Old Bethpage Village Restoration is a recreated mid-1800s Long Island village of farmhouses, a church, a general store and a tavern. During the holidays, its Candlelight Evenings light the village with candles and lanterns, while carolers, brass quartets and costumed interpreters share how Christmas was celebrated before electricity. A decorated 1866-style tree is a highlight.
In 2025, Candlelight Evenings ran December 19–23 and 26–29. Expect a similar schedule in late December 2026; Nassau County posts dates and tickets in the fall.
Quick Facts
| Typical dates | Evenings in the week before Christmas and between Christmas and New Year’s (2025: Dec 19–23 and 26–29) |
|---|---|
| Where | Old Bethpage Village Restoration, 1303 Round Swamp Rd, Old Bethpage, NY 11804 |
| Tickets | Timed admission; children under 4 free; book online in advance |
| Good for | Families, history lovers, anyone wanting an old-fashioned Christmas |
What to Expect
You’ll walk between buildings lit only by candles and lanterns, warming up inside farmhouses where interpreters talk about 19th-century holiday customs. Music drifts across the village green from carolers and brass players. It’s quiet, atmospheric and a lovely antidote to the big light shows.
Tips
- Wear sturdy shoes; paths are dirt and gravel and can be icy.
- Bring a small flashlight for walking between buildings.
- Tickets are limited; reserve early for the nights right before Christmas.
Similar Experiences
In New York City, Historic Richmond Town’s Candlelight Tours are the closest equivalent. On Long Island’s Gold Coast, the decorated mansions at Old Westbury Gardens are another historic holiday outing.
About Old Bethpage Village Restoration
Old Bethpage Village Restoration is a Nassau County–run living history museum that recreates a mid-19th-century Long Island village. Its historic buildings were moved here from across Long Island and restored, and costumed interpreters bring the village to life with crafts, farming and music.
What to Expect
- Candle- and lantern-lit paths between historic homes.
- Carolers and brass music on the village green.
- Stories of 19th-century Christmas customs.
- A decorated period Christmas tree.
Tips
- Book tickets in advance.
- Wear warm boots for gravel and dirt paths.
- Bring a small flashlight.
More on Long Island
See our Christmas on Long Island guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are the Old Bethpage candlelight evenings?
They run on select evenings in late December. In 2025 they were December 19–23 and 26–29; check Nassau County Parks for 2026 dates.
Do I need tickets?
Yes, tickets are required and are best reserved in advance.
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