The PNC Bank Art Center Light Show: Take a ride through the holidays with the Magic of Lights

Jessica Woods

Located just off the Garden State Parkway at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, the Magic of Lights is one of the biggest and best light displays in New Jersey, but it can also be one of the most frustrating. The sheer popularity of this large drive-through light show sometimes makes for a difficult time getting in.

Tickets start at $30 per car and you can purchase snacks at the start of the tour. The light show winds through the parking lot and access roads around the art center and is themed with different sections including Toyland, Candy Land, Fairy Tales, Christmas Around the World, the 12 Days of Christmas, and a sports themed area. Some of the more interesting spots include the ornament passage and snowflake forest.

Make sure you arrive early because last year, we went twice and the gates were already locked due to overcapacity an hour before the gates were scheduled to close.


If and when you do get in, once you get driving, the experience is delightful, even if sometimes getting in can be frightful.

The ride is dog friendly and besides your family, your best friend can come along for the ride. The full ride takes about twenty minutes.

The PNC Bank Arts Center Magic of Lights runs from November 19th to January 2nd.

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