Where to go for the Most Festive Holiday Happenings on Long Island

From Christmas tree lightings to live choir performances, Long Island has lots to offer for the holiday season. Here are some of the places to go for festivities all throughout the winter. Old Westbury Gardens Nothing can be more uplifting and festive, especially during the holidays, than live music. At Old Westbury Gardens , you can be among the first to view Westbury House fully lit and decorated while listening to a live choir performance. The Gardens’ First Night and Tree Lighting event includes a tree lighting ceremony and a visit from Santa Clause to make for a magical evening. The rest of their December calendar includes activities like Children’s Holiday Crafts, a Winter Owl Prowl and Afternoon Tea. Port Jefferson Village For its 23rd Annual Dicken’s Festival , the Village of Port Jefferson becomes the place to be to see characters brought to life. Roam the streets and interact with characters such as Scrooge, Father Christmas and the Town Crier. Activities for all ages include ice skating, magic shows, ballet performances of The Nutcracker and music performances. The quaint and charming streets of Port Jeff, as locals call it, is the perfect setting for this step-back-in-time event. Jones Beach State Park Normally reserved for summer, Jones Beach State Park transforms into a winter wonderland for its holiday light show,  Magic of Lights . The route stretches out for over a mile and visitors can admire animated holiday themes without ever leaving the warmth of their car. The Shops at Milleridge Explore these traditional-themed shops on a clear, winter night. The quaint Milleridge Village is part of both the Milleridge Cottage that hosts weddings and events, and the Milleridge Inn, a historic restaurant. The Village’s General Store, Christmas Shoppe and Candy Shoppe offer unique and old-fashioned gift items, edibles and home decor. Vanderbilt Mansion Annual, special twilight tours of the mansion allow visitors to experience the residence by night. Decorated in all its finery, the mansion is a delight to explore by day, and night gives it an extra festive meaning. View their event calendar for other festive happenings. Be that much closer to all that Long Island has to offer.