Lights on the Lake
Visitors experience the holiday light displays from the comfort of their own cars along the park trail. Drivers are asked to turn off their headlights and tune their car radios to Sunny 102.1 FM for synchronized holiday music.
What to Expect
Drive-through holiday light show along Onondaga Lake Park.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Onondaga Lake Park
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Onondaga County Parks
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday-light fans
Vibe
Festive and relaxed
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Vehicle Admission (seating capacity of 16 or less): Monday–Thursday $10; Friday–Sunday $20; Charity Nights (11/23, 11/24 & 1/4) $5. Minibus (seating capacity of 17–25): any date $24. Motorcoach/School Bus (seating capacity of 26+): any date $75. – Get tickets
- Hours: 5:00 -10:00pm.
- Parking: Port-a-johns are available in the parking lot just past the ticket booths and in the parking lot at the end of the show.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive with a full tank of gas and snacks, as waits on very busy nights can last up to two hours.
- If your ticket is on your phone, pull up its QR code and brighten your screen before reaching the ticket booth.
- Turn off your headlights during the drive-through; if your vehicle cannot do so, leave distance from the vehicle ahead when possible.
- If your chosen date sells out, select another date because admission is capped to ensure vehicles can complete the show.
- Plan for restroom stops before joining a busy line, as waits for the port-a-johns can be longer on busy nights.
Special Events & Promotions
- Charity Nights are November 23, November 24, and January 4.
- The event includes a 5K Walk & Run, Opening Charity Night, Doggy Drive-Thru, Salute the Troops, and Closing Charity Night; dates are not given.
- Vehicle admission is discounted Monday–Thursday compared with Friday–Sunday.
- Minibuses and motorcoaches/school buses have separate admission categories based on seating capacity.
- Group Sale Tickets are available; details are on the linked group sales page.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy a ticket for a particular night?
Yes. Tickets are valid only for the night selected, and you can use them at any point during that evening’s admission window.
What should I bring while waiting in line?
Bring a full tank of gas and snacks. You can also print the free activity pages for the family.
What should I do with my headlights and radio?
Turn off your headlights if possible and tune your car radio to Sunny 102.1 FM for the holiday music channel.
Can I get out of my vehicle during the display?
No. This is a drive-through event, and visitors must stay in their vehicles.
What happens if my chosen night sells out or the weather is bad?
If your date sells out, choose another date. The event operates in all kinds of weather and closes only if Onondaga County issues a state of emergency.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.