Step Inside Tim Burton’s World: 'Nightmare Before Christmas' Light Trail Returns

Jack Skellington, Sally, and Zero are back to light up the night! Disney Tim Burton’s "The Nightmare Before Christmas" Light Trail has officially returned to the New York Botanical Garden for its second year, running from September 25 through November 30, 2025. The 10-week limited engagement promises more magic, more surprises, and a brand-new level of wonder for fans of Tim Burton’s cult classic. After last year’s sold-out run, the immersive outdoor spectacle has been reimagined with new scenes, dazzling lights, and cutting-edge technology, making it one of New York City’s must-see seasonal events this fall.

Guests are invited to step into the world of Burton’s imagination, walking through 8,300 square feet of light installations, interactive video projections, intelligent LED displays, and 3D-printed sculptures of the film’s most beloved characters. Along the way, fans will encounter iconic moments from the movie, from Jack’s eerie charisma to Sally’s tender heart, all set against the lush backdrop of the nation’s most famous botanical garden.

Producer Jeffrey Seller, the Tony Award-winning visionary behind "Hamilton," emphasized the event’s goal of joy and surprise. “We are here because we need joy in our lives… because we want to have fun experiences with our kids, our friends, and our families,” Seller told media, including The Blast, ahead of opening night. "Occasionally, we want to be surprised, maybe even astonished."

For its second year, the creative team behind the Light Trail, Adventurelive, and LETSGO, in partnership with Buena Vista Theatrical, took inspiration from Broadway’s preview process. Just like refining a show before opening night, they asked, "How can we make it better?"

The answer? Elevate every aspect of the experience. “It’s going to be a better customer experience. The beer is better, the wine is better, the pretzels and the popcorn are better, and the hot chocolate and cider are better,” Seller said, highlighting the expanded food and beverage offerings. A brand-new merchandise store featuring themed apparel and collectibles also awaits guests, proudly reminding fans that “Jack is back.”

Beyond the upgrades in hospitality, the trail itself has been supercharged with more lights, more sculptures, and more surprises. “If you put all of the lights and all of the sculptures together, it would take over 10,000 square feet,” Seller revealed.

One of the most unique aspects of the Light Trail is how it interacts with nature itself. The open-air setting means that no two nights are the same, whether it’s a crisp autumn breeze, a foggy evening, or even bats flying overhead. “That’s part of the surprise, and that’s part of the astonishment,” Seller said.

“By doing it in this natural environment with the trees, the leaves, the clouds, maybe rain on one night," he continued. "You never know how you’re going to interact with it. It changes every single night, just a little bit.” This element of unpredictability gives each visitor a one-of-a-kind experience, ensuring that repeat trips will always feel fresh and magical.

The event’s appeal extends to kids and adults alike. During opening remarks, the Seller even brought a young guest, Fifi from Brooklyn, up to the center stage, who delighted the audience dressed half as Jack and half as Sally. “All the characters are waiting for you inside,” Seller promised.

Whether you’re attending with family, friends, or on a festive date night, the immersive trail offers something for everyone, from the nostalgic magic of Burton’s film to the Instagram-worthy lights that transform the garden into a spooky-meets-festive wonderland.

Ready to experience the magic for yourself? Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Disney Tim Burton’s "The Nightmare Before Christmas" Light Trail.

• Dates: September 25 – November 30, 2025
• Location: New York Botanical Garden, Bronx, NY
• Hours: Wednesday–Sunday, dusk to 10 PM
• Tickets: Starting at $33 for children, $45 timed-entry adults, $56 flex-entry adults
• Where to Buy: TheNightmareBeforeChristmasLightTrail.com

With its blend of artistry, technology, and pure holiday spirit, Disney Tim Burton’s "The Nightmare Before Christmas" Light Trail is more than just an event, it’s a seasonal tradition in the making. So grab your hot chocolate or apple cider, put on your “Jack is Back” tee, and get ready to experience Halloween and Christmas colliding in the most enchanting way imaginable.