There are tons of winter activities across the lower Hudson Valley. Here's a list of some family favorites.

ERDAJT's Christmas Light Display

LaGrangeville NY

This world record light show is local to the Hudson Valley. Located in LaGrangeville NY, this light show is a drive through experience where the lights are animated to music. 2023 is their 28th year on display. The display will run nightly from November 24th through December 28th. Charities collect a donation each night.

Learn more

The Wonderland of Lights.


This is another drive through light display in Dutchess County. Located in Rhinebeck NY, at the Dutchess county fair grounds. Tickets are $30 per car (up to 8 people). This display runs from November 22nd through December 30th, but they are not open nightly. Check here for exact dates.

Catskill Mountain Rail Road - Polar Express


This Polar Express experience is located in Kingston NY. This is sure to be a crowd favorite. As a passenger on this Polar Express, you get to experience the story for yourself. Wear your Christmas jammies, get served hot cocoa by dancing waiters and even get to meet Santa to receive the first gift of Christmas. Get tickets and read more here.


Lights in Bloom


This is one of our family favorites. My kids love being able to walk through the lights. Usually we grab a hot cocoa on the way to keep our hands extra toasty. This light display is located at the Orange County Arboretum, in Montgomery NY. The free walk through light display also features a holiday boutique and lots of awesome photo ops.

Winter Wonderland at Dogwood Acres


Last, but certainly not least is the Winter Wonderland at Dogwood Acres in Middletown NY. Wagon ride through the lights, holiday movies, games, stores, Santa visits, snowball fights and more! They are open tons of days throughout December, including the 26th through the 30th which is the week of winter break. Admission is $20. To get tickets click here.

*BONUS* Kids New Years Party


Dogwood Acres is also hosting a kids new years party in Middletown NY on December 30th from 7 to 8pm with a ball drop at 8pm!