Who wouldn't love a holiday spent in one of the most lavish places in New York? While the city might get all of the glory for its nearly 90-foot tree and dazzling window displays, out on Long Island, the Hamptons rings in the holidays in just as unique a way.
Known for the vineyards that line the North Fork and the high-end designer stores that line the South Fork, both convey certain magic during the winter that's unparalleled. From seeing how the other half lives to visiting vineyards that are turned into winter wonderlands, here's why holidays in the Hamptons are the best.
The Hamptons Holiday Atmosphere
For those who have ever watched the holiday episodes of Barefoot Contessa, what's seen on TV is pretty accurate. Not only does this oceanside oasis become a holiday haven, but every town along the South Fork is aglow with holiday lights.
Each shop features its own window display, and the chill in the air is the perfect accompaniment to an evening cup of cocoa by the fireside. While most people make their way to the Hamptons in the summer months, the winter months showcase a whole new side of this Long Island hotspot.
What To See
Of course, the Hamptons is going to be full of tremendous homes that have been decked to the nines with professional lighting displays. Simply driving around is an activity in itself, and it's worth it to get a free light show. For those wishing to see actual light displays, here are some places to start:
- Riverhead Holiday Light Show: Tickets can be purchased online, and the light display goes until December 30th. It's also the largest drive-thru light show on the East End of Long Island so it's worth working into the itinerary.
- Light Up The Harbor: For the 2021 season, all of the holiday fun begins on December 19th. Visitors arrive at 2 PM for a full award ceremony after viewing the official house decorating contest, and are then treated to Dickens Carolers, a holiday-lit boat parade, and a traditional book sale.
- Christmas House Long Island: Another attraction in Riverhead, visitors have the chance to walk through three vintage-style rooms that are completed outfitted in holiday decor. The tour will get anyone in the mood with festive music and unique light displays, as well as visits with Santa himself.
- MenorahCade: For those who have never heard of a Hanukkah parade before, they're in luck! Those wishing to partake in the festivities can top their cars with a menorah or other Hanukkah decorations before lining up to drive (and honk!) in Easthampton's unique tribute to the Festival of Lights on December 15th.
- Wölffer Estate Vineyard: Not far from Southampton, visitors will find this incredible award-winning (24, to be exact) vineyard. As a staple in the winery scene of the Hampton's, Wölffer is home to many events, including the Lighting of the Vines. While this year's event is sold out, early birds should take advantage of this incredible vineyard light show during the 2022 season.
Where To Eat
For those eager to make good on the promise of hot cocoa on a chilly night while watching last-minute holiday shoppers, there's one place to go: Hampton Coffee Company. Not only does this coffee shop offer some of the best coffee on the island, but it's a great place to grab a gourmet bite to eat and simply relax this holiday season. Visitors won't need a reason to visit one of five of these coffee & espresso bars, but their freshly-baked goods (muffins, scones, croissants, cinnamon rolls, and the like) make one heck of a convincing argument. For those seeking a heartier meal, their signature soups, sandwiches and paninis, salads, and wraps are great options, as well.
Found in:
- Water Mill
- Westhampton Beach
- Southampton
- Aquebogue
- Montauk
For those seeking a luxe, sit-down dinner, there's perhaps none better than 75 Main in Southampton. This Italian-style restaurant has been a fine-dining staple in the Hamptons and continues to showcase a modern, intimate atmosphere featuring some of the best high-end dishes around. With local fare that's been given an Italian twist, as well as brunch and lunch that includes things such as a black truffle burger and roasted beef tenderloin hash, this restaurant will surely win over any foodie's heart.
- 75 Main St., Southampton, NY
Where To Stay
Moving over the Bridgehampton, the Topping Rose House has been sporting a reputation for excellence for some time now. Featuring full-service amenities, a farm-to-table restaurant, and an intimate wellness center, it's tough to be this centrally-located hotel. To top it all off, Topping Rose House also offers luxury cars to its guests for quick travel around the Hamptons.
- Prices range from $194 to $495 during Christmas week
For those seeking that fireplace that was mentioned earlier, head to East Hampton to book a room at the Mill House Inn. This intimate setting features ten rooms with several suites featuring the perfect fireplace setting from which to enjoy a chilly winter's day. If it's not the incredible, locally-inspired food from Gary's Kitchen that inspires a guest, it will surely be the overall coziness and charm of this inn that makes one a forever fan.
- Room rates vary depending on the accommodation and time of booking