The most wonderful time of the year is finally here! For this post, I wanted to quickly share my top 5 holiday activities. While some of these activities are situated in New York and Long Island, there are most likely similar holiday festivities near your area. These are 5 of my favorite holiday activities that I think everyone will enjoy.
1. Jones Beach Holiday Light Show
Within the last few years, Jones Beach's popular Holiday Light Show has returned! I went for the first time ever three years ago, and it was an amazing sight. I went again last weekend, and in my opinion, the show has gotten even better. From the comfort of your car, you will drive through a spectacular holiday display while listening to the show's own holiday music station. There are hundreds of light displays, ranging from classic holiday favorites to the enchanting tunnel of lights. A little more than halfway through the show, you are able to pull off into the Holiday Village. Here, you will be able to enjoy your favorite holiday comfort foods, fire pits with smores kits, and even be able to meet adorable sled dogs. While the event itself can be pricey ($30 per car on the weekend, $25 for during the week), it is definitely worth it. I highly recommend this fun holiday activity!
2. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies
Every year, I attend various tree lighting ceremonies since there are so many in the local area. Two of the most popular ones on Long Island are the Belmont Lake Tree Lighting Ceremony and the Tanger Outlets Deer Park Tree Lighting. At both of these locations, there is live music (Tanger has a different artist perform each year!), a variety of food, and various other activities. Tree lighting ceremonies are a free and fun way to get into the holiday spirit.
3. Holiday DIYs
One activity that gets me excited for the holidays is creating my own holiday DIY projects. Each year, I try to make a new decoration for my bedroom since it is a fun, creative way to get into the holiday mood. I recommend heading over to Pinterest to find a DIY project that fits your style! These are some of my favorite Holiday DIYs.
4. Bake/Create Holiday Treats
Who doesn't love a yummy holiday treat? Around this time of the year, I always find myself eating a lot more cookies, candy canes, and other festive goods. There are so many baking options online with simple recipes to follow that even I can make a delicious treat! I also love to make a gingerbread house every winter season. Specifically, every Thanksgiving for the last 4 years I have made a house with my little cousin. It is always fun! Oh, and we can't forget the classic Pillsbury holiday sugar cookies; a true holiday favorite.
5. City Trip to see the Rockefeller Christmas Tree
While a trip to NYC is probably one of the most basic/touristy things a Long Islander can do, I still enjoy to go every year since the city during this time of the year feels magical. While in the city for a holiday day trip, I enjoy seeing all of the "typical" Christmassy spots; the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, the decorated holiday window displays, Bryant Park, and Central Park. The holiday decorations around the city are beautiful, especially in the areas I just mentioned. After visiting the tree, be sure to stop by Bryant Park's Winter Village. There are numerous small shops set up around the park, along with great food, and an ice skating rink.
Of course, decorating is my all time favorite holiday activity, but I figured that was too simple to include! Has anyone else had their Christmas decorations up since Thanksgiving weekend or is it just me?? Anyway, I hope you enjoyed reading about my favorite holiday activities!
Have a happy, fun, and safe holiday!
~Ashley
Comments