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.
Nov 21, 2026 – Jan 4, 2027 All ages
See more Christmas events near Liverpool
Plan Your Visit
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.
Hours
5:00 -10:00pm.
Neighborhood
Onondaga Lake Park
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.
Location
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.
Links & Contact
Run by Onondaga County Parks
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
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.
Browse Christmas in Syracuse
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.