It may be a hard pill for some of us to swallow, but the holiday season is upon us and it’s time to get in the spirit! You may have already seen your neighbors begin to put up their decorations on their front lawns or started to break out your ornaments from storage, but if you’re really looking to dive into the holidays we have the perfect way for you to do so. Kicking off the season in the most delightfully dazzling way, there’s a winter walk in New York’s Capital that you’ll want to check out for yourself before it’s gone! Get ready to experience one of the best walk-through light displays in New York.

Editor’s Note: The 2023 Capital Holiday Lights Extravaganza has been postponed until 2024. For more information, be sure to check out the official Albany visitor’s guide website. 

Most of us may be used to experiencing Albany's Capital Holiday Lights In The Park from the seat of our toasty warm car, what you might not know is that you can actually get the chance to stroll through the park this season as well!
Price Chopper/Market 32 Capital Holiday Lights in the Park/Facebook
You're going to love this Christmas light hike in New York. It's perfect for the whole family!
This year you'll have four different chances to walk through the lights in the park, with a variety of exciting events taking place that are all dedicated to a good cause.
Price Chopper/Market 32 Capital Holiday Lights in the Park/Facebook

Related Stories

Muttontown Preserve Nature Trail In New York Leads Straight To An Abandoned Mansion

Muttontown Preserve Nature Trail In New York Leads Straight To An Abandoned Mansion

 Hike To A Little-Known Suspension Bridge At Black Creek Preserve In New York

Hike To A Little-Known Suspension Bridge At Black Creek Preserve In New York

 Take A Thrilling Ride At Chestnut Ridge Park In New York This Winter

Take A Thrilling Ride At Chestnut Ridge Park In New York This Winter
Come walk through Washington Park and see over 125 different light displays and magical sceneries that have been created all around you.
Price Chopper/Market 32 Capital Holiday Lights in the Park/Facebook
Only offered on select dates, Capital Holiday Lights' walk-through dates are absolutely magical. This year, visitors can stroll through the grounds on November 23 - 25 and January 3. These dates benefit local charities, so you won't want to miss out on helping a good cause.
Price Chopper/Market 32 Capital Holiday Lights in the Park/Facebook
That's right! These are the only dates you'll be able to walk through the park. On November 23rd from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., you can experience Albany PAL's Craft Beer, Wine & Spirits Festival at Washington Park. Those interested in going this night must be 21 and older. Tickets cost $29.95 in advance or $44.95 at the door. The purchase of this ticket will get you into the park to walk through and see the lights while you enjoy good music and plenty of wine tastings.

On November 24th from 4 p.m to 7 p.m., you can enjoy the Holiday Lights' most delicious evening, where samples from your favorite restaurants all around Albany will be offered! Listen to music, enjoy craft vendors and even get the chance to meet Santa if you're looking in all the right places.

Let's also not forget the park will also host Pet Walk Night on November 25th from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. where you can walk your pet around the lake. And last but not least, January 3rd will be the park's final Charity Walk Night! From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., visitors will be able to walk around the park and see the lights in a way that most don't.
To find out more information about the Capital Holiday Lights in the Park Charity Walk Nights, click here.

Are you eager to get into the holiday spirit? What are your favorite things to do in winter in New York?

If you’re looking to make more winter plans, then read about this one epic slide in New York you need to ride this winter!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

best winter hike in New York

Elisa Regulski | October 22, 2019

What are the best walk through light displays in New York?

For another Christmas light hike in New York, explore Holiday Lights at The Bronx Zoo. This cheerful tradition lets you see the zoo like never before. With tons of twinkling lights, hundreds of displays, and plenty of festive treats, this annual event is like no other. They even have roaming carolers and live ice sculptors! This merry event will definitely make you feel like a kid again.

Can I go hiking in the winter in New York?

There are so many great places for winter hiking in New York. The Gorge Trail at Taughannock Falls State Park is one of the most spectacular. This easy hike is perfect for when the weather gets cold. You’ll feel like you have the whole place to yourself! When snow covers the trees, the views are astounding. Be sure to wear good shoes on this hike. In the winter, these paths can get slippery. For another gorgeous winter hike, head to the Kaaterskill Falls Trail in Greene County. This easy hike is perfect for cold days. You can stare at the majestic waterfall without spending too much time in the elements. For more information about winter hiking in New York, read our feature article here.

What are the best parks to visit in the winter in New York?

Filmore Glen State Park is an amazing place to visit during winter. Not many people think about visiting this stunning Moravia destination when it’s chilly, but the views are absolutely astounding. People also love exploring Green Lakes State Park in Fayetteville during the wintertime. No matter where you go, one thing is certain: New York is home to unrivaled beauty.

Related Articles

Explore New York

Featured Addresses
Washington Park, Albany, NY, USA