On November 24, families throughout the Garden State will gather for a day of comfort food and holiday fun. But who says the party has to end come Black Friday? Keep the family fun going with these post-Thanksgiving activities.
1. Lace Up Your Skates
Dust off your skates or rent a pair and spend the day on the rink with the kids. Whether your family is perfecting their triple axels or just trying to stay on their toes, there are countless ice rinks throughout the Garden State from which to choose.
2. Explore the Great Outdoors
Take advantage of the beautiful autumn weather by bundling up and hitting the trails at one of the state’s numerous parks and forests. Feeling creative? Have the kids collect branches and pinecones along the way—save their findings and, on a rainy day, pull out some art supplies and get crafting!
3. Play a Game of Touch Football
Work off that extra slice of pumpkin pie (or make room for another helping of leftovers) by rounding up your all-stars for a friendly game of backyard football. Don’t have enough room for the whole team on your block? Take the fun to a nearby park.
4. Warm Up by the Fire
On a chilly November day, there’s nothing better than cozying up to an outdoor campfire! Build a fire, lay down a blanket and gather around the warm fire with mugs of hot cocoa and s’mores supplies. Don’t have the space for a backyard bonfire? Head on over to the nearest park—just be sure to check if you need a recreational campfire permit beforehand.
5. Give Back
You constantly talk about how you want the kids to start giving back, so what better time to start than the day after Thanksgiving? Check out our list of family friendly volunteering opportunities to help the kids realize how important it is to help others (and to realize how lucky they are).
6. Watch a Holiday Light Show
Take a drive around town and check out residential light shows. Your family will love seeing houses and streets decked out in holiday cheer. If you’re looking for a bigger display, head to one of these free light shows around the state.
7. Escape Room
After you’ve had a good nap, why not lock yourself in a room with your family members? If your kids love a good mystery, you’ll want to bring them to an escape room. Use hidden keys, word puzzles and secret codes to unlock compartments, reveal hidden rooms and escape before time runs out.
8. Enjoy a Train Show
The Garden State Model Railway Club now features two large operating layouts at its Model Railway Show, with multiple engines running at all times, including steam and diesel locomotives, Thomas & Friends, freight and passenger trains. A separate hands-on layout for children allows them to control their first train. There is also a block layout for toddlers, with plenty of chairs for moms and dads to take a break and watch their little ones play.