It’s time to pack your weekend with holiday events as December gets underway. Check out all the holiday lights, see a performance of “The Nutcracker” or take a drive to PA for an incredible winter wonderland.
WEEKEND
Gnome Roam Scavenger Hunt
Downtown West Orange
Through Sunday
Look for holiday gnomes hidden in participating businesses and shops in the downtown area. If you find all the gnomes you will be entered to win one of three $100 Visa Gift Cards. Winners will be announced at the December 5 Township Council meeting.
Holiday Open House
New Jersey Botanical Garden, Ringwood
Through Sunday
Events range from an open house of The Manor to daytime and group tours, to an evening holiday reception.
Greater Wildwood Jaycees Parade and Christmas in the Plaza Festival
Wildwood
Friday – Saturday
Enjoy free carnival rides, music and vendors on Friday, along with the Christmas parade and the tree lighting; on Saturday there will be live music by the John Walter Band and storytime with Mrs. Claus.
Christmas Walk
Bay Head
Friday – Saturday
On Friday, businesses and shops will hold their own open houses; you can listen to the bell choir by The Jubilee Bells, and the Holiday Brass Band will perform before and after the town tree lighting. Scavenger hunt details will be announced. On Saturday, kids can make crafts at Santa’s Workshop (aka the Bay Head Fire House) and the family can take a ride on Santa’s Trolley, which will stop at the Loveland House for a Victorian Christmas.
Winter Wonderland
Kuser Park, Hamilton Twp.
Friday – Saturday
Spend time taking photos with Santa and Grinchy, checking out the animals at the petting zoo, riding on Santa’s Mini Express, taking the Hamilton’s Express wagon ride, making reindeer food and getting your face painted. Crafter’s Candy Cane Lane features various vendors. There will be a dozen food trucks on site.
Monster High Live
CURE Insurance Arena, Trenton
Friday – Sunday
Clawdeen Wolf, Draculaura and Frankie Stein get ready for the school’s annual Monster Ball.
Winter Village
Red Mill Museum Village, Clinton
Friday – Sunday
The biggest attraction is the Festival of Trees, featuring Christmas trees designed and decorated by community members, local businesses and organizations. You will also get access to the museum.
German Christmas Market of New Jersey
Sussex County Fairgrounds, Augusta
Friday – Sunday
Completely run by volunteers, this market is a huge gathering of people who love shopping, eating and being with friends. There are dozens of vendors, crafters, food trucks and food carts, a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus, and other entertainment.
Naughty or Knights: A Renaissance Christmas
The Shoppes at Dragon Village, Bridgeton
Saturday – Sunday
This celebration combines Christmas with a Renaissance Faire, including Swords and Stories, live jousting, a performance by the Mystic Realms Theater Group, blacksmith demos, a fire performance and The Misfits of Fortune.
Hope Christmas Craft Market
Saturday – Sunday
Hope Elementary School, Hope Grange, Community Center, St. John Methodist Church, St. Luke and St. Mary Episcopal Church, Hope Fire Department; Hope, NJ
Explore six buildings full of holiday cheer, featuring items made by crafters! Santa will be hanging out in the Community Center. There is a free shuttle bus that goes to every building.
Stomp
NJPAC, Newark
Saturday – Sunday
Brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters and more fill the stage with energizing beats at this unique percussion show.
Drive Through The Christmas Story
Sayre Woods Bible Church, Old Bridge
Saturday – Sunday
Watch the story of the birth of Jesus as you drive through the church’s parking lot.
Winterfest
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Fairgrounds, Hammonton
Saturday – Sunday
The Rotary Club of Hammonton presents a holiday festival with food, snacks, kids’ activities, photo ops with Santa, games, face painting, crafts, a firepit for s’mores, and a horse and carriage ride.
The Holiday Musical That Goes Wrong
Hunterdon Central Regional High School, Flemington
Saturday – Sunday
What could possibly go wrong when the production of the timeless new holiday musical, “A December Celebration,” makes an unexpected early debut? Anything and everything! You watch as the cast and crew ensure that the show goes on – it’s a show within a holiday show.
Essex County Holiday House Tour
Throughout Essex County
Saturday – Sunday
Eleven historic sites include Kip’s Castle Park in Verona, Crane Homestead in West Caldwell, The Gypsy Farmhouse in Cedar Grove, and Kingsland Manor in Nutley. You can visit each location at your own pace, but some do have separate admission fees.
Noyes Holiday Market and Gingerbread Village
Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University, Atlantic City
Saturday – Sunday
There will be live music from pianist Denis Brousse, family photos with Santa, craft activities for all ages, local food and drink vendors, shopping from local artists and vendors, and a gingerbread house contest.
FRIDAY
Downtown for the Holidays
Broad Street and East Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood
The streets will be filled with holiday spirit, as Santa strolls around town in his golf cart, Nutcrackers dance in store windows and a trackless train rolls by. Stick around for the tree lighting.
Candy Cane Hunt
Manasquan
Kids ages 2-8 years old can join the Holiday Scavenger Hunt through the Shore town. After a short ceremony, candy canes will be handed out.
Hometown Holiday
Downtown Washington Borough
The family-friendly evening includes the annual tree lighting, Santa and Mrs. Claus arriving on the fire truck, music by DJ Rupe, free horse and carriage rides (weather permitting), vendors, selfies with Santa, a gift for every child, a Victorian photo booth, a strolling brass band, The Warren County Singers, seasonal characters, free kids crafts with Dove Environmental Education. Add your unique ornament to the town tree with the new community ornament-making activity.
Christmas Party
American Hotel, Freehold Borough
The Eddie Testa Band will perform first, followed by the comedy of Mike Marino, and then music from DJ Joe D.
Woodstown by Candlelight
Woodstown
During this holiday celebration, you’ll be transported to a Revolutionary-era Christmas. The event is centered around home tours of historic homes in Woodstown but includes a Christmas Market with over 30 vendors, photos with Santa, a live Nativity, specials at local restaurants and shops and a Christmas Village. You can take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage, or opt for a train ride aboard Woodstown Central Railroad.
Winter Kickoff Campfire
Fairview Farm Wildlife Preserve, Gladstone
Astronomers from Raritan Valley Community College will bring a big telescope so you can observe the starry winter sky. You will roast marshmallows, enjoy warm glogg (a traditional Scandinavian winter drink), and play glow-in-the-dark yard games. There will be a collection of lightly used outdoor winter gear to swap.
Holiday Greeting Card-Making Workshop
Eclectic Chic Boutique, Montclair
Learn how to create your own unique and personalized holiday greeting cards. You will get all of the supplies you need, including cardstock, paper, stamps, stickers, and more. Each person will make two greeting cards with envelopes. This is part of the Free First Friday series.
Yellow Brick Road: A Tribute to Elton John
The LeVoy Theatre, Millville
Gerald Brann and Yellow Brick Road pay tribute to the music of Elton John. Brann dresses in replica costumes and wears Elton’s trademark outrageous glasses.
Evergreen Wreath-Making Workshop
Plainsboro Preserve, Cranbury
Get into the holiday season by creating a beautiful evergreen wreath for your home.
SATURDAY
Christmas on the Farm
Howell Living History Farm, Hopewell Twp.
Santa is coming to Howell Farm … on a steam tractor! Stop by the visitor center to hear the Jugtown Mountain String Band play inside the barn, and then find a spot around the craft table to recreate a paper Victorian angel ornament, Next, walk up to the barnyard, where families can take selfies in the 1800s sleigh pulled by the horses on snowy days, and visit the blacksmith working in the farm’s forge. The farmhouse will be open for tours, decked out in all its Christmas finery. Stop back at the visitor center for warm drinks, homemade cookies and lunch.
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella: Youth Edition
United Methodist Church of Red Bank, Red Bank
After the performance, the characters will do a meet-and-greet with the audience members.
Snowflake Craft Workshop & Elf Meet-and-Greet
Stage Craft Studio, Scotch Plains
The Holiday Elf, Tinsel, will be visiting from the North Pole and will help kids make snowflake ornaments. There will also be interactive storytelling, coloring pages and activities, themed games, and character photo ops/autographs.
Holiday Open House Evening Reception
New Jersey Botanical Garden, Ringwood
You can walk through Skylands Manor at your own pace, and then enjoy wine and food.
Cat Kid Comic Club: The Musical
Wilkins Theatre, Union
Cat Kid and Molly Pollywog have started an epic club to teach 21 rambunctious baby frogs how to make their own comics. Will the club survive? Will the frogs ever get along? And will creativity finally save the day? All will be answered in this musical based on Dav Pilkey’s book series.
Peppa Pig’s Sing-Along Party
State Theatre New Jersey, New Brunswick
Sing along as Peppa and friends teach you some of their favorite songs. Dance and clap with Peppa’s family, Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe. This will be a 60-minute interactive show.
Brunch with Santa
The Shannon Rose, Ramsey
For an Irish take on Christmas, come for brunch, bagpipers, step dancers, cookie decorating, raffles, ornament making and photos with Santa. Part of the proceeds will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Santa Meet-and-Greet
Columbia Bank, Ridgewood
Santa and his elf will drive from the fire department to Columbia Bank’s branch for pictures with Santa, candy canes and other giveaways.
An Evening of Legends
Pollak Theatre at Monmouth University, West Long Branch
The tribute show features the music of Frankie Valli and the Jersey Boys (featuring Bobby Valli), The Rat Pack via Las Vegas (featuring Russ Martone and Divo Anthony), Neil Diamond (featuring Tommy Lynn), The Young Rascals (featuring The Rockity Academy) and the Blue Hawk House Band.
Ventnor City Twilight Holiday Parade & Festival
Ventnor Avenue, Ventnor City
The parade travels down Ventnor Avenue, starting at New Haven Avenue and ending at Nashville Avenue. There will be marching bands, firetrucks, floats, classic cars and Mr. and Mrs. Claus. And, there will be 20 Jeeps representing the New Jersey Jeep Invasion that will parade through town and then be on display at the end of the parade. After the parade, visit Santa and take part in activities across from the Ventnor Square Theater. There will be a holiday market with food and vendors, pony rides, face painting, a balloon man and train car rides.
Yellow Brick Road: An Elton John Tribute
SOPAC, South Orange
Gerald Brann has an uncanny resemblance to Elton John—complete with his charming gap-toothed smile—and he recreates the rock superstar’s vocals and piano playing to a T, including wearing replica costumes and Elton’s trademark outrageous glasses.
Merchantville Holiday Home Tour
Downtown Merchantville
From charming Colonial to classic Victorian, you will see six different houses before or after shopping and dining in the downtown district.
Haddon Twp. Winterfest Market
Haddon Square, Haddon Twp.
Get into the holiday spirit with vendors, holiday music, fun activities for the kids, a special appearance by Santa, food and a beer garden.
Willows Wonderland
Fosterfields Living Historical Farm, Morristown
Step inside The Willows 1854 mansion. You’ll smell Christmas food cooking from the woodstove demo in the historic kitchen. Tour rooms decorated like how Christmas was celebrated in different decades of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Take a wagon ride around the farm. Get a picture with Santa inside the historic 1915 farmhouse. Finish the afternoon with a craft inside the Visitors Center auditorium.
Wassail Day
Historic Cold Spring Village, Cape May
The paths will come alive with the sights and sounds of the holidays. Go into the buildings for live music, hot beverages, holiday treats and a history lesson. Don’t forget to pop into the Country Store to meet Father Christmas.
Holiday Open House
Point Breeze Discovery Center, Bordentown
The Discovery Center was created by D&R Greenway Land Trust in a renovated historic home that belonged to Joseph Napoleon Bonaparte’s gardener in the early 1800s. The house will be open with exhibits about the history, land and people of Point Breeze, including the Lenape and Bonaparte. During the open house, have mulled cider, hot chocolate and cookies.
Winter Wonderland Sip & Shop
Garden State Distillery, Toms River
While you shop for holiday gifts from local artisans, you can sip on cocktails and beer.
Tenafly Holiday Fair
Peace Plaza, Tenafly
Tenafly Chamber and Tenafly Downtown Committee are putting together their first holiday fair, complete with dozens of local and regional vendors, a community concert featuring local musicians and dancers, hot cocoa from the food trucks, and crafts for the kids. There will be more festive fun inside Tenafly Public Library, including winter-themed crafts and a community puzzle.
The New York Bee Gees
Carteret Performing Arts and Events Center, Carteret
The band includes present or former members of The Alan Parsons Project, Happy Together Tour, Meatloaf, Queen, Blue Oyster Cult, Riot, Herman’s Hermits, Enrique Iglesias, The Rippingtons and more for this tribute show.
Kids Trim-a-Tree Workshop
Sea Ginger, Allentown
Kids will paint their choice of festive ornaments or wintry snowflakes, hand-crafted by Swal’s Statuary. Next, they’ll trim their own live mini cypress tree from Sea Ginger.
Christmas at Casino Arcade
Casino Pier, Seaside Heights
This free kids’ event includes a magic show with Steve Woyce, a holiday concert with Yosi, and meet-and-greets with Buddy the Elf and Jovi.
Yuletide Tour of Homes
Salem
Explore 22 sites, including homes, churches and historic landmarks, along with a range of activities. Highlights include a Christmas parade, tree lighting ceremony, music by the Road Band, pictures with Santa, a live Nativity, strolling carolers, wine tasting, historical re-enactments, a special railroad excursion, and vendor shops.
Holiday Open House and Historic Trolley Tours
West Orange
The annual Holiday Open House takes place at Washington Elementary School; activities begin at 9 am during Breakfast with Santa (and other fun characters) and continue throughout the day with Historic Downtown Trolley Tours, personally guided by Mayor McCartney and township officials. There will be crafts and entertainment, photo opportunities, vendors and other fun.
Mayor McCartney’s Musical Mingle Jingle Tree Lighting
Town Hall, West Orange
Celebrate the holiday season with an evening of holiday-themed activities including live music and dance performances, train rides, a petting zoo, a complimentary Christmas ornament, photo opportunities, and a chance to meet Santa.
Bernardsville Holiday Parade
Bernardsville
Join in on a weekend filled with holiday activities for the whole family.
Santa Experience
Casino Pier Arcade, Seaside Heights
Santa will be hanging out in the arcade to take photos with the family.
Seasonal Traditions
East Jersey Old Town Village, Piscataway
Start the day with holiday music, wagon rides, children’s crafts, and carolers. Later in the afternoon, stick around for storytelling of timeless holiday classics – including “A Christmas Carol” and a radio retelling of “It’s A Wonderful Life.”
Military Comedy Night
Runnmede VFW Post, Runnmede
DeWayne White, U.S. Army (Ret.) and Jose Sarduy, U.S. Air Force Reserve put a comedic spin on life and war.
The Heights Holiday Market
Riverview-Fisk Park, Jersey City
Enjoy 80+ local vendors, a festive food court, a free holiday photo booth, live music by DJ Preskool and DJ Lucy Euclid, seasonal cocktails by Fox & Crow, family photos with Santa, s’mores hot cocoa by Busy Bee Organics, and more.
West Orange Holiday Open House
Washington Elementary School, West Orange
There’s a full day of activities planned: Breakfast with Santa (and other fun characters), Historic Downtown Trolley Tours personally guided by Mayor McCartney and township officials, crafts and entertainment, photo opportunities, a curated selection of vendors, and other fun activities. At night, there will be a tree lighting at town Hall. Don’t miss the live music and dance performances, train rides and petting zoo.
Mozart for Munchkins
Staten Island Children’s Museum, Staten Island, NY
Introduce your kids to classical and jazz music during this interactive family concert, which will feature trumpet, horn and piano performances themed for the holidays.
Walk the Line
Laurita Winery, New Egypt
This Johnny Cash tribute concert is a tradition at Laurita. There will be a matinee and evening show so you have two chances to hear your favorite songs like “Ring of Fire,” “I Walk the Line” and “Christmas Time’s A-Coming.”
Holiday House Tour
Ocean Grove
Wander through Ocean Grove by walking or taking the Jitney so that you can see the beautiful Victorian homes and inns that will be decorated for Christmas. Expect caroling, holiday exhibits and gift boutiques.
Winter Market
Downtown Metuchen
The Winter Market returns this year, offering lots of gifts for those looking for holiday gifts and cheer.
MSDA 5K Reindeer Walk/Run
St. Aloysius Church Gymnasium, Caldwell
Put on your running shoes and reindeer antlers for the USATF Grand Prix, 500-point race. There will be family-friendly pre- and post-race festivities and shopping. You can sign up virtually, too.
Cinderella
United Methodist Church, Red Bank
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella: Youth Edition is presented in arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of The Rodgers & Hammerstein Organization. After each performance, the characters will do a meet-and-greet with the audience members.
Evergreen Kissing Ball Workshop
Plainsboro Preserve, Cranbury
All supplies will be provided to make your own festive, fragrant kissing ball made out of fresh evergreen sprigs.
Winterfest Market
Haddon Square, Haddon Twp.
The family-friendly event will get you all into the holiday spirit with lots of vendors, holiday music, fun activities for the kids, food, a beer garden with seasonal brews and cocktails, and a special appearance by Santa.
Makerspace Saturday
Museum of Early Trades and Crafts, Madison
Kids ages 5 to 12 can build with LEGOs, paint, make jewelry, experiment with engineering and coding robots, and more. Special December activities include making dreidels, or ornaments for the tree, and enjoying hot cocoa.
Santa Run
Asbury Park
An army of Santas will run through the streets to benefit local non-profit Lunch Break. All runners will receive their very own Santa suit with registration along with chip-timed results, a closed course in Asbury Park, and access to after parties all over town featuring Brian Kirk & the Jirks and more.
Hunterdon County Holiday Parade
Main Street, Flemington
The parade will feature the Hunterdon Central Regional High School Marching Red Devils; St. Ann’s Bagpipes; members of businesses, organizations and first-responder organizations; and a special appearance by Ronald McDonald in his official Big Red Shoe Car with Grimace and Hamburglar.
Gingerbread Workshop
Cucina Calandra, Fairfield
You’ll sit down for a brunch buffet, and be given one gingerbread house per family to decorate.
SUNDAY
Holiday Boutique
Rumson Jewish Center at Congregation B’Nai Israel, Rumson
Shop from categories including accessories, women’s, kids, home, toys, and more.
Lunch With Santa
Nunzio by Chef Michael DeLone, Collingswood
If you make a donation to the Food Bank of South Jersey or Toys for Tots of Camden County, the kids will eat free, and the adults will get a free glass of winter sangria. You can order off Nunzio’s regular menu, and then finish with hot cocoa and candy canes. Santa will be collecting the items and taking photos.
The Giving Tree Holiday Bazaar
Madison Community House, Madison
You can shop at the vendor market, and then donate a toy or two for the toy drive. Bethel AME culinary ministry will be offering a soul food dinner.
Sensory Santa
Upcycle Fitness, Collingswood
This will be a sensory-safe Santa experience for children and adults of all ages and abilities. Families can enjoy this holiday tradition in a calming, sensory-friendly environment – free of crowds, loud noises, and long waits.
Angels on the Catwalk
The Venetian, Garfield
Eighty-five members of the Academy of the Holy Angels Class of 2024 will be modeling fashions from local, mostly women-owned small businesses. There will be a cocktail reception and tricky tray auction during the luncheon.
Holiday Craft Fair
Louis Bay 2nd Library, Hawthorne
Find the perfect gift for friends and family from local crafters and vendors.
AWA Pawliday Winter Wonderland
509 Centennial Blvd., Voorhees
Bring your pets to take photos with Santa and The Grinch. For the humans, there will be shopping, games, activities and food trucks.
Caring Santa
Rockaway Townsquare, Rockaway Twp.
The Caring Santa Event is exclusively for children and families with special needs to visit with Santa in a sensory-friendly environment.
Santa Cares
Bridgewater Commons, Bridgewater
On International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the mall will partner with The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute and Parents With a Plan and invite children and adults within all spectrums of special needs and their families to a sensory-friendly event to take a more relaxed and comfortable photo with Santa.
Festival of Trees
New Brunswick Performing Arts Center and Amboy Bank, New Brunswick
The trees on display will represent several countries and cultures and traditions from around the world. During the opening reception on Dec. 3, there will be special holiday musical performances, including by the Hungarian Scouts of New Brunswick, and refreshments.
Jingle Bell Dash 5K
The Mill at Jersey Gardens, Elizabeth
Run your way around the mall, and prizes will be awarded for the top three finishers in each category, and best team costume.
Sinterklaas Day
Historic New Bridge Landing, River Edge
Aside from this being an old-fashioned Christmas, there will also be a Hanukkah presentation. Look for Sinterklaas so you can take a picture, and then visit the Blackhorse Inn for donuts, hot cider and other seasonal treats. You can make your own pinecone bird feeder and ornament.
Breakfast With Santa
Renault Winery, Egg Harbor City
Santa Claus will bring his sleigh to the Champagne Ballroom for a festive breakfast. You can pay to have professional photos taken.
Market & Music
Riley Park, Bradley Beach
There will be kids’ activities, live music, activities, vendor shopping and food trucks.
Holiday Dreams Cirque
Carteret Performing Arts and Events Center, Carteret
This holiday show originated in Las Vegas, and features acrobats, aerialists, comedians, daredevils and specialty acts performing feats using holograms, projection mapping, and interactive lasers.
Cranford’s Home For The Holidays House Tour
Cranford
You will be guided through each of the five homes, where volunteers will share information on the special historical and decorating details of each one. Music by Cranford High School’s Madrigal singers will be featured in three homes, along with a pop-up holiday band at another.
Christmas Candlelight House
Hightstown
The Ely House will hold a free Christmas tea with punch and cookies open to the public. Following the tea, four private homes will be open for viewing.
Gingerbread House Decorating Workshop
The Eclectic Chic Boutique, Montclair
An expert instructor will guide you through the entire process, from assembling the gingerbread walls to creating a festive roof and adding all the sweet details. You’ll learn how to pipe icing, use sprinkles and decorate with candy.
Holiday Flea Market & Gift Fair
Bergenfield High School, Bergenfield
There will be over 100 tables of gift items at this holiday market.
Top of the World: A Carpenters Christmas Show
The Levoy Theatre, Millville
Debbie Taylor takes on the persona of Karen Carpenter and is backed by a seven-piece band. This show does not use tracks or pick-up musicians. Additionally, they include a multi-media slideshow.
Cherish the Ladies’ Celtic Christmas
Union County Performing Arts Center, Rahway
The Ladies put their signature mark on classic carols such as “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Silent Night.”
Winter Wonderland Holiday Market & Lighting Celebration
East Brunswick Municipal Complex, East Brunswick
Check out all the holiday lights while you shop for gifts and attend a Christmas tree lighting and menorah lighting.
Santa Spectacular Holiday Market
Under the 14th Street Viaduct, Hoboken
Take pet photos with Santa, shop for unique gifts from more than 70 vendors, and write and send letters to Santa.
ONGOING
Makerspace Saturday
Museum of Early Trades and Crafts, Madison
First Saturday of every month
Whether you are looking for a kid-friendly project or for something creative to do after spending time at the museum, drop by Makerspace for hands-on activities in a new collaborative workspace geared toward kids ages 5 -12. Kids will build with LEGOs, paint, make jewelry, experiment with engineering and coding robots, and more.
Main Memorial Park Flea Market
Memorial Park, Clifton
Second Saturday of every month, March – December
There will be more than 100 vendors selling everything at bargain prices.
Tours of Crane House & Historic YWCA
Crane House & Historic YWCA, Montclair
Every Sunday
Take a self-guided tour to learn about the women of the Historic YWCA and the Crane family at your own pace. Take some time to walk through the gardens and meadow on site.
Wayne PAL Antique Collectibles Show and Vintage Flea Market
Wayne PAL Athletic League Complex, Wayne
First Sunday of every month, through April
The show features over 150 vendor tables in two large rooms and the front lobby where you can find vintage and sterling jewelry, glassware and Lenox, toys and trains, antique and collectible dolls and action figures, vintage postcards and photos and artwork, military, political and sports memorabilia including cards, magazines and newspapers, vintage coins and watches, classic rock CDs and more.
Frank V. Marina Flea Market
Frank A. Vincent Marina, Kearny
Second Sunday of every month, March – December
There will be more than 100 vendors selling everything at bargain prices.
Roxey Ballet Company
New Hope, PA
December 1-3, and December 9
The Dec. 1 show is a children’s matinee, and the Dec. 9 performance is sensory-friendly with a more relaxed atmosphere for the audience.
Drumthwacket Holiday Open Houses
Drumthwacket, Princeton
December 1-3, December 17-19
The governor’s mansion has an area open to the public during December Holiday Open Houses. You can view six first-floor public rooms festively decorated by the Garden Clubs of New Jersey, enjoy holiday piano music in the Music Room and a sweet treat prepared by the Drumthwacket chef.
Friday Nights at Dragon Village
The Shoppes at Dragon Village, Bridgeton
Fridays, December 1, 8 and 15
December 1 is filled with shopping and holiday lights. On December 8, the 4-H will sponsor Cookies and Cocoa with the Grinch. December 15 includes Storytime at the Shops.
Christmas Festival
Morristown Green, Morristown
December 1-17
The Green transforms into a winter wonderland at this festival, which began in 1913 with a single star atop one tree; now, the tradition includes a visit to Santa’s House, holiday music and crafts, a vintage-style oversized rocking horse, ice sculpture demos and rides along the electric trail.
Ella Enchanted
The Growing Stage – The Children’s Theatre of NJ, Netcong
December 1-17
Ella of Frell is given the “gift” of obedience by Lucinda, her misguided Fairy Godmother, and is forced to do anything people command her. On her adventure to rid herself of the curse, she must outwit ogres, sidestep giants, befriend a prince, survive her step-family, and ultimately find the power to be her true self.
North Pole Experience
Laurita Winery, New Egypt
Fridays – Sundays, December 1-24
Through the North Pole Portal, you will be transported to the Crystal Clear Lake Ice House, where you will receive a piece of magical North Pole Ice that activates Rudolph’s nose when he is flying high above on Christmas Eve. Hourly, Eddie will tell the full story of the magical ice and why it works. A visit with Santa will also be included in your journey. Once you return from the North Pole, you can walk Laurita’s Holiday Photo Trail, order hot chocolate and cookies, and sit by the bonfire.
Festival of Trees
Environmental Education Center, Basking Ridge
December 1-28
Several rooms will be decorated with trees in a variety of themes. Note: the festival is closed Dec. 22-25.
Winter Wonderland For The Holidays
New Brunswick
December 1-31
Activities include a gingerbread house decorating contest, ice skating, horse-drawn carriage rides, a Hungarian Christmas market, the Rutgers Big Chill 5K, theater performances at The State Theatre, selfies with Santa, a community Kwanzaa celebration and New Year’s Eve fireworks.
Deck the Hall – Festival of Trees
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City
December 1-31
Walk through the lobby to see beautifully decorated trees that have been sponsored by residents, businesses and local organizations.
Pink Wonderland
Bounce Sporting Club, New York, NY
December 1-31
This isn’t just a bar; there will be immersive decor, specialty cocktails, live DJs and other entertainment and themed photo ops, all pink, of course.
Dickens Village
Ricalton Square, Maplewood
December 2, 9, 16
Every year, the first three Saturdays in December turn Maplewood into a scene out of the Dickens classic “A Christmas Carol.” Peek into the mini houses arranged to see fireplaces, stockings and antique toys. Santa arrives on Dec. 2 and stays in his house for visits and photos. There will also be holiday music, a tree lighting and a menorah lighting, horse and wagon rides, kids’ crafts, and a petting farm (Dec. 9 and 16 only).
Merry & Bright Festival of Trees
The Barn at Highlands Ridge Park, Chester
December 2-9
The event features a spectacular display of decorated holiday trees of all sizes for viewing and also for sale. Inside a winter wonderland setting you can visit Santa, enjoy entertainment and visit the gift table for holiday items.
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr.
First United Methodist Church, Moorestown
Select dates, December 2-10
Little ones will be rooting for Santa’s favorite reindeer during this mini-stage production.
Holiday Activities
Easton Farmers’ Market, Easton, PA
December 2, 9, 16
Take a photo with Santa and his adorable merry goats – Millie and Mimi from The Bubbly Goat – with the river as the backdrop. Dogs are welcome to be photographed but the goats cannot be part of that photo. The Galena Brass (aka “The Little Brass Band of the Lehigh Valley”) will be strolling the market. Crafters, makers and vendors will sell items for holiday gifts. The market offers locally grown produce and fresh herbs, pasture-raised meats and eggs, cheese, wine, artisan baked goods, honey, freshly roasted coffee and prepared foods.
ELF: The Musical
Algonquin Arts Theatre, Manasquan
December 2-17
Buddy is a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is human, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.
Christmas On The Farm
Acres at Magnolia, Farmingdale
Weekends, December 2-23
The farm will be filled with Santa sightings, farm animals, wreaths and a variety of special events.
Coastal Holidays By The Sea
Pier Village, Long Branch
Select dates, December 2-31
Weekend events include rides on the Carousel, visits with Santa and holiday princesses, a juggling elf and stiltwalker show, Hanukkah pup photos and fireworks on NYE.
Snowman Splash Holiday Party
Five Star Swim School, Princeton
December 3 and 10
Your child will enjoy swimming with fun holiday floats, party games, and holiday cookies. Feel free to bring your holiday pajamas to change into after swimming. The kids will be decorating a craft that you can take home.
Brunch With Santa
Alstede Farms, Chester
December 3, 9-10, 16-17
Santa and his friends will be waiting for your family inside Harvest Hall, where he’ll be part of a casual family-style brunch ahead of Christmas.
Festival of Trees
New Brunswick Performing Arts Center and Amboy Bank, New Brunswick
December 3 – January 6, 2024
The trees on display will represent several countries and cultures and traditions from around the world. During the opening reception on Dec. 3, there will be special holiday musical performances, including by the Hungarian Scouts of New Brunswick, and refreshments.
Counterpoint: Artists From The Arts Access Program at Matheny
The Center for Contemporary Art, Bedminster
Through December 8
For more than 25 years, The Matheny Arts Access Program has been empowering artists with disabilities to create art without limits. This gallery will showcase some of their work.
Kendra: A Celebration of Work by Contemporary Indo-American Artists
The Center for Contemporary Art, Bedminster
Through December 8
Artists of all genres from the South Asian diaspora can participate and showcase their art and highlight the rich tradition of their native land through a contemporary art exhibition.
Holiday Bazaars
Grand Arcade of Convention Hall, Asbury Park
The Asbury Hotel, Asbury Park
Whitechapel Projects, Long Branch
Select dates, through December 17
These bazaars are inspired by the traditional “Weihnachtsmarkts” holiday markets held in Germany. There will be handcrafted goods and unique holiday gifts made by local and regional makers and small businesses, in addition to holiday music and entertainment, photos with Santa, food and drinks, craft workshops, kids activities, festive décor and music.
The Polar Express Train
Delaware River Railroad Excursions, Phillipsburg
Through December 17
Once you board the train car you’ll feel like you’re part of the movie. You’ll have your golden ticket punched, then get hot chocolate and cookies served by dancing chefs. Everyone will take home a keepsake sleigh bell.
Family Fun Football Sundays
Casino Pier, Seaside Heights
Sundays, through December 17
While the adults are watching NFL games, the kids can play in the arcade, get their face painted and meet special costumed characters.
Holiday Lights Hayride
Norz Hill Farm, Hillsborough
Fridays – Sundays, through Dec. 17
Bundle up because Christmas time includes a ride through the farm, where you’ll see sweet animals, interactive displays and stop by Santa’s cornfield office. When you get back to the farmhouse, sit by the fire with a mug of hot chocolate and roast some marshmallows.
Holidays in the Wildwoods
The Wildwoods
Select dates, through December 18
Activities include Christmas in North Wildwood, Family Holiday Beach Bonfire, Holiday Shopping Village on Small Business Saturday, Greater Wildwood Jaycees Downtown Wildwood Christmas in the Plaza, Christmas tree lightings, Holidays at HenVille: Shopping Village, Winter Wonderland, Pinch the GrYnch Boardwalk 5K Run and the Wildwood Crest Holiday Lights Walk.
iPlay America, Freehold Twp.
Through December 23
Santa will be onsite every day from 11 am to 6 pm for photo ops.
Stories With Santa
Renault Winery, Egg Harbor City
Select dates, through December 23
Santa will read a classic Christmas story while kids snack on milk and cookies. Kids will also get a special prize from Santa which includes a Christmas coloring book and a pack of crayons. After the story is read, feel free to take pictures with Santa.
Off-the-Wall Holiday Market
West Windsor Arts, Princeton Junction
Select dates, through December 23
Work will be original and handcrafted by the artist. The focus is on the maker: their story, what makes their process unique, the history of their craft, their sustainable practices, and any other aspect of their business that helps customers understand who they are.
Christmas Underwater
Adventure Aquarium, Camden
Through December 24
Splash into the spirit of Fishmas with Scuba Santa, who will be diving daily in Ocean Realm among sea turtles, sharks and stingrays. Take a winter stroll through the new and improved Snowtunda, which will sprinkle snow-like flurries. Don’t miss the World’s Tallest Underwater Christmas Tree, down below the aquarium’s shiver of sharks.
Holidays at MarketFair
MarketFair, Princeton
Through December 24
There are many holiday activities, including photo opportunities with Santa for children and pets, performances by various bands and choirs, cookie decorating, pet adoptions and gift-wrapping services.
Christmas Village
LOVE Park, City Halls Courtyard and North Broad, Philadelphia, PA
Through December 24
You’ll feel like you’re in Germany instead of Pennsylvania as local and international vendors set up in traditional wooden booths, offering holiday gifts, ornaments, jewelry and high-quality arts and crafts.
A Visit to Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen
Westfield Garden State Plaza, Paramus
Fridays – Sundays, through December 24
Take a guided journey through a gingerbread wonderland where you will help Mrs. Claus with her holiday baking. You’ll be given an activity sheet to explore her garden, where candy canes and surprises are around every corner. Shop the baked goods at DiLena’s Dolcini bakery. As a bonus, if you book a Sunday ticket, you’ll get an exclusive offer from one of Westfield Garden State Plaza’s onsite restaurants to use for dining in on any Sunday during December.
Ridgewood Holiday Market
16 Chestnut Street, Ridgewood
Fridays – Sundays, through December 24
The Ridgewood Guild, Femmebot and True Ascend curated the first-ever holiday market in Downtown Ridgewood. Shop and support small businesses and vendors selling jewelry, clothes, crystals and more. Santa will be available for photos on the December dates.
American Dream Holiday Cheer
American Dream, East Rutherford
Through December 24
There will be photos with Santa, Breakfast and Brunch With Santa, Chanukah at American Dream; and holiday-themed attractions at Nickelodeon Universe, Toys R Us and The Rink. Check out the Winter Wonderland all season.
Artists’ Winter Chalets
Hinds Plaza, Princeton
Fridays – Sundays, through December 24
Shop directly from artists and makers to find unique, handmade giftables for everyone on your list.
Winery Visit
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
Saturdays-Sundays, through December 30
Weather permitting, walk through the historic apple orchard. During cooler weather, seating is inside the wine barn with fire pits, outdoor heaters, and hot mulled wine. Tasting flights of Terhune wines to sample are available for adults. All ages can have fun with s’mores and hot cocoa kits. The Barn Door Café will sell lunch, while cheese plates and chips & salsa baskets are available at the winery. Live music will be on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
The Village at Anne Ellen Holiday Lights Display
Anne Ellen Tree Farm, Manalapan
Wednesdays-Sundays, through December 30
You’ll be surrounded by over 100,000 Christmas lights as you take the hayride from the farm market down to the holiday lights display. Visit Santa’s house, the train room, the life-sized igloo, the gingerbread house, the old school tree lot, the wall of lights, the post office, the cherry blossom field, and the maple sugar shack. There’s a shooting range where you can aim at holiday-themed targets using Orbeez ammunition. New for this year is Santa’s Coal Mine, where you’ll enter the mine’s tunnels to see the coal that fuels Santa’s sleigh – and is the same coal reserved for those on Santa’s naughty list. Also new is the Candy Cane Factory, where you’ll see the elves on the machines hard at work.
Skylands Stadium Light Show & Christmas Village
Skylands Stadium, Augusta
Select dates, through December 30
The 10th annual winter extravaganza includes a mile-long drive-thru course of magical displays of light, featuring everything from fully enclosed light tunnels and a majestic wreath arch to whimsical scenes of bears skating, dancing trees and more. After the drive, pull up to the Christmas Village, where you and your family can shop, eat, take a photo with Santa and make s’mores. Double S Smokehouse will cook BBQ. After dinner, stop by the Ice Cream Shop and Hot Chocolate Bar (where there will also be Irish cream, Sambuca and other liquors for adults).
Winter Wonderland Trail
Indian Acres Tree Farm, Medford
Through December 30
Your night begins with a stroll through the woods filled with fun snowmen and trees made with upcycled materials from the farm. You’ll pass by illuminated boxes with miniature scenes, including a Fairy Garden. Further down the trail, you might stumble upon a secret gnome village. The path flows out of the woods and into the live Christmas tree fields, where you can waddle past a penguin igloo town, “fly by” Birdhouse Row —but watch out for a runaway toboggan! Make your way into the White Pine field to experience a tunnel of lights snowing down on you. When you’re done, stop by the bonfires for hot chocolate and s’mores.
Spring Lake Christmas Train Village
313 Washington Ave., Spring Lake
Wednesdays – Sundays, through December 31
See the beautiful displays that will make you feel like you are traveling via rail through a winter wonderland.
December in Smithville
Historic Smithville
Through December 31
Throughout the month, come by for the Light Show on the Lake, holiday train rides, the Magic Talking Tree, Hospitality Night on December 2, Girls Night Out on December 7, breakfasts with Santa, s’mores on the green, lots of holiday shopping, and tons of holiday lights.
Winter WonderLights Holiday Lights Drive-Thru
Middlesex County 4-H, East Brunswick
Through December 31
More than 1.5 million lights are animated to some of your favorite holiday tunes. This year there are two new 30-foot trees in addition to the eleven 20-foot trees, a new tunnel, three magical tunnels, a tribute to first responders and U.S. Armed Forces, and tons of larger-than-life holiday-themed displays.
Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights Spectacular
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, West Orange
Select nights, through December 31
Take a winter stroll through the zoo under the sparkling lights of over 50 winter and animal characters. On select nights there will be visits with Santa, ice sculpture demos, Grinch Weekend and Princess Weekend.
Maccabee Bar
Ollie’s, New York, NY
Through December 31
A Boston bar owner is coming back to NY to share her Jewish heritage with holiday lovers, opening a Hanukkah-themed pop-up bar for the season.
Holiday in the Park
Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson
Select dates, through January 1, 2024
There will be millions of dazzling lights around the theme park when it is transformed for the holidays. There will be treats, a full lineup of holiday entertainment, visits with Santa and lots of photo ops – plus, many of your favorite rides will be open.
Bergen County’s Winter Wonderland
Van Saun Park, Paramus
Select dates, through January 1, 2024
There will be outdoor ice skating, games, a beer and wine garden, ice bumper cars and weekly Bergen County-based live entertainment. December 2 is the tree lighting, December 13 is the menorah lighting and December 27 is the kinara lighting.
Christmas in Cape May: Winter Wonderland
Congress Hall and Beach Plum Farm, Cape May
Through January 1, 2024
The hotel fully transforms for the season, and features family fun like Breakfast with Santa, Santa’s Workshop activities, outdoor igloos, a festive train ride around the property, a carousel on the front lawn, a Vendor Village, and holiday farm-to-table dinners at Beach Plum Farm.
Lightscape
Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Brooklyn, NY
Select nights, through January 1, 2024
Walk through a trail of 1 million lights that decorate the grounds of the garden, and listen as they dance to songs by Taylor Swift, Elton John, Mos Def and more.
Big Apple Circus: Journey to the Rainbow
Lincoln Center’s Damrosch Park, New York, NY
Through January 1, 2024
More than 30 artists from all over the world will perform in costumes specially designed for the show, and there will be a live orchestra of eight musicians.
Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market
Dilworth Park at the West Side of City Hall, Philadelphia, PA
Through January 1, 2024
Celebrate the holiday season with more than 50 local vendors from Philadelphia and the tri-state area.
Koziar’s Christmas Village
Bernville, PA
Through January 1, 2024
Situated on a farm in the middle of Berks County, PA, are acres of land and barns that are decorated for Christmas. Walk along guided paths to see the train sets, storyboards, huge inflatables, Christmas scenes and Ferris wheel. There are beautifully decorated gift shops and snack shops where you can admire the scenery while warming up.
The Candy Cottage of Christmas Magic
Rockefeller Center, New York, NY
Through January 2, 2024
Start inside the trunk of a giant Christmas tree during this immersive experience, and then you’ll be given a map to scurry around Rockefeller Plaza looking for the ingredients for Christmas magic. When you’re done, head back to the cottage for a sweet treat that includes a personalized message.
Winter Lantern Festival
American Dream, East Rutherford
Thursdays – Sundays, through January 2, 2024
More than 1,000 handcrafted Chinese lanterns and lights will be on display. The lanterns are made with hand-painted silk cloth and LED lights. There will be gorgeous displays of Chinese myths, legends and zodiac-inspired lanterns designed as an animal kingdom, a sea world and a theme park. Look for mammoths, polar bears, penguins, and a 50-foot-tall lantern display of Sun Wukong. You can also make your lantern and dress up in traditional Chinese attire.
Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
Bryant Park, New York, NY
Holiday shops open through January 2
The Rink and The Lodge, open through March 3
The rink is the largest, free ice skating rink in New York. You can relax at The Lodge, where you can eat and drink while watching skaters from the rinkside or overlooking the gigantic Christmas tree. The Holiday Shops by Urbanspace Markets is another huge draw and boasts more than 180 new and returning merchants in an open-air holiday market.
Festival of Trees
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
Wednesdays – Sundays, through January 7, 2024
Take your time walking through the museum’s elegant galleries, where Christmas trees, mantels and porches will be decorated for the holidays by local businesses, garden clubs and non-profit organizations.
Threading Memories
Art@Bainbridge, Princeton University Art Museum, Princeton
Through January 7, 2024
Korean-born artist MiKyoung Lee hosts her first solo museum exhibition. The exhibition features richly textured large-scale sculptures and wall-mounted works and explores themes of domesticity, family ties, and how we process memory and experience.
Holiday Lights at The Bronx Zoo
Bronx Zoo, The Bronx, NY
Select nights, through January 7, 2024
The zoo comes to life at night with immersive light displays, custom-designed animal lanterns and animated light shows. This year, there will be new lantern displays showcasing the wildlife of New York’s ocean waters and wetlands, plus a new interactive experience celebrating bioluminescent creatures.
A Very Furry Christmas Celebration
Sesame Place, Langhorne, PA
Select dates, through January 7, 2024
The theme park will be transformed into a one-of-a-kind Christmas wonderland with millions of twinkling lights, rides, decorations, and entertainment and activities. A
music and light show takes place at the 30-foot 1-2-3 Christmas Tree. There is a Sesame Street Christmas Parade with floats and performances. Santa’s Grand Illumination and Santa’s ‘Twas the Night Celebration will be in addition to special celebrations for Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, plus New Year’s Eve fireworks to close out 2023.
A Longwood Christmas
Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, PA
Select dates, through January 7, 2024
The beautiful landscape includes 1,100 acres of flowers, plants and trees. The 2023 theme is retro, with a nostalgic feel and throwback decorations to your favorite toys as a child. Everywhere you look, inside and outside, will be decorated for the season with bright lights and glittery tinsel.
Antique Toy Train Show
The Museum of American History at Deptford, West Deptford
Thursdays-Sundays, through January 28, 2024
The show will feature O and O-27 gauge toy trains from the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s. Lionel, Marx and American Flyer engines, with adjoining cars, will race against each other on two platforms.
Holiday Tea
The Mathis House, Toms River
Select dates, through January 31, 2024
Visit this gorgeous Victorian B&B with beautifully decorated tea rooms on the first floor, plus a year-round Christmas store in the attic. During the holiday season, come by for a special afternoon holiday tea or themed events like Friendsgiving Dinner, Scones With Santa, Most Wonderful Crime of the Year Murder Mystery and several holiday open houses.
Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY
Through March 2024
The famous ice-skating rink returns to Rockefeller Center in NYC for its 87th season. While you’re watching the skating, or when you need to take a break from the ice, you can warm up inside the special skate chalets on the South Esplanade. This year will be the first time you can enjoy alcoholic beverages in the chalets, with a soon-to-be-announced menu of drinks by Other Half Brewery, served alongside a menu of après-skate bites. Skating runs through March but the chalets will be rentable from November 4 to January 14, 2024. Details on Family and Kids Day and opportunities to take photos with Santa will be announced.
Newport Skates
Jersey City
Through March 15, 2024
JC’s only outdoor ice skating rink is not only available for open skating but for lessons and parties, too.
Roosevelt Park Family Skating Rink
Roosevelt Park, Edison
Through March 31, 2024
There is open skating as well as skating lessons.
Night Forms
Grounds for Sculpture, Hamilton Twp.
Through April 7, 2024
You will have nighttime access to the art and horticulture throughout the sculpture park, which will be illuminated in an immersive experience.
The Science Behind Pixar
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Through May 5, 2024
Learn all about the science behind Pixar’s animated films. Kids can try a bunch of hands-on experiences like making a short film, creating a robot friend for “WALL·E” and designing a new movie set using props from “Monsters University.” Learn what animation rendering is, then practice it by rendering a scene from “Inside Out.” Create a digital sculpture from an artist’s sketch. Use lights to solve challenges similar to the ones Pixar faced in creating underwater scenes with virtual light in “Finding Nemo.”
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