Illustration of a light display scene (The Fairgrounds Festival of Lights)
Christmas Lights

The Fairgrounds Festival of Lights

WNY's largest holiday light show, the Festival of Lights in Hamburg, NY, illuminates the fairgrounds with over 70 dazzling displays and a 76-foot Christmas tree. Visitors can choose between a magical drive-thru experience with synchronized lights and music, or a full festival with walk-up attractions like Santa's Barnyard, the Whoville Express train, and a holiday market. Enjoy festive food, crafts, and entertainment for an enchanting holiday celebration.

What to Expect

WNY's largest holiday light show with dual drive-thru and walk-up experiences.

Event Details

Duration

5:00 PM - 10:00 PM (varies by date)

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

The Fairgrounds

Food & Drink

Food trucks and vendors offering seasonal drinks, beer, wine, cider, and classic holiday snacks are available.

Get Tickets

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, couples, groups

Vibe

Festive, magical, enchanting

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Partial (drive-thru is weather-dependent, walk-up attractions are partially indoors)

Location

The Fairgrounds
5600 McKinley Parkway
Hamburg, NY
14075

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
  • Parking: Accessible parking is available in paved lots with designated spots. Parking is available for vehicles attending the drive-thru experience.
  • Accessibility: Accessible parking is available in paved lots with designated spots. Wheelchair or scooter rentals are not available.
  • Pets: No pets allowed (service animals only)

Tips & Advice

  • Purchase tickets online in advance, as limited tickets are available per night and admission is carload-based.
  • Check the specific dates for 'Full Festival Experience' versus 'Drive-Thru Only' to plan your visit accordingly.
  • Tune into Ho Ho Radio (87.9 FM) during the drive-thru portion for music synchronized with the light displays.
  • Consider attending on 'Silent Night' (November 30) for a more sensory-friendly experience in the walk-around portion.
  • Look for special discount nights like December 7th for a reduced carload price and to watch the Buffalo Bills game.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Silent Night (November 30) for sensory-friendly accommodations
  • $20 Discount Night (December 7) with live Buffalo Bills game viewing
  • Santa Speed Lane Pass available for purchase to skip the line for Santa

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there accessible parking?

Yes, there is accessible parking available for events in paved lots with designated spots.

Can I bring my pet?

No pets are allowed. Only service animals are permitted on the Fairgrounds.

Where can I find tickets I purchased?

Visit www.the-fairgrounds.com/findmyorder and enter the last 4 digits of the credit card used for purchase.

What are the hours for the event?

The drive-thru gate is typically open from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and walk-around portions are open until 10:00 PM, with variations on specific dates.

Are there any special discount nights?

Yes, December 7th offers a $20 discount night for the full experience, and you can also purchase a Santa Speed Lane Pass for an additional fee to skip the line for Santa.

Tags

holiday light displaysfamily friendlySanta visitstrain ridesfestive foodholiday shoppingcommunity celebrationseasonal activitieslight displaysinteractive displays

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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.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team