December is in full swing, and there are more than 180 festive happenings in NJ this weekend!
WEEKEND
Kuser Farm Mansion Christmas Tours
Kuser Farm Mansion, Hamilton Twp.
Thursday – Sunday
The Kuser Mansion was formerly the summer home of Fred Kuser of Fox Film Corporation, Lenox Company and the Mercer Motor Car Company. Built in 1892, this magnificent Queen Anne-style “country home” sits in the remaining 22 acres of the Kuser family’s original 70-acre estate. Since 1979, Kuser Mansion has served as a house museum featuring guided tours, numerous educational programs, Movie Nite and Winter Wonderland Christmas Tours.
Winter Wonderland Dance Performance
Bell Works, Holmdel
Friday – Saturday
Professional guest artists from Axelrod Performing Arts Center join academy student performers in dancing and singing through holiday classics.
Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market: Wreck the Halls
CURE Insurance Arena, Trenton
Friday – Sunday
There will be hundreds of makers, artisans and vendors set up each day. There will be dozens of food trucks, celebrity guests, live DJs, on-site tattooing and sideshow performances. This year has a new Friday Night Market.
Mistletoe Market
Turkey Brook Park, Mount Olive
Friday – Sunday
The cozy outdoor holiday market (which is dog-friendly) is where you can shop for unique gifts while sipping hot cocoa around the bonfire and listening to live music. The tree lighting and caroling are on December 6. A Charles Dickens-style caroling group performs on December 7. Randolph School of Rock performs December 8. The Mini Movers put on an energetic show on December 14. The Toll Collectors Band sings on December 15. Other activities include Santa pictures for kids, food trucks and a Festival of Trees.
A Christmas Carol
Music Mountain Theatre, Lambertville
Friday – Sunday
Ebenezer Scrooge will confront the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future to re-evaluate his life’s decisions.
The Christmas Caper
Hackensack Performing Arts Center, Hackensack
Friday – Sunday
Villians have taken Santa’s sleigh, so he can’t deliver toys on Christmas Eve. Thorndike, the pet dog of the Snow Queen on The North Pole, tries to help the elves and Mrs. Claus find the sleigh before the evil crooks use it to kidnap children, turn them into “popsickles” and feed them to the Snow Monster.
Dragon Ball DAIMA North America Tour
American Dream, East Rutherford
Friday – Sunday
Fans can explore a variety of activities related to the Dragon Ball franchise: discover new cards and collectibles, browse vendors and see about giveaways.
Christmas Con
New Jersey Convention & Expo Center, Edison
Friday – Sunday
Meet your favorite Christmas movie actors (most are from Hallmark and Great American Family), listen to panels where they share behind-the-scenes stories, shop the vendor market and watch the tree lighting.
Salem County Christmas
Salem County Fairgrounds, Pilesgrove
Friday – Sunday
Get into the Christmas spirit with food trucks, a brewery and a winery, vendors, selfies with Santa, children’s entertainment and more.
Princeton Holiday Trolley Tours
Meet at 29 Hulfish St., Princeton
Saturday – Sunday
The 1-hour guided tour aboard a historic trolley takes you around Palmer Square; past Princeton University; and through the neighborhoods of Princeton residents Paul Robeson, Albert Einstein, Grover Cleveland, Woodrow Wilson, Betsey Stockton, Andrew Carnegie, Robert Wood Johnson, Robert Oppenheimer, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Toni Morrison, Philip Roth, Michael Graves and more.
Model Train Show
NY Society of Model Engineers, Carlstadt
Saturday – Sunday
Doors open to the public in the winter and spring. There are two large operating layouts, O scale and HO, with steam and diesel engines, Thomas and friends, freight and passenger trains, and working trolleys.
Byron Barn Christmas Market
Byron Barn, Plainsboro
Saturday – Sunday
Search for a unique handcrafted gift made by dozens of artisans, enjoy some food, listen to live music, and let the kids do some crafts.
Brunch with Santa
Alstede Farms, Chester
Saturday – Sunday
Santa and his helpers will stop by during a casual family-style buffet meal inside Harvest Hall. Then, sign up for the new Cut-Your-Own Christmas Tree Adventure, where you’ll jump on a festive tractor-drawn wagon ride to the tree nursery. You can sip on hot cocoa or cider inside the Christmas Tree Barn while more of Santa’s helpers load your tree for you.
Jolly Old Christmas
Historic Speedwell, Morristown
Saturday – Sunday
Come by the historic farm for old-fashioned dancing, crafts, a visit from Santa and tours of the decorated Historic Vail House.
Santa Weekend
Old York Cellars, Ringoes
Saturday – Sunday
Get your photo taken with Santa and put it on a wine bottle label! There will be craft vendors, live music, wine tastings, wine cocktails, wine by the glass and bottle, and food by Chef José.
Noyes Holiday Market & Gingerbread Village
Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University, Atlantic City
Saturday – Sunday
There will be craft vendors, pictures with Santa, a gingerbread contest and village display, live music, craft projects, holiday market and toy drive.
Colonial Christmas Concerts & Tavern Fare
Historic New Bridge Landing, River Edge
Saturday – Sunday
Performances take place in the historically decorated 272-year-old Steuben House, where Linda Russell and Companie will whisk you back to Yuletides of yesteryear with the carols of your childhood and stories of Christmas past. You can stroll through the candlelit site to the Blackhorse Inn for a light supper or dessert of period favorites such as shepherd’s pie, soup with salad and a biscuit, Ploughman’s plate, English trifle, selection of Dutch sweets, cake donuts, and cider. Take a moment to visit Sinterklaas in the Demarest House.
Red Bank Holiday Trolley
Downtown Red Bank
Saturday – Sunday
Take a trolley ride through the beautifully decorated downtown.
Model Railway Club Holiday Train Show
The Model Railroad Club, Union
Saturday – Sunday
Parents and kids can tour the trains and layout up close, and get an insider’s peek at the expansion that’s currently under construction. See how the track is hand-laid, how mountains and scenery are created, and find out about the planning and engineering that goes into the club’s bi-level corkscrew loop.
Celebrate the Holiday Season
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
Saturday – Sunday
In December, Terhune turns into the North Pole with its special Winter Wonderland. Choose a Christmas tree and wreath. Warm up by the bonfire with hot chocolate. Pose for photos in front of Santa’s sleigh and the Winter Wonderland display.
Downtown Red Bank Holiday Trolley
Red Bank
Saturday – Sunday
The brand-new trolley will make three separate stops: Bridge Avenue at Edmund Wilson Plaza between Triumph Brewing and the Two River Theater, Mechanic Street between Dor L’Dor and Char, and then on Broad Street in front of Yestercades. The trolley will make a continuous loop between those three stops over the course of the four-hour period each day. All rides are free.
FRIDAY
Westfield Community Concert Band Holiday Concert
Edison Intermediate School, Westfield
The Edison Intermediate School Broadway Singers put on a special program of classical, traditional and contemporary holiday selections, including themes from the Nutcracker Suite and A Rhapsody on Christmas Carols.
A Nostalgic Night With Macaulay Culkin
NJPAC, Newark
Macaulay Culkin will share all his movie-making memories after a screening of “Home Alone.”
A Very Merry Brunswick
Nicholas Music Center, New Brunswick
The holiday celebration for the family includes the Cantabile Chamber Chorale, the Philomusica Concert Choir, the Rutgers Trumpet Ensemble, the Rutgers Festival Chorus and surprise special guest.
Christmas Carol Festival
Church of St. David the King, Princeton Junction
Sing traditional Christmas carols and enjoy homemade Christmas cookies, treats and wassail.
Baby Walk
Point Mountain Central, Washington
Get outside with your baby and explore a local trail. There will be nature education geared toward the adults.
SATURDAY
“Frozen” Tea Party
Casino Pier Arcade, Seaside Heights
Join Ice Princess, Ice Queen, Ice Man and their special snowman friend for a holiday tea party in the Pier Grill. Sing and dance with the princesses, listen to storytime, take photos and have some snacks.
Harambee Breakfast & Kwanzaa Celebration
Jumping Brook Country Club, Neptune City
Hosted by the North Shore Area Section, your family will learn about the holiday while eating a delicious breakfast celebrating the seven principles of Kwanzaa.
Hanukkah Silent Disco Party
JCC of Central NJ, Scotch Plains
Put on a pair of headphones and listen to your choice of music, while others do the same. There will be a giant robot and a smoke machine – plus donuts.
“The Nutcracker”
Villa Victoria Theater, Ewing
Roxey Ballet presents various performances, from shows to sensory-friendly viewings to a children’s matinee to school shows to even virtual options.
Holiday Panettone Tasting and Visit With Santa
Dolce & Clemente’s, Robbinsville
Bring the kids to visit with Santa. There will be lots of in-market tastings and samplings of imported panettones from Italy and Sicily, homemade dried charcuterie meats, deli meats, imported Italian olive oil, imported Italian tomatoes and other pre-holiday goodies.
Family Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting
Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood
There will be holiday-themed crafters and movies, photos with Santa, choir performances, children’s craft making, a magician, face painting, dance performances, Storytime with Mrs. Claus and a tree lighting ceremony.
Sensory-Friendly “The Nutcracker”
Mill Ballet, New Hope, PA
Roxey Ballet presents the classic holiday ballet with lower volume, less lighting, the ability to move around as needed, the allowance of electronic devices, and quiet spaces for needed breaks.
Kwanzaa Celebration
Vauxhall Branch Library, Vauxhall
Mr. Bill Davis & Friends perform during a full day of festivities that includes music, dance, spoken word and snacks to celebrate the theme of “umoja” as a community.
Kwanzaa Community Celebration
Montclair Public Library, Montclair
There is a marketplace, Kora for Kwanzaa music and dance performance from West Africa, spoken word poetry, libations and the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa, a visit by author Ibi Zoboi, Children of the Sun poetry, and Maati Cultural Arts Community drummers and dancers.
Sensory-Friendly Santa Event
Bierman Autism Centers, Ramsey
The welcoming and calm atmosphere is geared toward kids ages 2-9 with neurodivergent needs. They can meet Santa, take free photos, decorate cookies, and take part in winter games and activities.
The Nutcracker: Return to the Land of the Sweets
The Dolan Theater at Saint Elizabeth University, Morristown
This sequel to “The Nutcracker” has Clara gifted another Nutcracker doll and she returns to the Land of Sweets. With the Sugar Plum Fairy and her castle under siege, Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, and the Snow Angel join forces to defeat the Mouse Queen in a grand battle, restoring peace and beauty to the kingdom.
A Gospel Holiday
Science Park High School, Newark
New Jersey Symphony and New Jersey Symphony Gospel Chorus perform a holiday gospel concert.
The Nutcracker
Grunin Center for the Arts, Toms River
Ballet For Young Audiences tells the story of Clara, the Nutcracker Prince and the Rat King.
Sing Out, My Soul!
Trinity Church, Princeton
Members of Voices Chorale NJ and Capital Harmony Works Trenton’s Children’s Chorus will perform Vivaldi’s “Gloria” performed with a chamber orchestra, plus sounds of the season.
Holiday POPS!
Richardson Auditorium, Princeton
Broadway vocalist Andrea Ross and the Princeton High School Choir bring the spirit of the holiday season with festive songs.
Sonic Symphony
NJPAC, Newark
From the classic 8-bit and 16-bit tunes to rock bands and EDM, this concert will take you on a musical journey through the world of Sonic the Hedgehog.
Rutherford Elks 4th Annual Holiday Bazaar
Rutherford Elks Lodge 547, Rutherford
The holiday shopping event will have lots of unique gifts to give.
Holiday Stroll in the Park
Sloan Park, Bloomingdale
There will be carriage rides, a visit from Santa, s’mores and hot chocolate, and music by DJ Nick Salsa and Pulse Entertainment NJ.
Hungarian Christmas Market
American Hungarian Foundation, New Brunswick
There will be beautiful handmade gifts, Hungarian food and outdoor activities.
Christmas With the Celts
Newton Theatre, Newton
The Celts perform Irish music meshed with Nashville sounds. The Christmas concert will include Irish Trad instrumentals along with their original songs.
Christmas With the King
Laurita Winery, New Egypt
This holiday tribute to the music of Elvis Presley by artist Ruben Castillo follows the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s beloved hits from Elvis’s early years to his celebrated 1970s era as well as holiday classics.
Toy Truck Parade
Cooper River Park, Pennsauken
Decorate your family’s car, truck or SUV and fill the trunk with toys! You’ll drive from Collingswood to the Scottish Rite Auditorium. On-air personalities from XTU FM will judge the vehicles.
Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
State Theatre New Jersey, New Brunswick
You’ll watch acrobats and daredevil acts by circus performers, all set to a holiday theme.
Yacht Lobsters
Wonder Bar, Asbury Park
This uber popular cover band will turn back time with the smoothest hits from the ‘70s and early ‘80s.
Holiday Made in Monmouth
Collins Arena, Brookdale Community College, Lincroft
Made in Monmouth is free for both shoppers and vendors as a way to encourage the Shop Local movement. This special holiday event will feature hundreds of vendors selling gifts before the holidays.
Jolly Trolley
Downtown Freehold
Ride around the borough on an old-fashioned trolley, and as you make stops at historic locations, teen actors will jump on board as reenactors and tell you about the holidays of 100 years ago.
Fire Department Holiday Parade
Downtown Hammonton
After the holiday characters pass by along Bellevue Avenue, visit the charming shops in the downtown district.
Babes in Toyland
Music Mountain Theatre, Lambertville
The villainous Barnaby has fallen in love with sweet Mistress Mary Quite Contrary. If he can’t buy her love, then he’ll force her to marry him by threatening to foreclose on her mother, the poor Widow Piper. Mary already has her heart set on marrying Barnaby’s nephew Alan. Barnaby herds the whole gang of Mother Goose Land characters to Toyland in pursuit of Mary.
The Winter Villages of Millburn-Short Hills
Town Hall Plaza, Millburn
Event highlights include free s’mores from Splurge Bakery, fire pits, cozy igloos, local vendors, hot chocolate and hot soup for purchase from Jack’s Surf & Turf, holiday selfie scenes, beer from Bull N Bear Brewery, a bake sale benefiting Coding for Good of Millburn High School, free specialty coffee from a DUNKIN’ food truck, holiday characters, holiday music, games and giveaways.
Kids Holiday Workshops
The Ryland Inn, Whitehouse Station
Kids can decorate 12 seasonal-shaped butter cookies.
Holiday Model Train Show
Garden State Model Railway Club, North Haledon
Members will be running steam and diesel trains of all kinds on a 1,200-square-foot HO scale layout, including Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends. The second railroad room will be open with a new railroad currently under construction, a children’s railroad where kids can try their hand at running trains, and for-sale items.
SUNDAY
Santa’s Workshop
Casino Pier Arcade, Seaside Heights
Kids can help Santa, the Gingerbread Man and the Elf on the Shelf build gingerbread houses.
Celtic Woman: White Christmas Symphony Tour
Wellmont Theater, Montclair
The Irish singers will be backed by a full symphony as they sing Christmas classics.
Twelve Twenty-Four
The Levoy Theatre, Millville
Twelve Twenty-Four includes a six-piece rock band, multi-piece string section, and a variety of vocalists who will put on a rocking holiday musical.
Handmade Holiday
The Woodland, Maplewood
This annual tradition brings together 60 unique artisan vendors across two floors, offering one-of-a-kind, handmade goods.
An Afternoon With Ali Stroker
Pfleeger Concert Hall at Rowan University, Glassboro
New Jersey’s Tony Award winner will perform an afternoon concert of Broadway favorites. Stroker is the first wheelchair user to be nominated for and win a Tony Award in 2019. While at Rowan, Stroker will host a musical theatre masterclass for students, some of whom will be invited to join her on stage. The matinee performance will offer ASL interpretation and a discounted ticket process to deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences.
Breakfast Buffet with Santa
Bernards Inn, Bernardsville
The prix fixe holiday buffet brunch – catered by Red Horse by David Burke – will feature holiday music, decorations and activities for kids. Brunch includes freshly baked croissants, coffee cake, pain au chocolate, mini muffins, fruit platters, yogurt parfaits, scrambled eggs, breakfast hash potatoes, french toast, pancakes, bagels, bacon, sausage, pastrami smoked salmon, wild mushroom frittata and green beans with roasted almonds. Plus, sugar cookies, Christmas tree cupcakes, s’mores tarts, and eggnog and cranberry macarons.
Weis Winter Wonderland
New Weis Center for Education, Arts & Recreation, Ringwood
There will be a cozy campfire going all afternoon, with rustic benches and picnic tables (built as an Eagle Scout project) to sit and socialize. Warm up and grab a cup of hot chocolate, tea, snacks, or toast a marshmallow over the fire. Get creative and make a seasonal nature craft!. Visit the Sustainable Ringwood Green Team’s cabin for a fun nature art activity. Ask about sustainable holiday gifting.
Tuba Christmas
Woodstown Presbyterian Church, Woodstown
Dress in festive attire and listen as tuba players perform holiday classics.
Red Firecrackers
Jersey City Theatre Center, Jersey City
Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company presents the legend of the Chinese New Year.
Family Winter Hike
New Jersey Botanical Garden, Ringwood
An easy, child-friendly hike in the New Jersey Botanical Garden’s woodlands will teach you about the plants and animals around.
NJ Jubilation Handbell Choir Concert
New Jersey Botanical Garden, Ringwood
Fourteen handbell musicians ring on 5 octaves of Whitechapel handbells and almost 6 octaves of chimes. The group performs handbell music, and educates the audience on the many facets of ringing handbells.
Pictures with Santa and Alpacas
Hidden Spring Lavender & Alpacas Farm & Gift Shoppe, Skillman
Have your kids tell Santa what they want for Christmas and grab some photos of them with an alpaca or two.
Brunch with Santa
Lobster Shanty, Point Pleasant Beach
Sit down for a buffet, meet Santa for pictures, and ask about your free gift.
Christmas at Allaire
Historic Village at Allaire, Farmingdale
Wander through the Village from the Chapel to Allaire House, while you listen to the sounds of live caroling. Visit with Santa in the Visitor Center. You can watch talented craftspeople forge, smith, cook and carve. Take part in Victorian holiday celebrations, from ornament making to traditional party games. Drop your holiday cards off at the Allaire Post Office to have a hand-canceled limited edition holiday postmark affixed.
Breakfast With Santa
Yankee Doodle Tap Room, Nassau Inn, Princeton
Santa will stop by as you eat from the breakfast buffet selections to take lots of pictures.
Winter Pop-Up Vendor & Crafters Fair
Hamilton Township Public Library, Hamilton Twp.
The Wurst Wagon will be on site, and hot chocolate will be served during a performance by the Steinert High School Choir.
ONGOING
Feed at Reed’s
Reed’s Farm, Egg Harbor Twp.
Every Saturday
Every Saturday at 1 pm, you can help feed the animals on the farm, plus learn about the behavior and care of chickens, pigs, sheep and more, plus their roles on a regenerative farm.
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.
Vegan in NJ Monthly Market
American Legion Post 346, Neptune
First Sunday of every month
More than 20 vegan vendors will be set up indoors and outdoors, selling food, sweets and retail items.
Main Street Pops Artisan Market
Under the 14th Street Viaduct, Hoboken
Select Sundays, through December
Local makers and creators from the area sell their unique handmade creations, ranging from fashion and jewelry to art and photography to home decor and vintage finds to artisanal foods and pet products to kids’ stuff. There is also live music and outdoor games. On November 23, Murr from Impractical Jokers and his wife Melyssa will be selling from their No. 95 Candles line. Special holiday markets are planned for December 15 and 22.
Christmas in Cape May
Throughout Cape May
Through December
Cape May will transform into the Garden State’s holiday headquarters. Take a ride on the holiday train at Congress Hall, make a reservation for Breakfast with Santa, do your holiday shopping along Washington Street Mall, take a walking or trolley tour, and relive Christmas Past on a horse-drawn carriage ride.
Broadway for the Holidays
Grunin Center for the Arts, Toms River
Select dates, December 12-22
Broadway mixes with the holiday season during this concert.
Christmas in The Wildwoods
The Wildwoods
December 13-15
The weekend features the Wildwood Winter Wonderland at Holly Beach Park, which includes a holiday lights show; and the Family Holiday Celebration at the Wildwoods Convention Center, with family-friendly activities, entertainment and shopping. If you like to take your time strolling, plan for the Wildwood Crest Holiday Lights Walk; if you prefer a faster pace, sign up for the Pinch the “GrYnch” Boardwalk 5K Run. Relax after at the 12 Pubs of Christmas; there will be free transportation offered between the different bars.
Yuletide at the Museum
Indian King Tavern Museum, Haddonfield
Fridays, December 13 and 20
Tour the building, create a Pomado (a colonial era ornament), warm up with hot cider and discover how our ancestors celebrated during the American Revolution. On December 13, from 7-8 pm, Robert Mouland, a musician and puppeteer, will play period music and perform with period era marionettes called Limberjacks. Candlelight Shopping in Downtown Haddonfield takes place as well, with carolers and visits from Mrs. Claus.
The Nutcracker
Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown
December 13-26
December 14 at 1 pm
December 14 at 6 pm
December 15 at 1 pm
This version of performances features the New Jersey Ballet with music by New Jersey Symphony Orchestra.
Outdoor Ice Skating
Veterans Park, North Brunswick
Fridays, December 13 – February 28, 2025
Pajama Jam! is December 14 and 15, where you can wear your favorite PJs while you skate. Super Hero Weekend is December 21 and 22, and you’re encouraged to dress up as your favorite superhero or wear a superhero shirt. Sweater Days are December 28 and 29; dress your family in their favorite sweaters.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
New Brunswick
December 14, 15, 17, 19 and 21
View the extravagant winter decorations of New Brunswick’s City Center with a fun and safe ride through downtown aboard a beautiful horse-drawn carriage.
Small Business Weekend
Main Street, Highland Park
December 14, 21-22
The festivities will include Night Owl Holiday Craft Markets with local crafters, artisans, and food vendors, a gingerbread house contest, caroling with the Highland Park Community Chorus, the downtown tree lighting with Santa’s arrival on a fire truck (Saturday), and live music from the Jeremy Sweet Trio. Night Owl Craft Markets will continue on December 14, 21 and 22.
The Nutcracker
December 14, Patriots Theater, War Memorial, Trenton
December 20-22, State Theatre New Jersey, New Brunswick
The American Repertory Ballet will take its show on the road to different venues. The holiday tradition includes professional artists plus over 100 children from Princeton Ballet School, the official school of American Repertory Ballet.
Flounder’s Kringle Market
Carriage Farm / Flounder’s Brewing Co., Hillsborough
December 14-15 and 21-22
Christmas at Carriage Farm includes craft vendors, pictures with Santa, live music, a Christmas tree lot, local dance school holiday performances, and special drinks at Flounder Brewing and Bellemara Distillery.
Happy Holiday Market
Grove St. PATH Plaza and The Ashford Rooftop, Jersey City
December 14-15 and 21-22
Shop handmade gifts, sample holiday treats and take festive photos at the market; or have brunch or cocktails on the rooftop of the restaurant (additional cost applies).
Winter Hayrides
Cherry Grove Farm, Lawrenceville
December 14 and 22
There will be free hayrides around the perimeter of the farm. Keep an eye out for cows, chickens and other farm animals. Stop inside the market for award-winning cheeses and meats that come from the farm.
Christmas Craft Class
Laurita Winery, New Egypt
December 14, 15 and 21
Kids and adults can learn how to make a Reindeer Food Jar or a Santa Cookie Jar from Laurita’s resident artists Bette and Eddie.
Dickens Village
Maplewood
December 14 and 21
The downtown turns into a scene out of Charles Dickens’ classic story, “A Christmas Carol.” Peek into the mini houses arranged in Ricalton Square to see fireplaces, stockings and antique toys. There’ll be music, a tree and menorah lighting, horse and wagon rides, kids’ crafts and a petting farm on select dates.
Sea of Lights Holiday Lights Spectacular
Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Pt. Pleasant
December 14, 21-22, 28
The winter wonderland includes treats, crafts, pictures with Santa, games, Diving Santa, and nighttime holiday entertainment. The aquarium, Sweet Shop, gift shop, pavilion and arcade will be open.
Breakfast with Santa
Seaview Hotel and Golf Club, Galloway
December 15 and 22
The multi-stationed buffet inside the hotel’s grandiose Main Dining Room will have fresh baked pastries, fresh fruits, yogurts, a selection of cereals and breads, a chef-attended omelet station, scrambled eggs, bacon, French toast, and a Kids Mini Pancake Bar with all the toppings. After breakfast, families are invited to take a photo with Santa.
Essex County Holiday House Tour
The Crane House & Historic YWCA, Montclair
December 15: Winter Wonderland Open House
December 22: Winter Wonderland final weekend
Free, self-guided tours let you explore this 227-year-old home at your leisure. See the beautiful period decorations set up by the Garden Club of Montclair. Warm yourself in the hearth and learn about holiday food traditions. Stop in to the Nathaniel Crane House for unique holiday gifts.
Chanukah 2024 With Chabad
December 15: Florence Chabad & Joint Base McGuire, Florence
December 25: A Cozy Chanukah Party, Cherry Hill
December 26: Medford Chanukah Walk in Medford, Collingswood Chanukah Celebration in Collingswood
December 28: Chanukah on Ice at Igloo Ice Rink in Mt. Laurel, CTeen Jr. Meetup at The Rink at Igloo Ice Rink in Mt. Laurel
December 29: Menorah Car Parade in Cherry Hill, Giant Menorah Mega Event at Barclay Farms in Cherry Hill
December 30: Haddonfield Chanukah Celebration in Haddonfield, Hainesport Chanukah Celebration in Hainesport
December 31: Moorestown Chanukah Chabad & MJA, Moorestown
Presented by Chabad Lubavitch of Camden and Burlington Counties.
Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa Parade
Haddonfield
Through December 20
Winter festivities include Candlelight Shopping on Fridays through December 20 (which includes carolers, live music, visits with Mrs. Claus and Yuletide at the Museum; and then Winterfest and Souper Bowl Sunday January 17-19. Parking is free downtown through December 31.
Ocean’s Holiday Village
Ocean Casino Resort, Atlantic City
Saturdays, through December 21
The Shops at the Row offer holiday pop-up shops.
Red Mill Village Festival of Trees
Red Mill Village, Clinton
Saturdays – Sundays, through December 22
See beautifully decorated Christmas trees and other holiday decor throughout the village.
Holiday Spectacular Christmas & Train Display
InfoAge Science and History Museums, Wall Twp.
Saturdays – Sundays, through December 22
Admission to the train show includes access to all of the museums on site. If you bring a donation for Toys for Toys, you’ll receive half-off adult admission.
Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar
Grand Arcade at Convention Hall and Asbury Hotel, Asbury Park
Fridays – Sundays, through December 22
The holiday market will showcase handcrafted goods and unique holiday gifts by local and regional makers and small businesses, holiday music and entertainment, food and drinks, craft workshops, pet photos, kids’ activities, festive décor, music, pictures with Santa and a toy drive.
Holiday Lights Hayride
Norz Hill Farm
Select dates, through December 22
Bundle up in a blanket because Christmas time includes a ride through the farm, where you will see interactive displays, check out the animals and stop by Santa’s cornfield office. When you get back to the farmhouse you can sit by the fire with a mug of hot chocolate.
Christmas Festival
Morristown Green, Morristown
Select dates, through December 22
The festival 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 vintagestyle oversized rocking horse, ice sculpture demos and rides along the mini electric trail.
Scrooge
Spring Lake Theatre, Spring Lake
Select dates, through December 22
Follow Ebenezer Scrooge on his transformative journey as he is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve, leading him to discover the true meaning of Christmas.
North Pole Experience
Harbaugh Village, Mullica Hill
Select dates, through December 22
Admission includes holiday lights displays, reindeer, handwritten letters to Santa (plus a free photo), live entertainment, carousel rides, boardwalk and sports games, and a vendor village. Other special events include Breakfast with Santa on December 15, Stories with Santa every Saturday and Sunday (includes milk, cookies, storytime, a craft and a picture with Santa), ice skating, and fire pit and igloo rentals.
Holidays at Johnson’s Corner Farm
Johnson’s Corner Farm, Medford
Through December 23
Hop on the Christmas Light Show Hayride that takes the holiday drive-thru to a whole new level. The Light Show on the Lake has thousands of lights. Make a date for Breakfast with Santa.
Rolling Railway Magical Holiday Express
DiDonato’s Family Fun Center, Hammonton
Select dates, through December 23
When you buy a ticket for the train ride that takes you around 1 million lights on display, you also get a ticket to go bowling. Outside, there is a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, selfies with Frosty, a movie area and the biggest indie gift shop in South Jersey.
Cozy Cottage Christmas
Back to Nature Home & Garden Center, Basking Ridge
Through December 23
The annual Christmas Market transforms the garden center into a charming holiday haven. Discover everything from trees to fresh greens and wreaths, to festive ornaments and decorations, to amaryllis bulbs and paperwhite flowers, to a selection of candles, to unique gifts, florals and decor.
Yuletide at Liberty Hill
Union League Liberty Hill, Lafayette Hill, PA
Through December 23
Yuletide’s second season will feature festive rides, cozy fire pits, plus holiday eats and entertainment. There is a High-End Market Village with 30+ vendors, a Ferris wheel and carousel, lights displays, more than 500 lit Christmas trees, Bergy’s Beer Garden, ice skating, live music, photos with Santa and storytime with Mrs. Claus.
Christmas Underwater
Adventure Aquarium, Camden
Through December 24
You and your crew can take selfies with Scuba Santa, who will be diving daily in Ocean Realm among sea turtles, sharks and stingrays. Or, visit his magical workshop on land to take more pics. There will be snow flurries inside the Snowtunda, the World’s Tallest Underwater Christmas Tree, the Merry Fishmas Boris puppet show, and all your favorite sea creatures in their exhibits.
Meet Santa
The Shops at Riverside, Hackensack
Through December 24
Aside from photos with Santa, you ask when he pauses for storytime as he reads “The Night Before Christmas.”
Santa @ The Commons
Bridgewater Commons, Bridgewater
Through December 24
Meet Santa in the Center Court for photos. Mention NJ Family to receive $5 off of your photo package.
Simon Santa Photo Experience
Menlo Park Mall, Edison
Through December 24
There will be a Santa Arrival Party & Parade on November 9. Welcome Santa’s arrival with carolers, a juggling stilt-walker, a DJ dance party, crafts, and giveaways. Then join Santa in a parade around the mall. Caring Santa is an exclusive event for children with special needs and their families. Reservations are required for this private, sensory-friendly experience on December 8. Pet photos will be available on November 17 and December 1.
Christmas Village in Philadelphia
City Hall and LOVE Park, Philadelphia, PA
Through December 24
Over 110 vendors offer unique Christmas-giftware and European food specialties. Always a must-see is the famous German vendor Käthe Wohlfahrt, which features authentic German ornaments and Christmas gifts. Ride the historic, double tier carousel and 65-foot Ferris Wheel. European food options include bratwurst, Raclette cheese, strudel, schnitzel, spätzle, Belgian fries and more.
Christmas Wonderland
Maple Leaf Farms, Manalapan
Through December 24
There will be train rides every Thursday to Sunday; and Santa is on site from Wednesday to Sunday. You can get a Christmas tree here, too, which was grown on the farm.
Night of Lights at Creamy Acres
Creamy Acres Farm, Mullica Hill
Select dates, through December 24
Bundle up and take a hayride through their display while you sing along to Christmas classics.
Shrek The Halls
DreamWorks Water Park, American Dream, East Rutherford
Through December 24
Shrek will be decked out in Santa gear for photo ops inside the heated water park.
Christmas in Concert
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Atlantic City
Through December 24
Dance in your seat to performances of Christmas classics like “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” “Sleigh Ride,” Run Run Rudolph,”and more sung by eight vocalists in tandem with a live orchestra.
Geoffrey’s Express
Toys ‘R’ Us, American Dream, East Rutherford
Through December 24
Take a train ride through American Dream aboard Geoffrey’s Express.
Marlin Christmas Wonderland
1326 Laurel Ave., Sea Girt
Through December 25
This house has an over-the-top Christmas display that uses projection mapping and a light show to display scenes from Home Alone, The Nightmare Before Christmas, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, A Christmas Story, The Grinch and Frozen. Plus, see Santa’s cabin, gingerbread houses, singing reindeer, the North Pole Post Office, a mountain village, Mickey & Friends and more. Tune your radio to 88.9 FM to hear synchronized music to the lights. While you’re there, you can donate to Jersey Pits Rescue.
Nick the Halls
Nickelodeon Universe, American Dream, East Rutherford
Through December 25
Santa SpongeBob will greet families inside the theme park. At the Elf Workshop, elves can help you write a letter to Santa, decorate ornaments, and create festive crafts.
A Christmas Carol
McCarter Theatre Center, Princeton
Through December 29
Led by veteran stage and screen actor Joel McKinnon Miller as Ebenezer Scrooge (for the second year), with members of the Youth Ensemble, a group of nine actors from the local community. American Sign Language Interpretation is December 21, Audio Described and Open Captioned Performance is December 22, and a relaxed performance for those with sensory issues is December 29.
Free Coffee
Quick Chek, Multiple locations
Fridays, through December 27
Every Friday in November and December, all you have to do is spend $1 as a QC Rewards member and you can get any sized coffee, hot or cold, for free.
North Pole Express
Black & Western Railroad, Flemington
Saturdays – Sundays, through December 28
Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus on board the train as you travel to “the North Pole,” where you’ll get cookies and hot cocoa, take festive photo opportunities, and visit a historical train museum.
Holidays in Haddon Township
Haddon Twp.
Through December 28
Events during the holiday season include a toy drive, food drive, dinner with Santa, a holiday parade, the Winterfest Market, Santa’s Silver Sleigh stops, an ugly sweater party, the SoHa Arts Holiday Makers Market, and Last Saturday on the Square.
Christmas on the Farm & Walk-Through Light Show
Allaire Community Farm, Wall Twp.
Thursdays – Sundays, through December 29
Take a tractor-drawn hayride (known as the Yuletide Wagon) through the 25-acre farm that has tens of thousands of lights in a massive Christmas village. Stop inside the market for hot chocolate and cider donuts – and to get a feed bag to feed the animals. Ask about photos with Santa, too.
Orchard of Lights
Demarest Farms, Hillsdale
Select dates, through December 29
Take a ride through 32 acres of holiday lights and then warm up by the fire pit with hot cocoa. There’s also a farm market and pictures with Santa.
Mariah Carey’s Black Irish Holiday Bar
Virgin Hotels, New York City
Through December 29
Deck the halls at a winter wonderland that includes a magical holiday window photo display with a custom “All I Want For Christmas Is You” neon sign, a festive wreath you can sit on, and a chance to recreate the iconic album cover from Mariah Carey’s Magical Christmas Special. There will be an interactive photo booth, a Black Irish Christmas tree, a “Letters to Mariah” station, a lyric wall, and more. The drinks are inspired by Mariah’s Black Irish liqueur.
Grinch’s Grotto
Cucina Calandra, Fairfield
Through December 30
This Grinch-themed bar will hold special events with the Grinch himself on select nights.
The Village at Anne Ellen
Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm, Manalapan
Wednesdays – Sundays, through December 30
After taking a quick hayride through the farm, you’ll see 400,000 lights shining amidst the trees. There are light displays, s’mores and hot chocolate, letters to Santa, airsoft shooting and a new 4D sleigh ride experience.
Christmas Fantasy With Lights
Storybook Land, Egg Harbor Twp.
Through December 30
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 (known as Jumping Jumbos during the regular season).
Tulips: Winter Wonderland
Holland Ridge Farms, Cream Ridge
Through December 30
The walk-through event at this mega farm will combine the farm family’s love of tulips and the holidays, offering 30,000 illuminated tulips, fresh cut tulips and u-plant bulbs, a winter market hosted by Asbury Fresh, lots of holiday photo activations, Santa’s Workshop with activities for kids, food trucks, a bakery, plus more surprises to be announced.
Skylands Stadium Light Show & Christmas Village
Skylands Stadium, Augusta
Select dates, through December 30
Sussex County’s North Pole includes a mile-long drive-through of holiday scenes, 2 million twinkling lights, and a cozy Christmas Village featuring holiday treats and drinks, shopping, memory-making photo ops, and more.
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.
Holiday Light Spectacular
Turtle Back Zoo, West Orange
Select dates, through December 31
Take a stroll through outdoor light displays, get a photo with Santa, watch ice sculpting demos and, of course, see the animals at this beloved zoo.
Melissa & Doug Shop in Shop
Indigo-Short Hills Mall, Short Hills
Through December 31
Discover the latest screen-free and kid-powered toys from the brand, from classic puzzles to pretend play sets. There’s also a play area, and photo opportunities throughout the store.
Christmas Train Village
Duggan Hall, Spring Lake
Wednesdays – Sundays, through December 31
The village is a re-creation of the beautiful town of Spring Lake.
Festival of Trees
Downtown Cranford
Through December 31
Holiday trees will be set up in storefront windows, decorated by families and organizations from Cranford. People walking around the downtown area will see all of the trees, and vote for their favorite.
Twinkling Tides
Sea Life Aquarium, American Dream, East Rutherford
Through January 1, 2025
Celebrate the holidays under the sea with thousands of lights under the sea. Check out more than 10 interactive zones decked in holiday décor. Spot Scuba Claus in the ocean tunnel on select dates. During the Coldwater Creature Scavenger Hunt, grab the holiday scavenger hunt map when you start your journey and discover cool creatures that thrive in the cold. The Noon Years Eve celebration in the Ocean View exhibit takes place on December 31 at noon.
Holiday Bricktacular Activities
LEGOLAND, American Dream, East Rutherford
Through January 1, 2025
The winter wonderland of activities include Build To Give, Miniland Winter Wonderland takeover, Meet LEGO Santa or LEGO Gingerbread, and a seasonal scavenger hunt.
Holiday Adventure
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Through January 1, 2025 (closed December 25)
Every day, you can glide around the expanded and improved Sock Skating Rink, with fluffy “snowball” fights every hour. Enjoy new holiday-themed shows in America’s biggest planetarium. Seasonal labs and science shows are included, as are the Curious George, Blue Whale and other exhibits. On weekends, take a journey on the Snowflake Express, a new mini passenger train that tours a winter wonderland. There’s a holiday gift explosion in the Boom Time show, a holly jolly Dance Party, and Candy Cane or Vanilla Ice Cream made the scientific way with liquid nitrogen. Santa Claus will be present every weekend until Christmas. After Christmas, there will be a live penguin, a bouncy kangaroo, a playful lemur, and more animal friends.
Frost Fest
Luna Park at Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY
Through January 1, 2025
Every winter, Luna Park’s Frost Fest takes over with a 35-foot Christmas tree, a Candy Cane Chute slide, an igloo entrance that leads into Santa’s Wonderland, pictures with the Polar Bear Club Plunge mascot, “campfire treats” at Coney’s Cocoa Corner and fresh cider at Luna’s Apple Orchard. The iconic Coney Island Cyclone is still open for the season, along with more than 20 other amusement park attractions and rides.
Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market
Dilworth Park, Philadelphia, PA
Through January 1, 2025
There will be more than 50 vendors from the Tri-State Area set up in picturesque white wooden booths decorated with Moravian stars. Christmas Village in Philadelphia will be set up across the street.
Holiday Festivities at Sesame Place
Sesame Place Philadelphia, Langhorne, PA
Select dates, through January 1, 2025
All month long there are Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and New Year’s celebrations featuring your kid’s favorite Sesame Street characters.
Holiday in the Park
Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson
Select dates, through January 1, 2025
‘Tis the season for glittering lights, live entertainment, yummy seasonal eats and a festive spin on your favorite rides at New Jersey’s popular amusement park.
Koziar’s Christmas Village
Koziar’s Farm, Bernville, PA
Select dates, through January 1, 2025
There are more than a million lights that illuminate the Koziar property, lining everything from the lake to the barns to the walkways to the trees. Character versions of Rudolph and Frosty greet you to say hello. There are a series of snack shops and gift shops throughout. You follow the arrows around the pathways to check out every corner of this dazzling scene, which includes light displays, a railroad, exhibits and houses you can walk through.
Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed
Monmouth Museum, Brookdale Community College, Lincroft
Tuesdays – Sundays, through January 2, 2025
This interactive exhibit explores the bones and fossils of the giant creatures that once roamed the Earth. See full-size T-Rex and velociraptor models, footprints and eggs. Special events will be announced during the duration of the exhibit, including guided tours, a special museum fundraiser, a Christmas tree lighting and Noon Year’s Eve.
LumiNature
Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia, PA
Select nights, through January 2, 2025
The winter light show experience doesn’t include the animal exhibits – but it does include dazzling displays, light performers, a den of puppet foxes and penguins, the Peacock Strut and selfies with Santa inside The Treehouse.
Magic of Lights Holiday Lights Drive-Through
PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel
Through January 4, 2025
See 2.5 miles of holiday lights in this drive-through experience, with LED tech and digital animations, including a larger-than-life sparkling Holiday Barbie display, the supersized Bigfoot Monster Truck, and life-sized dinosaurs of Prehistoric Christmas. There is also snow, a holiday village, visits with Santa and ice skating.
Mirror Maze: Theme Maze
Mirror Maze, American Dream, East Rutherford
Through January 4, 2025
Navigate your way through the holiday-themed maze as festive lights and music play throughout the attraction.
The Magic Flute – Holiday Performance
Metropolitan Opera House, New York, NY
Through January 4, 2025
The Met’s holiday tradition continues with Julie Taymor’s family-friendly production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute. The annual Holiday Open House is December 14, where families can experience festive behind-the-scenes demos by members of the Met’s backstage and artistic staff.
A Sinner’s Christmas Experience
Sinner’s Steakhouse, Point Pleasant Beach
Through January 5, 2025
The jolly ol’ sinful experience includes craft Christmas cocktails, food specials, Santa’s favorite desserts and fun for all ages. Try a signature cocktail like Reif Rum Coquito, Cousin Eddie’s Egg Nog or Scrooge’s Usual; or you can make your own hot chocolate.
LuminoCity Festival: Wonder Journey
Freehold Raceway Mall, Freehold Twp.
Select dates, through January 5, 2025
The larger-than-life lights display is based on “Alice in Wonderland,” and includes the Wonderland Tea Party, the iconic butterfly seat, the life-sized Queen’s Castle and a slide down the Queen of Heart’s tower.
Christmas at Bubbly Goat
The Bubbly Goat, Stockton
Saturdays – Sundays, through January 5, 2025
Spend time playing with the baby goats (yes, no kidding!) during the holiday season.
Festival of Trees
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
Wednesdays – Sundays, through January 5, 2025
The museum’s galleries, mantels and porches are artfully decorated for the holidays by local businesses, garden clubs, and non-profit organizations.
Winter WonderLights
Middlesex County Fairgrounds, East Brunswick
Through January 5, 2025
The drive-through is synchronized with a radio station. This year will offer six light tunnels and bigger displays. Returning favorites are giant Christmas trees (two 30-foot trees, and 11 20-foot trees), and tributes to first responders and U.S. Armed Forces.
Kringle Cove Holiday Express
White Chapel Projects, Long Branch
Through January 5, 2025
The holiday restaurant and bar pop-up will have Merry Brunchmas with Elsa, Olaf, Elf and the Grinch; cookies with Sweet Dani B; pet photos with Santa; wreath making classes; a musical showcase; and a s’mores station throughout the season.
GLOW to Bed: The Journey Through Time
Visit GLOW, Washington Twp.
Through January 5, 2025
You’ll experience the excitement of Christmas Eve through the eyes of a child, until you “wake up” on Christmas morning. The route is 1.2 miles long – and has a very specific 8,847,360 animated lights synchronized to music – that you see as you drive through the property.
Newark Winter Village
Mulberry Commons Park, Newark
Wednesdays – Sundays, through January 5, 2025
Stop by for a day of ice skating, go-karts, games and activities, heated private igloos or pods, an open-air holiday marketplace, and special events throughout the season.
Holiday Harbor Lights Cruise
Pier 83, West 42nd and 12th streets, New York, NY
Through January 5, 2025
Sail along the Hudson River while listening to Christmas music, making your own Santa hat and drinking a Rockette-tini.
A Very Furry Christmas
Sesame Street Philadelphia, Langhorne, PA
Select dates, through January 5, 2025
Throughout the season, meet Mr. Claus at Santa’s Furry Workshop, an interactive walk-through experience, and at Santa’s Christmas Dine. There will be shows like Elmo’s Christmas Wish, A Very Merry Sesame Street Sing-Along, the Furry Friends Holiday Dance Party, and the 1-2-3 Christmas Tree Light Show.
New Jersey Arts Annual: Exploring Our Connections
Montclair Art Museum, Montclair
Through January 5, 2025
The exhibition showcases contemporary art from across the Garden State, based on the themes of family, community, and belonging, expressed through different mediums of art.
Blue Whale: The World’s Biggest Animal
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Through January 5, 2025
The exhibition tells the story of the 60-ton whale that washed ashore in Trout River, Newfoundland, in 2014. You’ll see the enormous skeleton of a recovered blue whale and discover how whales evolved, the size of their heart, how they communicate, their decline, what’s being done to protect them, and how scientists are using DNA to unlock some of the secrets of these elusive creatures.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show
The Duke Theater at New 42 Studios, New York, NY
Through January 5, 2025
The show returns to NYC to celebrate its 10th anniversary. This production will feature two tales from Eric Carle: The Artist That Painted a Blue Horse and Mr. Seahorse. You will also see The Very Lonely Firefly and The Very Hungry Caterpillar during the 50-minute show. During the holiday season, Dream Snow will be added to the story rotation for the first time in New York City.
Big Apple Circus: Hometown Playground
Lincoln Center’s Damrosch Park, New York, NY
Through January 5, 2025
The circus show has soaring acrobats, stunts, comedy, mischief, and cute performing dogs.
Light Show on the Lake
Historic Smithville & Village Green, Galloway
Through January 6, 2025
This quaint South Jersey shopping town gets all decked out for the holidays with a talking Christmas tree, 50,000 lights and “dancing” trees on Lake Meone.
Festival of Trees
New Brunswick
Through January 7, 2025
Members of local organizations have decorated Christmas trees, which will be on the display at the American Hungarian Foundation gallery, New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, the Heldrich Hotel, and Amboy Bank.
Fanwood’s Famous Christmas House
83 Paterson Rd., Fanwood
Through January 8, 2025
This holiday display features 30,000 sparkling lights. Monetary donations are accepted on site to support the New Jersey Institute for Disabilities.
Bergen County Winter Wonderland
Van Saun County Park, Paramus
Through January 12, 2025
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.
A Longwood Christmas
Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, PA
Through January 12, 2025
The gardens come alive with bright lights and glittery tinsel. New for the season is A Taste of Christmas in the Fountain Room, and the new 1906 dining space with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the iconic Main Fountain Garden. This is part of Longwood Reimagined: A New Garden Experience, a revitalization project that expanded exhibitions, programs and events on the grounds.
Tianyu Lights Festival
Citi Field, Flushing, Queens, NY
Through January 12, 2025
Intricate light sculptures, vibrant displays, and a story about a young boy who returned from a trip to the Amazon pull you into a storybook adventure at this Chinese traditional lights festival.
Holidig Drive Thru Light Show
Diggerland, West Berlin
Select dates, through January 12
Marvel at the lights, holiday displays and tunnels as you drive through 1.25 miles inside America’s only construction theme park.
Let it Glow
Bergen County Zoo, Paramus
Thursdays – Sundays, through January 12
As you walk through the zoo or ride on the train, you’ll see 30 larger-than-life scenes decorated with animal-themed lanterns.
Vintner Wonderland
Renault Winery & Resort, Egg Harbor City
Select dates, through January 19, 2025
The winery grounds are open to families for ice skating, a holiday market, fire pits, live music, and of course wine. You can sponsor a Christmas tree for the Festival of Trees display. The Christmas tree lighting ceremony is December 6. The holiday markets are open November 29 to December 1, December 6-8 and December 20-22.
Antique Toy Train Show
The Museum of American History at Deptford, NJ, Deptford
Thursdays – Sundays, through February 2, 2025
See 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 diverse platforms. Vintage Plasticville buildings from the 1950s, vegetation and auxiliary structures will give the platforms a traditional holiday appearance.
New Jersey/New Sculpture
Morris Museum, Morristown
Wednesdays – Sundays, through February 2, 2025
Eleven sculptors who worked with malleable aluminum, cold-worked glass, and industrial robotics join the more traditional media of ceramics, forged iron, and steel in this exhibit that showcases 40 works based on The Garden State.
Nature-Infused Yoga
In person at the Schermann Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, Bernardsville
Or virtual via Zoom
Saturdays, through February 22, 2025
Yoga teacher Kristin Mylecraine will show how yoga is a great way to relax, find inner connection, and increase flexibility and strength. Explore the connections between yoga and nature in this 75-minute class.
Morven Revealed: Untold Stories From New Jersey’s Most Historic Home
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
Wednesdays – Sundays, through March 2, 2025
This special exhibit is part of Morven’s 20th-anniversary celebration and will shed light on lesser-known stories of this historic home and its residents. You’ll see rarely-seen objects and newly discovered photos about American life: childhood, hosting guests, pets, fashion, and more.
Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
Bryant Park, New York City
Through March 2, 2025
This Manhattan park is home to the largest free-admission ice skating rink in NYC. Relax rinkside at The Lodge, where you can get food and drinks 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.
Winery Weekend Music Series
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
Saturdays – Sundays, through March 30, 2025
Weather permitting, you can sit in the historic apple orchard. During cooler weather, seating is inside the wine barn with firepits, outdoor heaters, and hot mulled wine. Tasting flights of Terhune wines are available. All ages can have fun with s’mores and hot cocoa kits. The Barn Door Café will serve lunch. Live music is performed from 1-4 pm.
Curious George: Let’s Get Curious! Exhibit
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Through May 4, 2025
There are a series of immersive zones that let kids go on George’s adventures in the city, on the farm and in outer space. The exhibit includes the operation of wheels and pulleys, three holes of mini golf, a space rocket, a sidewalk produce stand, a vacation in the country, a farm visit, a city park playset, a busy wall, and a museum that has the original manuscript.
Slow Motion
Grounds For Sculpture, Hamilton
Through September 1, 2025
Five artists from Monument Lab in Philadelphia created gigantic, creative, introspective monuments that will be on display for their beauty, but also to address political, cultural and social issues.
Hometown Pride: The Power of Sports in Middlesex County
Cornelius Low House Museum, Piscataway
Select dates, through December 31, 2025
Middlesex County’s sports connections include the first-ever college football game played between Rutgers University and Princeton University and professional athletes and Olympians, Paralympians, and Special Olympians. The exhibit features items from Rutgers University, Middlesex College, several high schools, and individuals. 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.
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