Millions of lights and hundreds of wildlife lanterns spread across 6 lantern trails representing almost 100 animal and plant species will connect you to the real wildlife and wild places that our WCS staff works to protect through our field programs around the world, and at our zoos and aquarium in New York.

Insider Scoop: True Holiday Lights devotees will want to complete the full animal lantern safari by visiting all six lantern trails: Africa, Asia, Latin America, North America, Ocean, and Forest of Color. There are nearly 400 lanterns in all, representing almost 100 animal and plant species.

Astor Court is holiday central, featuring the majestic tree, musical light show, illuminated performers, and, of course, the nearby kids’ holiday train, giving our youngest visitors a fun-filled joy ride.

Insider Scoop: Keep your camera handy in this area; it’s a great place for photos, with plenty of areas to help you create the perfect “photo op” moments so you can capture memories with your group.

The holidays become interactive with light projections to engage the senses. Kids can do more than just watch the lights here - colored stepping stones, floor and hand interactives, snow and bubble machines and more help them to take part in the fun. Look for them at Dancing Crane Plaza, Enchanted Sea and other locations.

Insider Scoop: Another great way to get “hands-on” is to take a ride on the Bug Carousel, which will be available for rides throughout Holiday Lights and is included with your ticket to the event.