15 Must-Do Christmas Events and Holiday Activities in Westchester for Kids 2025
This year's must-do Christmas events and holiday activities in Westchester include a wintry mix of spectacles, tree-lighting ceremonies, Santa sightings, and other fun. We’ve got the lowdown on top holiday attractions to keep your family’s spirits high.
Westchester's many festive holiday displays include Holiday Lane at American Christmas, a walk-through Christmas wonderland featuring more than 100,000 twinkling lights, friendly animatronic characters, and nine enchanting themed areas.
Families can also drive through 100-foot light tunnels and meet Santa and other characters at the Westchester Winter Wonderland's Drive-Thru Holiday Light Extravaganza.
Find even more ways to celebrate the season in our curated Christmas and Holiday Guide for Westchester Families. We're busy populating our Family Activity Calendar with loads of fun throughout the holidays, so keep close tabs to stay informed.
As always, if an event piques your interest, click through to our listing for all the details, including addresses, times, and recommended ages. And keep in mind: Really cool things to do with kids often book up quickly, so register or buy your tickets ASAP.
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Insider Tips for Families Enjoying Holiday Fun in Westchester
- Many of the big-ticket events sell out early, so try to book in advance.
- If possible, visit popular attractions on weekdays to avoid crowds and sellouts.
- Try to arrive early to events to avoid crowds with the kids. Also, if you have babies or toddlers, the twilight hours are usually better for seeing the walk-through light shows to avoid walking in the dark. If tickets are timed entry, try to book the earliest tickets (which sometimes offer a discounted rate).
- Dress warm but in layers for outdoor events, and wear comfortable shoes for walking events.
Christmas Events in Westchester FAQ
Q: What are the best Christmas events in Westchester for kids?
A: Family favorites in the area include the Holiday Train Show at Greenburgh Nature Center in Scarsdale, Holiday Lane at Christmas in America in Mt Vernon, and Westchester’s Winter Wonderland Drive-Thru Holiday Light Extravaganza at Kensico Dam.
Q: Where can kids see Christmas lights in Westchester?
A: Some of the most magical light displays are at Holiday Lane at Christmas in America in Mt Vernon, Westchester’s Winter Wonderland Drive-Thru Holiday Light Extravaganza at Kensico Dam, Lumina Magical Lights Experience at Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard in North Salem, and Holiday on the Hudson at Monteverde in Cortlandt Manor. Check out our guide to the best Christmas lights in the tri-state area.
Q: What holiday activities are free in Westchester?
A: Free holiday fun includes the Cross County Center Holiday Tree Lighting, the Grand Holiday Illumination at Untermyer Gardens, and the Lighting at Ridge Hill.
Q: Where can we meet Santa in Westchester?
A: Kids can meet Santa on select days at Holiday Lane at Christmas in America, at the Holiday on the Hill Train Show at Lasdon Park in Katonah, at Cross County Center, and at Ridge Hill Shopping Center.
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