Christmas on Staten Island 2026: Lanterns, Candlelight Tours & the Ferry

Staten Island is the easiest borough to make into a holiday adventure: the free ferry ride is part of the fun.

• Winter Lantern Festival at Snug Harbor — select nights Nov 19 – Jan 10.
• Historic Richmond Town — tree lighting Dec 4, festival Dec 5–6, candlelight tours Dec 11–12.
• Staten Island Ballet’s Nutcracker at the College of Staten Island the weekend before Christmas (see Nutcrackers).
• The Staten Island Ferry — free 24/7, with the Statue of Liberty and lit skyline.

A Staten Island Holiday Day Trip

• Afternoon: take the free Staten Island Ferry from Whitehall Terminal, watching the Statue of Liberty and skyline.
• Late afternoon: explore Snug Harbor’s historic campus and gardens.
• Evening: the Winter Lantern Festival.
• Night: ferry back for the lit-up Lower Manhattan skyline.

Historic Richmond Town

This living history village has more than 30 buildings spanning three centuries. In December it hosts a tree lighting (December 4, 2026), a holiday festival (December 5–6) and its famous Candlelight Tours (December 11–12). See Christmas at Historic Richmond Town.

Ferry Tips

• The ferry is free and runs 24 hours a day, roughly every 15–30 minutes depending on the time.
• For the best Statue of Liberty views heading to Staten Island, stand on the right side of the boat.
• The crossing takes about 25 minutes.

Getting Around the Island

Buses connect the ferry terminal at St. George with Snug Harbor (S40/S44) and Historic Richmond Town (S74). For the Staten Island Ballet Nutcracker at the College of Staten Island, a taxi from the ferry is easiest.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Staten Island holiday events?

Take the free Staten Island Ferry from Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan, then a local bus.

Is the Staten Island Ferry free?

Yes, the Staten Island Ferry is free and runs 24 hours a day.

How long is the Staten Island Ferry ride?

About 25 minutes each way.