I am pretty sure they stay on during the extended hours. It is beautiful and awesome to see all those many lights. We were there for one night for the beginning ceremony before they turned the lights on and it was really good. There is comedy and music and then a huge deal to turn on the lights. I advise to see it as they are turning on the lights. The crowds were light and we were up front and only got there 20 minutes before they turned the lights on.