This time of year is expensive, and going out to celebrate really adds up. Cue these events and activities throughout the New Jersey area that have no admission fee. Read on and make a plan.
Light Up the Season. Kick off the holidays with a Christmas tree lighting in early December, or a menorah lighting toward the end of the month.
Take in the Lights & Decorations. Pack up the car with snacks for a drive around your neighborhood to see light shows synchronized to music and beautifully decorated houses with inflatables.
Channel Your Inner Scrooge. Several towns around NJ hold Dickens Fest to celebrate “A Christmas Carol” with odes to the Victorian era.
Line the Streets With Holiday Cheer. We love a good parade, and watching Santa roll by on a firetruck always brings extra magic.
Be Festive at a Festival. There are lots of bazaars, art markets, winter wonderlands and Festivals of Trees where you can experience Christmas magic, both indoors and outdoors.
Stay on Track. Some holiday train shows, with beautiful displays of villages and towns decorated for the holidays in mini form, offer free admission.
Shop Til You Drop. This one isn’t free if you buy presents of course, but if you like to window shop or see what creative vendors have to offer, walking around a market or craft fair has extra spirit this time of year.
Visit a Cute Downtown. Walking down Main Streets is extra charming this time of year. Towns like Smithville, Atlantic City, Morristown, Maplewood, Haddon Twp., Ridgewood, Collingswood, Princeton, Cape May and The Wildwoods go all-out with their decorations.
Light the Kinara. There are Kwanzaa festivals taking place at the end of the month that focus on the seven principles of the holiday through educational lectures, cultural performances, African music and dance, and candle ceremonies.
Take the Plunge. If you can brave the cold water and air, sign up for a Polar Plunge on January 1 or later. Most plungers have to fundraise for a great cause, but you can watch for free from the shoreline.
Check out our Free Things to Do In December mega list for more events and activities that won’t cost you much!
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Read More:
The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Attractions in NJ, NY and PA