages, and cold nights.
• Huge, high-impact scenes and newer features each year make it fresh even for repeat visitors.
• Offers great value compared to other holiday outings when you consider the vehicle ticket covers all seats.
• Ideal for Long Islanders: easy access, local venue, and the timing bridges Thanksgiving and Christmas nicely.

Planning Smart: Tips for a Smooth Visit

• Buy tickets early online: Arriving with pre-purchased tickets helps streamline entry and may save you money.
• Go on a weeknight: Sunday–Thursday nights tend to be less crowded than Fridays and Saturdays, which means shorter waits. Reddit users who’ve visited note that “the lines can be nuts”. reddit.com
• Tune the car radio: The event often has a dedicated FM station where holiday music is synced to the light display. Be sure to set your volume low so as not to disturb others.
• Dress for the evening: Even though you’re in a car, you may step out at the Holiday Village or want to crack a window for a photo – bring a jacket or blanket.
• Arrive early: Especially around Thanksgiving weekend, traffic into Jones Beach can build up. Give yourself extra time.
• Check for weather updates: If there are storms or park issues, the event may delay or reschedule, so follow the official website and social-channels.
• Consider adding nearby dining or activities: Since you’re on Long Island’s South Shore anyway, you might grab dinner beforehand in Wantagh or Merrick to make the evening a full outing.

Key Facts & Details