In a New York where traditional holiday performances are cancelled, Rockefeller Center tree viewings are timed and travel is ill-advised, it's beginning to feel a lot like the COVID-19 Grinch stole Christmas.
Image Credit: AFP
2 of 14
But in Brooklyn's illuminated Dyker Heights neighbourhood, not even a pandemic can keep the festive spirit down.
Image Credit: AFP
3 of 14
The quasi-suburban residential district features large single-family homes that in late November start shimmering with elaborate holiday displays.
Image Credit: AFP
4 of 14
This year tourism is reined in as are bus tours to the southwestern Brooklyn neighborhood that proudly displays its Italian-American heritage.
Image Credit: AFP
5 of 14
But its in-your-face Christmas glow is still drawing large crowds, albeit with most in masks.
Image Credit: AFP
6 of 14
A house is decorated for Christmas in the Brooklyn neighbourhood of Dyker Heights.
Image Credit: AFP
7 of 14
"I'm in awe," said Eric Steiner, who journeyed from Manhattan with his husband to see the displays for the first time.
Image Credit: AFP
8 of 14
"It's such a festive spirit at a time when things are, you know, uncertain and scary for a lot of people," the 47-year-old told AFP in front of a home draped with thousands of glittering lights.
Image Credit: AFP
9 of 14
According to local lore the tradition began in the mid-1980s, started by a woman named Lucy Spata in honor of her mother's memory.
Image Credit: AFP
10 of 14
Homes are decorated for Christmas in the Brooklyn neighbourhood of Dyker Heights.
Image Credit: AFP
11 of 14
Her home is barely visible behind the lavish display featuring angels, Santas, nutcrackers and a gold throne with crimson upholstery where gawkers can snap photos.
Image Credit: AFP
12 of 14
"A lot of people are getting depressed," said holiday lights tour guide Robert Perez. "I think this brings a little laughter and happiness."
Image Credit: AFP
13 of 14
Tour guide Perez said this year is different in that most people coming for the lights are local - "you had people coming in from Italy, Europe" in the past, he said.
Image Credit: AFP
14 of 14
The festivities gridlock traffic and make parking impossible but the lights are a boon to local businesses.
Image Credit: AFP
This website stores cookies on your computer. These cookies are used to improve your experience and provide more personalized service to you.
Both on your website and other media. To find out more about the cookies and data we use, please check out our Privacy Policy.
