Spending time during the holidays checking out events and activities in Brooklyn really does make Christmas in Williamsburg quite exciting. You are at the perfect place to explore local Christmas events if you’re staying at the Arlo Williamsburg. You have many choices, from fun holiday markets to beautiful festive light displays. Here’s a great go-to list with the top 10 activities that will fill your holiday season with joy, and all within minutes of your stay.
Holiday Light Sculpture Walk at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden hosts its annual Lightscape, a breathtaking outdoor event featuring a series of immersive light sculptures and displays. You get the chance to walk through stunning illuminated installations set among the garden’s beautiful pathways. It doesn’t get more festive or more magical than this. The event is family-friendly, with hot chocolate stands along the way, creating a warm, inviting holiday atmosphere. If you love all things bright and beautiful, this is just the event for you.
Lightscape is about 25 minutes by subway or 15 minutes drive from Arlo Williamsburg.
Why Visit: The combination of nature and art makes this a visually captivating and memorable holiday experience.
Luminaries at Brookfield Place
Brookfield Place in Lower Manhattan brings its annual Luminaries event to life during the holiday season. This interactive light installation features hundreds of lanterns suspended high in the Winter Garden Atrium, with color changes triggered by guests making wishes at illuminated wishing stations. It’s a spectacular display that innovatively blends art and holiday spirit.
The Luminaries event is approximately 20 minutes by subway from Arlo Williamsburg via the L Train to the World Trade Center stop.
Why Visit: The interactive element makes this light display stand out, and the experience is enhanced by the holiday-themed shops and dining options nearby at Brookfield Place.
Smorgasburg Winter Market
Known for its outdoor food markets, Smorgasburg continues the tradition during the holidays with a special winter market. Local chefs and food artisans showcase delicious seasonal fare, from gingerbread cookies to mulled wine. It’s a must-visit market to taste the flavors of Brooklyn while getting into the holiday spirit.
This event happens every Saturday and Sunday in December and is a 10-minute walk or 5-minute ride share from Arlo Hotel.
Why Visit: This is the place to try one-of-a-kind holiday treats and shop for small-batch food gifts to take home.
Brooklyn Flea Holiday Market
Brooklyn Flea’s holiday market is your one-stop place for unique, vintage, and handmade gifts. This is Brooklyn’s largest flea market for jewelry, crafts, and vintage clothing, making it the perfect place to get your holiday shopping done. The market also features holiday-themed décor and live music to keep the festive energy alive.
This event happens every weekend in December and is a quick 8-minute subway ride or a 5-minute drive from Arlo Hotel.
Why Visit: This market is a Brooklyn institution and a perfect way to find one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones.
Brooklyn Brewery Holiday Tours
Brooklyn Brewery opens its doors for special holiday tours during the month of December. Guests can take a guided tour of the brewery, learning about the beer-making process and the history behind one of Brooklyn’s most beloved breweries. The tours often include tastings of seasonal brews and exclusive holiday releases. Additionally, there are often pop-up food vendors offering delicious snacks to pair with the beers.
This tour is approximately a 15-minute walk or a 5-minute ride share from Arlo Williamsburg.
Why Visit: It’s a fun way to enjoy the holiday season with friends while discovering local craft beer, and the festive atmosphere makes it even more special.
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour
For a true Brooklyn holiday spectacle, take a tour of the Dyker Heights neighborhood, known for its elaborate Christmas light displays. Homeowners go all out, decorating their homes with thousands of lights, inflatables, and life-sized Santa Claus. Guided tours are available to show you the best decorated houses.
This Christmas lights tour is about a 30-minute drive from Arlo Williamsburg.
Why Visit: It’s one of the most impressive Christmas light displays in New York City and a can’t-miss for anyone visiting Brooklyn during the holidays.
FAD Market: Holiday Pop-up
Part of FAD Market’s holiday series, this festive market is the go-to place for finding the best gifts for your loved ones. With a constant rotation of more than 35 local makers every weekend, you will have an endless selection of fantastic gift ideas. The pop-up, only a 19-minute drive from Arlo Williamsburg, is free and is open from December 7 through December 22, on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 AM to 6 PM.
Why Visit: FAD Market’s Holiday Pop-up is renowned for its curated selection of high-quality, one-of-a-kind items, making it a perfect stop for holiday shopping.
DUMBO Holiday Tree Lighting
In Brooklyn’s DUMBO neighborhood, the DUMBO Holiday Tree Lighting brings locals and visitors together to celebrate the season. This annual event features live performances from local musicians, hot cocoa, and a visit from Santa Claus. Families, friends, and neighbors gather to watch the holiday tree light up against the backdrop of the Manhattan Bridge. The festive event creates a fun, community atmosphere with plenty of holiday cheer.
The DUMBO Holiday Tree Lighting event is about 15 minutes by subway or 10 minutes with ride share from Arlo Williamsburg.
Why Visit: This iconic event offers a charming and classic tree-lighting experience with the added bonus of incredible views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River.
House of Yes: Holiday Spectacular
House of Yes is known for its immersive and over-the-top events, and the Holiday Spectacular is no exception. With cabaret performances, holiday-themed shows, and wild costumes, this event is perfect for those looking to celebrate the season with a more unconventional and party-friendly vibe.
Holiday Spectacular takes place during December weekends and is a 15-minute walk or a 5-minute drive from Arlo Williamsburg.
Why Visit: It’s the ultimate spot to experience Williamsburg’s quirky side while celebrating the season with dance, art, and entertainment.
Holiday Trivia Night at Barcade
Barcade, a popular retro arcade bar in Williamsburg, hosts themed holiday trivia nights throughout December. Guests can join teams to test their knowledge of holiday movies, music, and general festive fun. Enjoy craft beers, arcade games, and a relaxed, lively atmosphere while embracing a bit of friendly competition. There are usually holiday-themed prizes, like gift cards or free drinks, for the winning teams.
Barcade is a 5-minute walk from Arlo Williamsburg.
Why Visit: It’s a laid-back event with a playful twist on traditional holiday celebrations, perfect for groups of friends or couples looking for a fun night out.
Christmas In Williamsburg
Christmas in Williamsburg offers a variety of exciting holiday events and festive activities, perfect for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re exploring local markets, enjoying holiday lights, or indulging in delicious seasonal food, there’s something for everyone. And with Arlo Williamsburg as your base, you’re just minutes away from all the holiday fun.
Ready to experience the magic of Christmas in Williamsburg? Book your stay at Arlo Williamsburg today and make this holiday season one to remember!
