New Jersey is packed with fun this weekend, from holiday markets and tree lightings to concerts, Christmas parades and visits with Santa. Whether you’re in the mood for a craft fair, a holiday village or live music, there are festive events happening in every corner of the state.
WEEKEND
Wildwoods Fall Restaurant Week
The Wildwoods
Wednesday – Sunday
A group of the Wildwoods’ top restaurants will offer special prix fixe breakfast, lunch and dinner menus.
Terhune Orchards Fall Art Show
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
Wednesday – Sunday
This year’s exhibit honors the Mount family with the theme “50 Years of Terhune Orchards.” Displayed inside the 250-year-old red barn, the art showcases original works inspired by the farm’s landscape, history and community over the past five decades.
Hub City Holiday Tree Lighting
New Brunswick
Thursday
Enjoy live musical entertainment before and after the tree lighting ceremony. During this year’s event, shop from local crafters and small businesses, offering handcrafted goods, art, and unique holiday gifts. Other activities include a theater performance by George Street Playhouse, live music by Danielle Illario and Grace Luv, a gingerbread house contest, and free skating on the synthetic iceless rink.
Downtown Wildwood Christmas in the Plaza
Byrne Plaza, Downtown Wildwood
Friday – Saturday
The Greater Wildwood Jaycees will host free carnival rides and vendors, plus live music and storytime with Mrs. Claus.
Winter Wonderland & Holiday Village
Town Hall, Union Twp.
Friday – Saturday
The front and back parking lots will be filled with holiday cheer. There will be a tree lighting, live music, synthetic ice skating rink, strolling characters, Mrs. Claus Sweet Treats Bakery, Santa’s Workshop, a trackless fire truck, curling, a photo booth, more than 40 craft vendors, fire pit areas, and a hot cocoa and beer garden.
Hammonton Rotary Club Winterfest
Mount Carmel Carnival Grounds, Hammonton
Friday – Sunday
There will be vendors, family-friendly activities and live performances.
Weihnachtsmarkt German Christmas Market of New Jersey
Sussex County Fairgrounds, Augusta
Friday – Sunday
There will be a carousel, pony rides, horse-drawn wagon rides, a petting zoo, a wagon parade, visits with Santa in the courtyard gazebo, storytime with Mrs. Claus and her Elf, a Christmas tree lighting on Friday, festive lights, ice sculptures, and the Pocono Mountain Garden Railway Society train display in the Greenhouse, a visit with author Sue Steinhardt and her dog Imperfect Phil, face painting, and a German Christmas traditions display.
New Jersey Symphony: Elf in Concert
Saturday: NJPAC, Newark
Sunday: Count Basie Center for the Arts
The holiday classic about Buddy the Elf finding his real father takes place on a giant screen as John Debney’s music is played live to picture.
Winter Village / Festival of Trees / Dickens Days
The Red Mill Museum Village, Clinton
Saturday – Sunday
Marketspace Vendor Events will set up a holiday market in a heated outdoor space, with more than 50 local craft artisans, food trucks and activities. This will coincide with the Festival of Trees, plus Dickens Days (theatrical carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides and Victorian-era charm take over Downtown Clinton).
Noyes Holiday Market & Gingerbread Village
Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University, Atlantic City
Saturday – Sunday
Activities include craft vendors, photos with Santa, a gingerbread village contest, live music, food and drinks, craft making, and a toy drive.
New Jersey Festival Orchestra Holiday Season
Saturday: Presbyterian Church of Westfield, Westfield
Sunday: The Concert Hall at Drew University, Madison
Award-winning tenors join NJFO to present a selection of holiday music.
Holiday Train Expo
Ocean City Music Pier, Ocean City
Saturday – Sunday
The show will feature running displays, model trains of all gauges and vendors selling various scale model trains.
Christkindlmarkt
Needle Creek Farm Brewery, Pennington
Saturday – Sunday
The indoor and outdoor markets feature artisan vendors, food trucks, farm animals, an outdoor playground, fire pits, s’mores, live music, craft beer, pre-cut Christmas trees and swag.
Bank of America Museums on Us Weekend
Multiple locations
Saturday – Sunday
Bank of America, Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank cardholders can receive free general admission to various cultural attractions on the first full weekend of each month.
FRIDAY
Greater Wildwood Jaycees Annual Christmas Parade
Central Avenue, Wildwood
After the parade, winners will be announced for best decorated floats, and the most festive business lighting contest.
‘Stand By Me’: The Film and Its Stars 40 Years Later
Count Basie Center for the Arts, Red Bank
After you watch a 40th anniversary screening of the ’80s fave, stars Corey Feldman, Jerry O’Connell and Wil Wheaton will share memories, secrets behind the film, and heartfelt reflections on working with their friend and co-star, the late River Phoenix.
Downtown for the Holidays
Downtown Ridgewood
Celebrate the season with a Christmas tree lighting, touch-a-truck, a trackless train, Santa in his golf cart, live music by the Ridgewood High School band and dancers in shop windows.
Clinton Christmas Parade
Clinton
The Guild of Clinton hosts its 39th annual parade.
BIG the Yeti’s 6th Birthday Party
BIG Snow, American Dream, East Rutherford
It’s BIG’s birthday, and anyone else celebrating their birthday tonight will get two free hours on the slopes. There will be a birthday cake and sing-along with BIG, tubing alongside the Yeti, a slalom race with prizes, DJ in the Dome, and a giant inflatable BIG for photo opportunities.
Holiday on Haddon + Parade of Lights
Haddon Twp.
Santa Claus is coming to town, along with decorated fire trucks, bands, floats and holiday characters, before the tree lighting ceremony.
Christmas Parade
Asbury Avenue, Ocean City
Lights, garland, wreaths and bows adorn “The Avenue” as the parade’s bands, floats and other entries come down the street. Look out for characters like The Grinch, and Martin and Mollie Mollusk. Santa Claus provides the finale to the parade, greeting boys and girls from a horse-drawn carriage.
Christmas Parade
Downtown Cape May Court House
Line the streets in Middle Twp. to see your favorite Christmas characters walk and roll by during the parade; then stay for the festival and tree lighting ceremony.
SATURDAY
Christmas on the Farm
Howell Living History Farm, Hopewell
Santa is coming to town – not in a sleigh, but on a steam tractor. There will be Christmas crafts to make your own Victorian angel ornament, live music by the Jugtown Mountain String Band, farm animal visits, tours of the decorated historic farmhouse, demonstrations by the blacksmith, and homemade cookies. Some activities have additional fees.
Westminster Handbell Choir Christmas Concert
First Presbyterian Church, Freehold
The 20-member Westminster Handbell Choir – composed of undergrads and graduate students of Rider University – will “ring” in the Christmas season with holiday classics and original works for handbells. WCC was the first institution in the world to develop such a program, and they use the largest range of handbells in the world. After the concert, audience members 12 and older can ring some of the handbells and chimes.
Santa’s Workshop & Pizza Parlor
Patrizia’s of Red Bank, Red Bank
This collab with Pretty Charming Co. has you customize your own Christmas stocking while enjoying pizza. Santa is expected to make a surprise appearance before hot cocoa, coffee and cookies are served.
Fair in the Square
Verona Civic Center, Verona
The event includes a tree lighting with Santa, food and beverage vendors, and merchant shopping. You can also take a picture with Santa.
Pasko in America
American Dream, East Rutherford
Celebrate Christmas in the Philippine style, with a cultural marketplace, holiday performances, a lantern ceremony, cultural exhibits, a Labubu x Popmart collab, and activities for kids.
Breakfast With Santa
Dave & Buster’s, Wayne
Before the doors open to the public, your family gets VIP access to a breakfast banquet (and photos) with Santa, letter writing to Santa, holiday craft making, and time in the arcade.
Crafts at Christmas Show
Cape May Convention Center, Cape May
The annual craft expo will have dozens of vendors set up for your holiday shopping needs.
Breakfast & Dolphin Watch with Santa
Cape May Whale Watch, Cape May
The 2-hour breakfast cruise aboard the American Star includes a continental brunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and almost-guaranteed sightings of the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, plus a variety of birds and historical landmarks in the distance.
Christmas Craft, Food & Vendor Show
Calgo Gardens, Freehold
There will be 60 craft vendors and a few food trucks on site, in addition to all the holiday landscaping and greenery. Ocean County Society of Model Railroaders will set up inside a greenhouse, operating G-gauge trains which can be used for garden railroads.
Hunterdon Holiday Parade
Main Street, Flemington
Sign up to add your float to this festive parade along Main Street.
Bridgeton Holiday House Tour
Gallery 50, Bridgeton
Come in a Victorian costume and take a tour of the beautifully decorated homes in NJ’s largest historic district. Many of the locations will have their own entertainment, displays, music, food and drinks. You can join a conversation on Greater Bridgeton’s 19th Century Black Communities, and learn about the free Black Communities of Faith and the Underground Railroad in western Cumberland County.
Ventnor City Twilight Holiday Parade
Ventnor Avenue, Ventnor
There will marching bands, fire trucks, floats, classic cars, Santa and Mrs. Claus in the parade.
Salem City’s Magic of Christmas Parade
Route 49 and Broadway, from 4th to Johnson streets, Salem
For more than 40 years, high school bands, pageant contestants, floats, walkers, marchers, entertainers, local groups, dance groups, veterans, antique vehicles and first responders march down the streets with holiday magic.
Holiday Open House
Sea Isle City Museum, first floor of Sea Isle City Library, Sea Isle City
Get into the holiday spirit by taking a “Stroll Through Time,” while there will be snacks and holiday music.
Holiday Lights Parade
Somerville
More than 70 emergency vehicles, decorated by volunteer first responders from across New Jersey, will be led by Santa Claus as they travel through town.
Westwood Home for the Holidays
Westwood
This year’s theme is based on everyone’s favorite holiday movies. There will be activities, entertainment, a DJ, performances, the parade, a tree lighting, a jazz band concert, shopping and dining deals, and a sale of Santa hats.
OCC Concert Band: The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Grunin Center for the Arts, Toms River
This festive concert brings together a collection of your favorite seasonal tunes performed by the talented members of the OCC Concert Band – from classic carols to contemporary arrangements – plus a visit from Santa.
Festival of Trees
American Hungarian Foundation, New Brunswick
As you look at all the beautiful, bright trees decorated for the season, the FHS Madrigal Choir and Hungarian Scouts will perform.
Home for the Holidays: A Macculloch Hall Christmas
Macculloch Hall Historical Museum, Morristown
“Not a Creature Was Stirring: Thomas Nast’s Christmas Animals” is this year’s exhibition of Thomas Nast’s Santa Claus illustrations. There will also be children’s activities including letters to Santa and ornament making, hot cider and cookies on the front porch, and the historic period galleries decorated for Christmas.
The Nutcracker
Levoy Theatre, Millville
Two performances will be presented by the Atlantic City Ballet.
Winter Wonderland
High Street, Millville
There will be pictures with Santa, hair tinseling, vendors, special characters, crafts, pony rides, face painting, and hot cocoa and cookies.
Holiday Community Craft Fair
Trinity United Methodist Church, Hackettstown
Artists will be offering handmade jewelry, sewing and knitted goods, etched glass, and even homemade salsa for sale. In addition to the craft fair, there will be a soup sale and hot chocolate bar. The fair coincides with the Hackettstown Hometown Holiday.
Holiday Light Parade & Festivities
Main Street, Evesham Twp.
Before the parade begins, bring your family for pictures with Santa Claus, free hot chocolate stations along Main Street, festive music, games, holiday videos and a ride on the holiday train. After the Holiday Light Parade, the event finishes with the Holiday Tree Lighting.
Winter Wonderland
Orchard Elementary School, Ridgewood
There will be snacks, games and music at this event, hosted by the RHS World Support Alliance, RHS Cambodia Club, and RHS German Club.
Victorian House Tour
Ocean Grove
Take a peek inside the private Victorian homes, charming inns, community spaces and tents that are beautifully decorated for the holidays.
Ship Bottom Annual Christmas Parade
Borough of Ship Bottom
This beach town on LBI will celebrate 100 years of Christmas as the parade travels from 5th to 25th streets along the boulevard.
Jersey Nutcracker
Wilkins Theater at Kean University, Union Twp.
Nimbus Dance presents a quirky take on the traditional Nutcracker that stars two Jersey kids on a city adventure. It’s set to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, but in a jazzy interpretation with a New Jersey twist.
Santa Paws
North Wildwood Entertainment District
Your pets will get doggie treats and photo ops with Santa at participating establishments along the route. Prizes will be awarded for best doggie costumes.
Wildwood Holiday Spectacular
Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood
The star-studded lineup features Brooklyn Bridge, Richie Santa’s tribute to Elvis, Tommy Cono, and Wildwood’s Own Joey M, who will perform soulful renditions of classic hits and holiday favorites.
Dickens Festival
Main Street, Medford
The historic downtown becomes a Victorian-era wonderland, with The Village Carolers, a parade, a visit by Santa Claus (who arrives on a horse-drawn carriage) and The Grinch, more carriage rides, vendor booths, a live nativity, performances of “A Christmas Carol” by Pirates of Fortune’s Follies, and candy canes given out by elves.
Somers Point Christmas & Holiday Parade
Somers Point
The parade begins at Dawes Avenue School and continues down Shore Road to City Hall, with groups of bands, floats, decorated trucks and boats, and of course Santa along the way.
Downtown Hammonton Tree Lighting
Downtown Hammonton
This year’s celebration will feature The Hammonton Gazette Elf Village, with holiday music, live performances, sing-alongs, games, and activities throughout the night. Santa Claus will light the Town Tree, and then greet families after inside The Bellevue for photos. Free trolley rides start after the ceremony, too.
Shoreline Vintage Holiday Market
Shoreline Vintage & Antiques, Richland
There will be multiple vendors selling vintage holiday decor, antiques, arts & crafts, candles, baked goods and more. Santa will visit, too.
SUNDAY
A Racquet at The Rock
Prudential Center, Newark
World-class tennis takes over the arena, with action-packed exhibition matches featuring Carlos Alcaraz, Frances Tiafoe, Amanda Anisimova and Jessica Pegula.
Whoville Grinch Lunch
The Taproom featuring Santucci’s, Haddon Twp.
There will be themed food and drinks, and a visit from the Grinch himself.
Holiday Craft Fair
Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple, New Brunswick
Browse a market of local vendors offering handmade gifts, seasonal treats, and unique crafts. Bring the whole family for a special storytelling session with local author Karen Rostoker-Gruber, who will share Hanukkah stories alongside a surprise guest. Warm up at the hot cocoa bar or enjoy some holiday treats.
Dutch Christmas Tea
Historic New Bridge Landing, River Edge
Step back in time and sit in the historic Campbell-Christie House for a Dutch Colonial tea that will include a 3-course menu of sandwiches, scones and sweet treats, with a choice of hot beverages. Take a moment to visit Sinterklaas and snap a photo with him. Have a look at the treasures in the gift shop for your holiday presents.
Holiday Jingle Sip & Shop Vendor Market
Garden State Distillery, Toms River
Jenn Zazzara of Shore Crafted brings together local makers, artisans and small businesses for a day of shopping and sipping on craft cocktails.
A Nostalgic Night with Macaulay Culkin
Ovation Hall of Ocean Casino Resort, Atlantic City
Following a 35th anniversary screening of Home Alone, Macaulay Culkin will talk about the film’s iconic moments, behind-the-scenes stories, and his favorite memories from filming.
Reeves-Reed Arboretum Holiday Open House
Reeves-Reed Arboretum, Summit
The free event includes a Sip ‘n’ Shop Holiday Market, holiday greens sale, tree decorating, a woodland winter story walk, choir singing by students from Summit High and Oak Knoll, a holiday raffle, cookies and cocoa, and photos with Santa.
Montclair Doughnut Run
Montclair
Choose from a 5K run or the 600-meter Doughnut Dash for Kids. All registered runners, walkers and kids who race will get a pom pom beanie, commemorative medal, a Montclair Bread tote bag and special treats in a collectible Montclair Bread-branded mason jar once they get to the finish line.
Woodbridge Twp. Holiday Parade
Woodbridge
The parade route travels from Woodbridge High School and ends at Woodbridge Town Hall.
Porta Holiday Market
Porta, Asbury Park
The holiday pop-up sip & shop will feature 25 local handmade artists and makers.
Holiday Hustle
Overpeck Park, Ridgefield Park
Get dressed in Santa hats, reindeer antlers and holiday sweaters, then hit the starting line for this festive 5K that benefits Girls on the Run New Jersey (GOTR), a nonprofit that helps empower young girls through running and mentorship. Prizes will be awarded for the most festive costumes, and finishers will be rewarded with cookies and cocoa.
Holiday Flea & Gift Fair
Bergenfield High School, Bergenfield
There will be roughly 75 vendors set up indoors and possibly outdoors so you can start your holiday shopping.
An Evening With Conan O’Brien, Hosted by Stephen Colbert
NJPAC, Newark
The comedians will join each other on stage for a fundraiser for Montclair Film.
Winter in the Pines
Batsto Village, Hammonton
Seasonal fun includes a meeting with Santa, wagon rides through the historic village and live music in the Pinelands.
Breakfast with Characters
Marcus Live! Bar & Grill, American Dream, East Rutherford
Celebrate the holidays with Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob during a special holiday-themed breakfast.
A Magical Cirque Christmas
Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown
This variety show is full of nostalgia, charm and holiday magic.
Shop the Season Holiday Pop-Up
Teak, Red Bank
The festive rooftop event will include sipping and snacking while you shop for unique gifts from local vendors. There will be a live DJ spinning throughout the afternoon. Tickets include stationed and passed hors d’oeuvres, one free drink, and a ticket for the basket raffle.
Winterfest Market
Haddon Twp.
The outdoor market has unique gifts from area artisans, plus food from local vendors, and a beer garden.
Wayne Valley HS Holiday Craft Show
Wayne Valley High School, Wayne
Over 100 exhibitors will set up a variety of arts and crafts in one huge gym. A bake table and a breakfast and lunch menu will be available in the café; while homemade pickles, kettle korn, chainsaw animals and tie dye will be set up outside. Santa will stop by, too.
ONGOING
The Elf Bar: Christmas Pop-Up Experience
Continental Sports Bar and Lounge, NYC
Select dates, December 4-24
All eyes are on you as hundreds of elf figurines are set up around the bar. There will be elf cocktails and elf-themed games, plus lots of photo ops against a magical Christmas backdrop.
Hometown Holiday
Hackettstown
December 5, 6, 10
Eat, drink and shop locally. Join Santa at the Rec Center on December 5 for a winter wonderland. Jingle Ball on December 10 takes place at David’s Country Inn, where there will be dinner, dancing and a silent auction.
Friday Night Lights
American Dream, East Rutherford
December 5, 12 and 19
Various American Dream brands will take to the Dream Stage with interactive experiences, entertainment, and exclusive product sampling.
A Maker’s Circle Holiday Pop-Up Shop
A Maker’s Circle, Pottersville
December 5-14
Local vendors will sell handmade items like pottery, artwork, ornaments, knitwear, toys, children’s clothes, leather goods and more.
Winter Wonderland Before Time
Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University, Mantua Twp.
Weekends, December 5-28
Celebrate the season with a prehistoric twist; the museum will be decked out in dinosaur-themed holiday décor, and there will be activities like an indoor snowball frenzy, campfire storytime, dinosaur “snow” digs and ornament-making. Have breakfast with Dino Claws (and Friends!) on December 7, 14 and 21. You’ll also get to meet famed paleontologist and EFM founder Dr. Kenneth Lacovara, the paleontologist who discovered Dreadnoughtus, one of the largest dinosaurs ever found, as he shares stories from the prehistoric world.
Harbaugh Village North Pole Experience
Harbaugh Village, Mullica Hill
Select dates, December 5-31
You’ll literally feel like you’re in the North Pole with photos with Santa in the Evergreen, a reindeer stable, letter writing to Santa, holiday light displays, live entertainment, carousel rides, a boardwalk, sports games, ice skating, a vendor village and visits with elves.
Holiday Model Train Show
Garden State Model Railway Club, N. Haledon
December 6-7, 13-14
The open house and model railroad shows feature two operating layouts, Thomas the Tank Engine, a special kids layout, and a play area.
Operation Slumber: Overnights at the Intrepid
Intrepid Museum, New York City
December 6 and 13
Pack a sleeping bag and some snacks because you’ll be spending the night on board the historic aircraft carrier docked in the Hudson River. You’ll take a flashlight tour of the flight deck, go on a simulator ride, build your own boat for the rain gutter regatta, make slime, play with robots, and get a cool patch to take home.
Festival of Trees
Senior Resource Center, Chester
December 6-13
A winter wonderland is set up with decorated trees that you can buy at the end of the week, or they will be donated to senior housing, transitional housing, nursing homes and homeless shelters in the area. During your visit, vote on your favorite, see Santa, and watch the entertainment.
Highlights Tour
Zimmerli Art Museum, New Brunswick
December 6, December 14
Student educators will take you on a free guided tour of the galleries, highlighting key artworks in the Zimmerli’s collection.
Model Railroad Club Holiday Train Show
The Model Railroad Club, Union
December 6-7 and 13-14
Every hour, a 15-minute performance runs the trains to a professionally narrated script. See how the track is hand-laid, how mountains and scenery are created, and ask about the engineering that goes into the club’s bi-level corkscrew loop.
Train and Winter Show 2025
NY Society of Model Engineers, Carlstadt
December 6-7 and 13-14
The New York Society of Model Engineers opens its doors to show off O-scale and HO layouts, with steam and diesel engines, Thomas and friends, freight and passenger trains, and working trolleys.
Dickens Village
Ricalton Square, Maplewood
December 6, 13, 20
The downtown turns into the cutest representation of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” complete with mini houses adorned with fireplaces, stockings and antique toys. Santa arrives at 1 pm on December 6 with the help of the Maplewood Fire Department, and stays for visits during the three weekends. There will be a tree lighting at 4 pm. Then, on each day, check out all decorated houses, make a resy for Breakfast with Santa, take a horse and wagon ride, visit the petting farm, listen to the Swing Town’s holiday concert and holiday readings.
Holiday Spectacular Christmas & Train Display
InfoAge Science and History Museums, Wall Twp.
December 6-7, 13-14, 20-21
Admission to the Garden State Central Model Railroad Club’s train show includes access to all of the museums on site.
Main Street Pops Artisan Market Holiday Market
Monroe Plaza, Hoboken
December 7, 14 and 21
More than 70 local artisans will be at each market, so you can find one-of-a-kind treasures, from handcrafted jewelry and home decor to artisanal foods and sweet treats. There will also be holiday music, a Jingle Jam Community Concert, the Sleigh Bell Lounge, a holiday inflatables village, a bouncy house, singing Mrs. Claus, and selfies with roving holiday characters.
Holidays at HenVille: Shopping Village
MudHen Brewing Company, Wildwood
Sundays, December 7, 14, 21
Browse vendors in the parking lot while enjoying hot cocoa, s’mores stations, caricatures, face painting, and live music in the Biergarten. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on-site for photos during the December events.
Shadows of the 60s: A Holiday Tribute to Motown
December 7: Levoy Theatre, Millville
December 13: Bell Works, Holmdel
December 31: Stafford Twp. Arts Center, Manahawkin
Listen to the music of The Supremes, Gladys Knight & The Pips, Smokey Robinson, Stevie Wonder and The Temptations as the cover group sings Christmas favorites.
A Christmas Carol
Matthews Theatre, McCarter Theatre Center, Princeton
December 9-28
The holiday tradition returns to the stage with regular and accessible performances:
American Sign Language-interpreted performance, 1 pm Dec. 20
Audio Described and Open Caption Accessibility Performance, 1 pm Dec. 21
Christmas Eve shows, 12 pm and 4 pm, December 24
Relaxed Performance, 1 pm Dec. 28
Fall Planetarium Shows
Longo Planetarium, County College of Morris, Randolph
Select dates, through December 13
There are three shows to choose from: Cosmic Colors takes you on a journey across the entire electromagnetic spectrum; in Messengers of Time and Space, you can get an in-depth look at how large telescopes are mapping the universe and patrolling the sky for supernovas; or take a live tour of the night sky in Starlit Nights. All shows include a tour of the night sky and planets.
LBIF Holiday Market
Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Sciences, Loveladies
Through December 14
Artists, makers and small businesses from across LBI will be selling fine art, ceramics, jewelry, textiles, and handcrafted gifts. Many pieces come from LBIF’s ceramics residents and the Plein Air Plus exhibition. On Small Business Saturday (November 29) there will be special local vendors exclusive to this day only, making it an opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts. There will be live music, food trucks, festive drinks, hot chocolate, and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Bell Works Fresh Holiday Markets
Bell Works, Holmdel
Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, through December 20
There will be a curated collection of 75 handmade artists and makers at this indoor holiday celebration.
Ocean’s Holiday Village
The Shops at The Row, Ocean Casino Resort, Atlantic City
Every Saturday and select Sundays, through December 20
The holiday market will offer gifts and sweet treats from a selection of local businesses.
Christmas Festival at the Morristown Green
Morristown Green, Morristown
Fridays – Sundays, through December 21
The event kicks off with the arrival of Santa and the 100+-year traditional Lighting of the Green. There will also be live entertainment, hot chocolate and cookies, ice sculpture demos, miniature train rides and various holiday-themed activities.
Artist Winter Village
Hinds Plaza, Princeton
Thursday – Sunday, through December 21
Four chalets are set up as festive pop-up shops, run by regional artists who made their own textiles, jewelry, candles, children’s wear, pottery, wood, and more.
Christkindlmarkt
PNC Plaza at SteelStacks, Bethlehem, PA
Select dates, through December 21
Known as Christmas City, this market offers handmade works by artists from around the country, live Christmas music sung by carolers, visits with Old St. Nick, and collectibles from Germany.
The Santa Express and the Santa Starlight Express
Richland Village, Richland
Tuckahoe Village, Tuckahoe
Select dates, through December 21
The Seashore Lines take you on a historic train ride with Santa Claus himself, featuring entertainment and snack service. You can opt to ride The Starlight Express (in your PJs!) at night.
Holiday Bazaar Series 2025
Fridays – Sundays, through December 21: Grand Arcade of Convention Hall, Asbury Park
Sundays, through December 14: Asbury Hotel, Asbury Park
Each location will be packed with crafters selling handcrafted goods and unique holiday gifts. There will be holiday music and entertainment, photos with Santa, food and drinks, craft workshops, kids’ activities, festive décor and photo ops. The inspiration is the Weihnachtsmarkt holiday markets in Germany.
The Polar Express Train Ride
Delaware River Railroad Excursions, Phillipsburg
Select dates, through December 21
As you listen to the music from the motion picture soundtrack, you’ll also hear a reading of the classic story. There will be magical juggling chefs and singing hobos to entertain you until Santa arrives.
Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big Jersey Christmas Show!
George Street Playhouse, New Brunswick
Select dates, through December 21
Scrooge is spending Christmas in Jersey, in this reimagining of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. The traditional ghosts—Past, Present, and Future—bring plenty of Garden State spirit, laughs, and holiday magic.
Holiday Lights Hayride
Norz Hill Farm, Hillsborough
Select dates, through December 21
The festive holiday lights display is seen from the comforts of a tractor-drawn hayride. Check out the animals and pop by Santa’s cornfield office. When you get back to the farmhouse, warm up by the fire with cocoa and s’mores.
Pine Creek Railroad Christmas Train Rides
Pine Creek Railroad, Allaire State Park, Wall Twp.
Select dates, through December 21
Hop on board for a Christmas train ride.
Christmas at Carriage Farm
Flounder Brewing Co., Carriage Farm, Hillsborough
Through December 23
During the season, there will be special holiday releases by Flounder Brewing – like St. Nick Christmas Ale, Naughty St. Nick and Ichabod’s Revenge – and Bellemara Distillery’s Holiday Cocktail Menu featuring the Peppermintini, Cranberry Gin & Tonics, and Chai Espresso Martinis. You can rent a Bellemara winter igloo, get tickets to a radio-show style performance of Die Hard, watch a banjo show by Tony Trischka and his band, or see A Charlie Brown Christmas Live. And Flounder’s annual Kringle Market takes place over four days, with 45+ makers, a brass band, carolers, food trucks, snack vendors, photos with Santa inside the brewhouse, meet-and-greets with Buddy the Elf and The Grinch, Holiday Music in the Barn.
Holidays at Johnson’s Corner Farm
Johnson’s Corner Farm, Medford
Through December 23
Hop on the Christmas Light Show Hayride, which takes you past The Light Show on the Lake, where thousands of lights are synced to music. Pop by the animal farm, decorate Christmas cookies and roast s’mores by the campfire.
DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express
DiDonato Family Fun Center, Hammonton
Select dates, through December 23
Kids can take a train ride through millions of Christmas lights. You’ll stroll through a holiday village, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and visit the toy market. Bowling is included with your ticket.
Santa Claus Special
Woodstown Central Railroad, Woodstown
Select dates, through December 23
Santa will make his way through the restored 1930s train cars. Once you get to South Woodstown Station, there will be fire pits, photos and letters to Santa Claus.
Christmas Wonderland
Maple Leaf Farms, Manalapan
Wednesdays – Sundays, through December 24
Aside from the huge market that has all your Christmas and Hanukkah needs, there are visits with Santa and outdoor train rides; plus, you can get your Christmas tree from a selection that’s grown on the farm.
Santa’s Hideaway Adventure
The Ocean Casino Resort, Atlantic City
Through December 24
Santa’s secret hideaway is located at the end of a virtual elevator adventure, which takes you from the AC Boardwalk to the North Pole. After spending 15 minutes snapping photos with Santa, you can snack on hot chocolate and cookies.
Santa’s Christmas Trains
Strasburg Railroad Museum, Ronks, PA
Select dates, through December 24
There’s no shortage of holiday train rides that travel through Amish Country: there’s brunch aboard Santa’s Paradise Express, a reading of “The Night Before Christmas” inside the first-class cars, and the Santa Claus Limited that has a visit with the big man himself.
Union Square Holiday Market
Union Square, New York City
Through December 24
NYC’s largest Greenmarket transforms for the holiday season, with 150+ vendors selling gifts and goods for the season. The local restaurants, retailers and entertainers join in as well.
Christmas Underwater
Adventure Aquarium, Camden
Through December 24
See underwater lights, spot Scuba Santa and view the World’s Tallest Underwater Christmas Tree while walking across the Shark Bridge and checking out two giant hippos.
Christmas Village
City Hall and LOVE Park, Philadelphia, PA
Select dates, through December 24
You’ll feel like you’re in Germany rather than Philly. Traditional wooden booths are set up with vendors selling holiday gifts, ornaments, jewelry and art. Play around on the Ferris wheel, carousel or kiddie train ride.
Santa Claus Train
Northlandz, Flemington
Select dates, through December
The inside of the mini train museum has a holiday vibe, with snow, presents, lights and Christmas trees filling the displays. Meet Santa when he takes an outdoor train ride with you on the weekends, spreading lots of Christmas cheer.
Pier Village Holiday Events
Pier Village, Long Branch
Select dates, through December
The Jersey Shore gets a touch of the North Pole with Barkfast with Santa and pup photos with Mr. Claus, a gingerbread house making contest for dogs, a Pink Friday Shopping and Food Crawl, and a Christmas tree lighting.
Tinseltown Holiday Experience
Atlantic City
Select dates, through December
Amp up your holiday spirit with a collection of lights displays, tree lightings, the Festival of Trees, the Noyes Holiday Market & Gingerbread Village, the Winter Wonderland Parade on the Boardwalk, and holiday theater shows (like The Nutcracker and Christmas in Concert).
Winterfest
Delaware River Waterfront, Philadelphia, PA
Select dates, through December
At Penn’s Landing there is an NHL-sized ice rink, a Ferris wheel, boardwalk games, fire pits, heated cabins, and a giant Christmas tree.
Holidays on the Hill
Chestnut Hill, PA
Through December 25
This neighborhood in Philly gets festive with The Holiday Garden Railway at Morris Arboretum & Gardens, Stag & Doe shopping nights, the annual Circle of Trees celebration at the Woodmere Art Museum, Small Business Saturday promos, Chestnut Hill Community Association’s Annual Holiday Parade, and the association’s Holiday House Tour.
Night of Lights Light Show Extravaganza
Creamy Acres Farm, Mullica Hill
Select dates, through December 27
The 100-acre dairy farm becomes a Christmas wonderland with sparkling light displays and musical dancing tree light shows that you view from inside your car. After the 1.5-mile drive, stroll through the indoor walk-thru where you’ll see a life-sized snowglobe, a narrated Nativity scene and a singing Christmas tree before posing with Santa.
Old-Fashioned Christmas on the Farm & Walk-Through Light Show
Allaire Community Farm, Wall Twp.
Fridays – Sundays, through December 28
Stroll through the beautifully lit 25-acre farm, visit a festive 100-year-old barn-turned-Christmas market, watch classic holiday movies, marvel at the model train exhibit, and bring the kids to the new interactive game area. There are yuletide wagon rides and the return of the Polar Express Train, featuring dazzling light tunnels and a breathtaking 45-foot Santa.
NY Waterway’s Winter Waterway Holiday Market
Midtown Terminal Ferry, NYC
Fridays – Sundays, through December 28
There will be more than a dozen food vendors, shopping at the indoor market, crafts, special activities for kids and visits with Santa (on select dates).
Winter WonderLights
Middlesex County Fairgrounds, East Brunswick
Through December 28
Drive through 1.5 million animated lights that are synchronized to music from a local radio station. There are sparkling tunnels, 20-foot Christmas trees, towering 30-foot trees; winter wonderland scenes depicting Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Diwali; and a tribute to first responders and military heroes.
Santa Express
Black River and Western Railroad, Flemington
Select dates, through December 28
When your kid boards the train, they’ll get a souvenir golden ticket before they meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. At the station stop in Ringoes, have a cookie and hot cocoa before checking out the model train displays.
Mariah Carey’s Holiday Bar
Untitled Hotel, New York City
Select dates, through December 28
Fans of the self-described Queen of Christmas can write a letter to Mariah, sing along to her holiday hits, sip on Black Irish cocktails and take a photo with an album backdrop.
Merry Mile of Lights
A. Casola Farms, Holmdel
Wednesdays – Sundays, through December 28
The mile-long drive-through holiday trail has millions of dazzling lights and festive displays that you can see from your car. Any night, you can get a free hot chocolate from the Winter Wonderland Super Store. Plus, Friday to Sunday, trail riders also get free pictures with Santa. There will be free kids crafts, too.
Barnyard Under the Stars
Brookhollow’s Barnyard, Boonton
Fridays – Saturdays, through December 28
Start with a 5-minute Holiday Thomas the Train Ride, then snap a holiday photo at the barnyard. You’ll also meet goofy goats, silly sheep and crazy cows who love to be fed snacks.
Santa’s Steam Ride Train Ride
New Hope Railroad, New Hope
Select dates, through December 28
The restored passenger trains (which date back to the first half of the 20th century) are warm and cozy and decorated for the season. Cookies will be served on board, live music will play, and everyone will sing along to holiday tunes.
Holiday Square Market
Magnolia Landing, Jersey City
Wednesdays – Sundays, through December 28
This New York City-style holiday market will have decorations, festive stalls and a curated lineup of food and merchant vendors.
Holiday Model Train Show
Barron Arts Center, Woodbridge
Through December 30 (closed December 24-25)
Mike Gelesky designed and set up the entire display with lots of holiday cheer to celebrate the display’s 35th year.
Santa’s North Pole Express Train Ride
New Hope Railroad, New Hope
Select dates, through December 30
The North Pole Express is pulled by one of the diesel locomotives. Kids will get cookies, listen to music and mail their letters to Santa.
Santa’s Winter Wonderland
Watermark, 78 South St. at Pier 15, New York
Through December 30
The whimsical waterfront holiday installation has dining, entertainment, Christmas trees, games, activities, heated glasshouses and lights displays, all with breathtaking views of NYC.
Winter Wonderland Illuminated Walking Trail
Indian Acres Tree Farm, Medford
Select dates, through December 30
Stroll through the woods and pass by snowmen and trees made with upcycled materials from the farm. You’ll see a fairy garden and a secret gnome village. Waddle past Penguin Igloo Town or fly by Birdhouse Row. There will be a tunnel of lights that snows down on you.
Orchard of Lights
Demarest Farms, Hillsdale
Select dates, through December 30
Take a ride through 32 acres of holiday lights and then warm up by the fire pit with hot cocoa. There’s a farm market, pictures with Santa, make your own s’mores, and Santa’s singing reindeer.
The Village at Anne Ellen
Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm, Manalapan
Select dates, through December 30
A hayride brings you to a village of 400,000 lights. Among the new attractions are an ice castle filled with penguins, and a Bear Workshop to make your own teddy bear. Old faves include the life-sized gingerbread house and a post office where you can send letters to Santa.
The Polar Express Train Ride
Whippany Railway Museum, Whippany
Select dates, through December 30
After you give your golden ticket to the conductor, you’ll be treated to storytime. After Santa meets your family, there will be caroling and holiday activities on board.
Hometown Pride: The Power of Sports in Middlesex County
Cornelius Low House Museum, Piscataway
Select dates through December 31
Middlesex County’s sports connections include the first-ever college football game played between Rutgers University and Princeton University; professional athletes and Olympians, Paralympians, and Special Olympians. You will see high school trophies from the 1930s to the present, NFL golden footballs for pro athletes, balls from the highest-scoring high school athletes, uniforms from the 1930s to the present, and more.
Christmas Express
Allaire State Park, Wall Twp.
Select dates, through December 31
The New Jersey Museum of Transportation’s Pine Creek Railroad lets you board a train with Santa Claus during the day or at night.
Christmas House
Freehold Raceway Mall, Freehold Twp.
Through December 31
Walk through a series of 10 rooms set up like movie scenes, with themes like the North Pole Movie Theater, the Christmas Eve Room, the Elf Command Center, the Harry Potter Rom, Santa’s Workshop and The Nightmare Before Christmas Room. There will be trivia and lots of photo ops.
Santa’s Secret Immersive Holiday Experience
Columbus Circle, New York City
Select dates, through December 31
To get to this speakeasy, you have to follow a winding path through eight immersive holiday installations – from gingerbread girls to rugged lumberjacks to living snowglobes. When you arrive, there will be Christmas-themed cocktails, fine dining, a live band, and a variety show performance.
Astra Lumina: An Enchanted Night Walk Amongst the Stars
Abington Art Center, Jenkintown, PA
Select dates, through December 31
The hour-long, outdoor experience uses nature and technology to tell the story of visiting stars descending to Earth before rising again to the night sky; it’s a one-mile pathway of cosmic light and sound.
Christmas Fantasy With Lights
Storybook Land, Egg Harbor Twp.
Select dates, through December 31
Every night at dusk, Santa will wave his magic wand and light up the theme park. You can meet him after, or take Santa’s Fantasy Flight.
Christmas Train Village
Duggan Hall, Spring Lake
Wednesdays – Sundays, through December 31
The Duggan Building exhibits a re-creation of the beautiful town of Spring Lake via a train village.
Holiday Lights Harbor Lights Cruises
Pier 83, New York City
Through December 31
Holiday Harbor Lights Cruises offer a narrated view of the NYC skyline and the Statue of Liberty. A special cruise on NYE includes a three-course dinner buffet, live DJ, open bar, views of New York’s fireworks, and a Champagne toast at midnight.
Holidays at Fonthill Castle
Mercer Museum & Fonthill Castle, Doylestown, PA
Select dates, through December 31
This Bucks County tradition transforms Henry Mercer’s historic home, which you can view during a holiday tour, on special Meander Days, or through a magical evening tour.
Miracle Bar
Miracle on Centre at Cowan’s Public, 229 Centre St., Nutley
Miracle on Mercer at Franklin Social, 292 Barrow St., Jersey City
Miracle on George Street at Catherine Lombardi’s, 3 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick
Miracle on Bloomfield at The Parkside Social, 706 Bloomfield Ave., Verona
Miracle at The Bistro, Inside iPlay America, 108 Schanck Rd., Freehold
Miracle at Avenue, Avenue, Pier Village, 23 Ocean Ave. N., Long Branch
Miracle at Parkside Tavern, Parkside Tavern, 9 Speedwell Ave., Morristown
Through December 31
While the decor is Instaworthy on its own, the true star of the show is the cocktail menu at each location. Noteworthy drinks at Miracle locations include the Christmapolitan, a twist on the classic made with vodka, elderflower, dry vermouth, spiced cranberry sauce, rosemary, lime and absinthe mist; and for those who have been naughty, there’s the Hot Buttered Rum, served hot. Other deliciously merry cocktails such as Carol Barrell, Snowball Old Fashioned, Koala Kooler and Christmas Cricket are sold in mugs and glasses you can purchase for your at-home Christmas parties.
The Miracle on South 13th Street Holiday Light Display
1600 Block of S. 13th St., Philadelphia, PA
Through January 1
Every holiday season, a group of neighbors go all-out with their Christmas decorations, offering a massive lights display that you can view while walking through the neighborhood.
Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market
Dilworth Park, Philadelphia, PA
Through January 1 (closed Dec. 25)
More than 50 local artisans, designers, crafters and jewelers will be set up inside picturesque white wooden booths, adorned with the glow of Moravian stars.
Marlin Christmas Wonderland
1326 Laurel Avenue in Sea Girt
Through January
This year’s over-the-top Christmas display uses projection mapping and a light show to feature scenes from various Christmas movies. Tune your radio to 88.9 FM to hear synchronized music to the lights.
Christmas Tram Tours
Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, Shawnee on Delaware, PA
Select dates, through January 3
Board their version of the Polar Express, which takes you along a lighted trail to Christmas Island, where holiday fun includes caroling, cute scenes, photo ops and a visit to Santa’s Workshop.
Holiday Bricktacular
LEGOLAND New York Resort, Goshen, NY
Select dates, through January 3
There will be a tree lighting with LEGO Santa, brick-building activities and lots of holiday lights. New this year is Holiday Headquarters in LEGO City, plus decorated Brick Street, Bricktopia, LEGO Ninjago World and MiniLand.
Kringle Cove
Whitechapel Projects, Long Branch
Through January 3
Shop all weekend from different vendors set up each day at The Long Branch Holiday Bazaar. There will be a live DJ, holiday craft workshops and face painting for kids. Kringle Cove will have each room decorated so that you feel like you’re in a holiday movie. Make your own s’mores or order pizza. There will be pet photos with Santa on Saturday. You can make a reservation for Very Merry Brunchmas or the Christmas Carol Cocktail Experience.
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, NY
Select dates, through January 3
This impressive neighborhood is lit up with millions of lights, inflatables, displays and activations. Walk along or take a bus tour through the neighborhood.
Illumination
Coca-Cola Park, Allentown, PA
Select dates, through January 3
Lehigh Valley shines bright with 1.5 million lights synchronized to music. But that’s not all: there are curling lanes, Santa’s Polar Express, hayrides with Mrs. Claus, a carousel, Nutcracker Suites that include a holiday buffet, and igloos.
Winter Light Spectacular
Lehigh Valley Zoo, Schnecksville, PA
Select dates, through January 3
This event has 1.2 million sparkling lights and displays placed throughout the zoo. Visitors will find classic holiday scenes, multiple fire pits, hot chocolate and s’mores, performances by different princesses, and photos with Santa.
Koziar’s Christmas Village
Koziar’s Farm, Bernville, PA
Select dates, through January 3
There are more than a million lights that illuminate the property, lining everything from the lake to the barns to the walkways. Walk around at your own pace to see the international Christmas displays, train sets and festive gift shops.
Holiday Lights
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, West Orange
Select dates, through January 3
Take a stroll through the zoo at night, which will be lit up by thousands of sparkling lights, plus 50 winter and animal characters. There will be a carousel, touch tank, viewings inside the reptile house, a farm, a pony track, a train and face painting – in addition to meet-and-greets with Santa, ice carving demonstrations, an appearance by the holiday princesses, and photo ops with superheroes and the Grinch. Make an evening of it and rent out an igloo in the picnic area, where you can sit inside a heated tent and have hot chocolate, s’mores and cookies.
Skylands Stadium Light Show & Christmas Village
Skylands Stadium, Augusta
Select dates, through January 3
See more than 2 million lights in this drive-thru. In the Christmas Village, take a family photo and stop by the Hot Chocolate Bar and Winter Beer Garden.
Magic of Lights
PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel
Through January 3
This drive-thru has more than a mile of lights displays. About halfway through your drive, park at the Holiday Village, where you will see Santa, go ice skating, sit down for an outdoor holiday movie, and do arts and crafts.
LumiNature
Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia, PA
Select dates, through January 3
There will be light tunnels, sculptures, Christmas trees and nature-themed displays throughout the zoo. You can meet Santa and watch performances.
U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland
Holland Ridge Farms, Cream Ridge
Through January 4
The walk-through event has more than 50,000 illuminated tulips lighting up the flower fields, a light show from the windmill; illuminated pony rides on the weekends; interactive LED seesaws, swings, spinners and slides; photo ops with Santa inside his workshop; character meet-and-greets with Olaf, Elsa and The Grinch; magical snow flurry stations; “snowball fights” inside a giant igloo snowball pit; and then a special drone show December 18 to 20.
Bergen County’s Winter Wonderland
Van Saun County Park, Paramus
Through January 4
Come for ice skating, carnival games, ice carving and a chance to take pictures with Santa at the North Pole. Tickets give you access to the zoo, carousel and train.
Newark Winter Village
Mulberry Commons Park, Newark
Select dates, through January 4
The open-air festival in the downtown offers ice skating, go karts, a marketplace, private heated pods and igloos.
GLOW: Light Show
217 Berlin-Cross Keys Rd., Washington Twp.
Through January 4
The drive-thru experience has 2 million lights over the course of one mile. The displays are synched to music that you broadcast through your car radio. This year’s theme is Tinsel Turnpike, paying homage to all things Jersey.
Santa’s Pajama Party
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Santa’s Pajama Party – Fridays – Saturdays, through December 20
Holiday Activities: through January 4
Kids should wear their cozy, festive PJs to meet Santa. They’ll decorate cookies and ornaments, view the night sky through telescopes, and see special performances from Imagine Circus. Other themed activities include the sock skating rink under holiday lights; an hourly “snowball” fight; up-close moments with a live penguin, baby kangaroo and lemur; the Gingerbread Express mini train ride for kids; a demo making peppermint ice cream using liquid nitrogen; and laser shows inside the planetarium.
Grinch’s Grotto
Cucina Calandra, Fairfield
Through January 4
Your heart will grow three sizes during lunch, happy hour or dinner when you come to this Grinch-themed pop-up. Specialty cocktails will be made with flavors like cranberry, cinnamon and peppermint.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Radio City Music Hall, New York City
Select dates, through January 4
This New York City holiday classic starring the Radio City Rockettes – with their infamous kickline —features The Parade of the Wooden Soldiers and a Living Nativity.
Big Apple Circus
Lincoln Center, New York, NY
Through January 4
The beloved circus acts return for 7 weeks, with acrobatics, high-flying stunts and comedic action.
Hersheypark Christmas Candylane
Hershey Park, Hershey, PA
Through January 4
Chocolate lovers can enjoy their favorite rides, visit with Santa and his nine reindeer, meet Hershey characters dressed in their holiday best, and see more than 5 million sparkling lights.
A Very Furry Christmas Celebration
Sesame Place, Langhorne, PA
Through January 4
Santa’s Grand Illumination kicks off the holiday season, which includes a Hanukkah celebration, Santa’s ‘Twas the Night Celebration on Christmas Eve, a Kwanzaa celebration, and New Year’s Eve fireworks.
Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
Bronx Zoo, Bronx, NY
Select dates, through January 4
Millions of lights twinkle and hundreds of illuminated animals sparkle as you walk through six lantern trails. The Holiday Train and Enchanted Sea return, while new this year are snow tube slides, an ice throne and virtual snowball throwing.
Lightscape
Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Brooklyn, NY
Through January 4
For this year’s fifth installation, the glittering winter trail will take you to an enchanted forest filled with art, music and special attractions.
Snowland Celebration
Great Wolf Lodge, Scotrun, PA
Through January 4
Known mostly for its indoor and outdoor water parks, Snowland takes the resort’s activities to a new level with visits with Santa, the Frosty Fest Family Dance Party, Snowland bingo and trivia, competition games, a themed scavenger hunt, and ‘Twas the Night Before Snowland Yoga Tails.
Shine Bright at Hudson Yards Presented by Wells Fargo
Hudson Yards, New York City
Through January 5
More than 2 million twinkling lights (that’s 115 miles!) and 725 evergreen trees set the stage for ice skating, photos with Santa, holiday shopping – and even Santa’s Secret Speakeasy for adults, plus a special menorah lighting.
Holiday Light Show
Shady Brook Farm, Yardley, PA
Through January 5
The farm will be outfitted with 4 million dazzling lights, which you’ll see as you drive through the pathways or aboard the open-air wagon. Plan some time to see Santa’s Village, where there’s a Candy Cane Lane lights walk-thru, fire pits, and a gift shop.
Light Show on the Lake
Historic Smithville, Galloway
Through January 5
More than 120 Christmas trees decorated with over 50,000 Christmas lights magically float when darkness falls: a show of lights and music is played across Lake Meone.
Frostland Village
23 Euclid Ave., Pitman
Through first week of January
The winner of an episode of 2024’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight” was chosen for its yard full of restored and hand-painted animatronics, a 35-foot high tree made entirely of blow molds, a full bakery scene, and a hand-built treehouse scene.
Pillsbury Let It Dough Suite
Club Wyndham Midtown 45, New York City
Through January 6
Designed to be a holiday baking escape, you can rent this suite for two or three nights, and be treated to all the Pillsbury cinnamon rolls and ready-to-bake cookies you’d like. The room itself features icing-draped walls, a cinnamon roll–inspired bedroom, frosted windows, and the scent of freshly baked cookies throughout. You can also call the Cookie Concierge to have additional baking supplies delivered on demand.
Fanwood’s Famous Christmas Houses
83 and 87 Paterson Rd., Fanwood
Through January 8
Every year, Gregory Roser creates a holiday display with 30,000 sparkling lights. Santa will make a special visit on Dec. 6. Monetary donations are accepted on site to support the New Jersey Institute for Disabilities.
Disney’s Frozen
Paper Mill Playhouse, Millburn
Through January 11
The beloved movie starring Elsa, Anna and Olaf comes to the main stage. Certain dates will accommodate those needing ASL interpretation, open captioning and autism sensitivities.
Festival of Trees
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
Wednesdays – Sundays, through January 11
Seventeen trees and mantels will be decorated and displayed throughout the museum, created by local community groups. Themes include All Aboard to Movie Magic; Family Game Night; A Tribute to Pollinators; and Fruit of the Holiday Spirit.
Let It Glow
Bergen County Zoo, Paramus
Thursdays-Sundays, through January 11
As you walk through the zoo or ride on the train, you’ll see 30 larger-than-life scenes decorated with animal-themed lanterns.
Holidig Drive-Thru Holiday Light Show
Diggerland, West Berlin
Select dates, through January 11
Marvel at the lights, holiday displays and tunnels as you drive along 1.25 miles inside America’s only construction-based theme and water parks.
Holiday Train Show
New York Botanical Garden, Bronx, NY
Through January 11
Either during the day or on select Holiday Train Nights, catch model trains as they zip through a display of almost 200 replicas of New York landmarks, each re-created from natural materials such as birch bark, pinecones, palm fronds and cinnamon sticks.
A Longwood Christmas
Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, PA
Through January 11
Stroll through floating floral designs, marvel at festive trees and step into an extravagant floral shop. Outside, take in stunning light displays and treehouses. There are a half-million lights across hundreds of acres, plus fountain shows.
Vintner Wonderland
Renault Winery & Resort, Egg Harbor City
Select dates, through January 19
The winery grounds are open to families for ice skating, a holiday market, fire pits and live music. Special events include the Festival of Trees, live music at the rink, Stories with Santa, Cookies & Cocktails and an hors d’oeuvres masterclass.
Antique Toy Train Show
The Museum of American History, Deptford
Thursday to Sunday, through February 1
See toy trains from the 1930s, ‘40s and ‘50s, including Lionel, Marx and American Flyer engines. Plasticville buildings from the 1950s will give the platforms a vintage holiday appearance.
Winter at Dilworth Park
Dilworth Park, Philadelphia, PA
Select dates, through February
The heart of Center City comes alive with outdoor ice skating, a topiary garden, the Wintergarden, a chalet-style cabin, charming fire pits, the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market, and Breakfast with Santa.
The Rink at Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center, NYC
Through March
The twinkling lights on the magnificent Christmas tree will be lit from December 3 to January 10. View its beauty while you ice skate or chill in a rinkside chalet. See the beautiful golden angel statues in the courtyard, and walk down the block to Saks Fifth Avenue for its holiday lights show on the building’s façade, which returns this season. The twinkling lights on the magnificent Christmas tree will be lit starting December 3. This year, with a ticket to Top of the Rock, you can meet Santa, have a private viewing area of the tree, and then rent a private chalet overlooking the skating rink. December 14 is Tuba Christmas, where musicians from around the country perform.
Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
Bryant Park, New York City
Through March
This Manhattan park is home to the largest free-admission ice skating rink in NYC. Relax rinkside at The Lodge while taking in the splendor of the giant Christmas tree. Shop more than 180 vendors selling gifts from around the world. And check out the bumper cars on ice.
Outdoor Winter Wonderland
Middletown Sports Camp, Middletown
Through March 8
This will be the place to skate, sip and shop during the holiday season, with its new winter festival that includes festive music, lights and décor; vendors; fire pits; igloos; and the center of it all, the outdoor ice skating rink.
Springsteen in Long Branch: An exhibition telling the story of Born to Run
Long Branch Arts & Cultural Center, Long Branch
Ongoing through 2026
Fifty years ago, Bruce Springsteen wrote the “Born to Run” album in West End, Long Branch. A new exhibit showcases his life at the Jersey Shore through photos, posters, album promo materials and mementos – like his green drum set from his first band, and a replica of the guitar used on the album cover.
SUE The T. Rex Experience
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Through May 25, 2026
The world’s most complete, most well-preserved T. rex skeleton is making a stop at LSC so you can see her bones, hear her growl and smell her breath (seriously!). There will be fossils on display, projection mapping of other prehistoric creatures, and a life-sized fleshed-out replica to show what the creature’s life was like in the Cretaceous era.
Got questions about this weekend’s events?
We pulled together a quick FAQ to help.
Q: Do I need tickets or reservations?
A: Some of the bigger attractions (musicals, outdoor light shows, Santa trains) do require tickets, and popular times can sell out. It’s important to check the event link in our guide for details, times, date, pricing, availability and weather before you head out.
Q: Does the list include both indoor and outdoor events?
A: You’ll find a mix of indoor shows, markets, and museums, along with outdoor winter light displays and festivals.
Q: What are some of the best things to do in New Jersey this weekend (December 5-7, 2025)?
A: This weekend (December 5-7, 2025) features family-friendly things to do across New Jersey and in NY and PA. Highlights include the Jersey Nutcracker at Kean University in Union., the Ship Bottom Annual Christmas Parade, a Victorian House Tour in Ocean Grove, the Holiday Hustle in Ridgefield Park, Winter in the Pines at Batsto Village in Hammonton and Winter Wonderland Before Time at Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University.
Q: What parts of New Jersey do these events cover?
A: We include family events happening throughout North, Central, and South Jersey, plus more events in New York and Pennsylvania.
Q: Where can I find more events near me?
A: This weekend’s roundup is a comprehensive list, but you can also browse more upcoming events on our calendar.
Q: How can I stay updated on more things to do in New Jersey?
A: Sign up for our newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
Read More:
The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Attractions in NJ, NY and PA
Where to See Holiday Lights in New Jersey
Christmas Markets In and Around New Jersey
Your Guide to Holiday Shows in New Jersey
