Luminaries is a free, interactive holiday installation in the glass-domed Winter Garden at Brookfield Place in Lower Manhattan. A canopy of hundreds of glowing cube lanterns, designed by Rockwell Group’s LAB, hangs above the atrium and leads you toward the Hudson River waterfront. Touch a Wishing Station, make a wish, and the lanterns respond with a wave of light and music.
Luminaries typically returns in mid-November and stays through the holidays. Brookfield Place announces its 2026 holiday program in November.
Quick Facts
| When | Typically mid-November through early January (2026 dates to be announced) |
|---|---|
| Light shows | Choreographed shows run regularly throughout the day and evening |
| Cost | Free |
| Where | Winter Garden, Brookfield Place, 230 Vesey St, Manhattan |
| Subway | E to World Trade Center; 1 to WTC Cortlandt; PATH to WTC |
The Wish Stations
Each wish made at the Wishing Stations triggers a light display, and Brookfield Place has donated to charitable partners based on the wishes made during the season. It’s a nice touch that makes the installation feel part of the holiday spirit.
Nearby
Walk outside to the waterfront plaza for Hudson River sunsets, then head to the NYSE Christmas tree or the Seaport. The Oculus next door also decorates for the holidays.
About Brookfield Place and the Winter Garden
Brookfield Place is a shopping, dining and office complex in Battery Park City, on the Hudson River. Its centerpiece, the Winter Garden, is a soaring glass atrium with palm trees and a grand staircase, overlooking the North Cove marina. It’s a free, warm place to visit any time of year, and at Christmas the Luminaries canopy fills it with color.
Tips
- Visit in the evening when the lanterns glow brightest.
- Make a wish at a Wishing Station to trigger a light show.
- Have a meal at the food hall or restaurants inside.
- Step outside to the waterfront for sunset over the Hudson.
Nearby
The Rink at Brookfield Place is just outside, and A Christmas Carol at PAC NYC is a short walk east.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Luminaries at Brookfield Place free?
Yes, the installation and light shows are free.
When does Luminaries open in 2026?
It typically opens in mid-November. Check Brookfield Place New York for 2026 dates.
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