Magic of Lights turns the roads of Jones Beach State Park into a drive-through holiday light show, with LED tunnels, animated scenes and characters synced to music you play through your car radio. It’s one of the most popular Christmas outings on Long Island and works in any weather, since you stay warm in your car.
The 2026–27 season runs November 20, 2026 to January 3, 2027.
Quick Facts
| Dates | November 20, 2026 – January 3, 2027 |
|---|---|
| Hours | Sun–Thu 5–10 p.m.; Fri–Sat 5–11 p.m. |
| Tickets (per car) | November-only online: $22 (gate $30). Santa Saver any day: $29.98; weekday Santa Saver (Mon–Thu): $25.99. Season pass: $89.99. Limos and buses cost more. |
| Where | Jones Beach State Park, 350 Bay Pkwy, Wantagh, NY 11793 |
| Getting there | Wantagh State Parkway or Meadowbrook State Parkway south to Jones Beach |
| Official site | magicoflights.com/locations/jonesbeach |
What to Expect
The route takes 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Expect light tunnels, giant LED scenes and digital animations, with a holiday soundtrack on a designated radio station. At the end there’s typically a walk-through holiday area with Santa photos, s’mores and hot cocoa.
How to Save Money
- Go in November: November-only online tickets are the cheapest ($22 per car) but cannot be used in December.
- Buy early: the Santa Saver deals must be bought before the season opens.
- Weeknights: the weekday Santa Saver is valid Monday to Thursday.
- Regulars: the season pass pays off after four visits.
Tips
- Weekend nights in December can mean long lines on the parkway. Arrive right at 5 p.m. or after 8 p.m.
- Turn off your headlights in the display area if staff direct you to, and use parking lights.
- Bring snacks and use the restroom beforehand; lines can be slow.
More Long Island Light Shows
Compare with the walk-through LuminoCity Holiday Lights at Eisenhower Park, the new Nassau Coliseum drive-through and the Riverhead Holiday Light Show out east.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Magic of Lights Jones Beach 2026?
November 20, 2026 through January 3, 2027.
How much is Magic of Lights Jones Beach?
Prices are per car. November-only online tickets are $22 ($30 at the gate). Santa Saver tickets are $29.98 any day or $25.99 for weekdays, and a season pass is $89.99.
What are the hours?
5 to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5 to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
How long does it take to drive through?
Most visitors take 30 to 45 minutes, plus any wait to enter.
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