Take the kids to see Santa, get a ticket to a handbell concert, celebrate a Filipino Christmas, or laugh out loud during a Jewish comedy night. Here’s our lineup of the best weekend fun. Be sure to confirm each event before heading out.
WEEKEND
Holiday MarketSPACE
550 Broad St., Newark
Thursday – Friday
Holiday MarketSPACE is a two-night holiday event tailored towards supporting Newark’s local communities and businesses. This event presented by Equal Space will showcase a diverse array of local vendors, each specializing in handmade crafts, fashion, self-care, home decor, and more. You’ll be serenaded by live holiday music while you enjoy hot chocolate and Coquito stations. Open to all ages.
Handel’s Messiah
Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Newark
Friday and Sunday
Nicholas McGegan will conduct Handel’s incomparable classic “Messiah” as performed by The New Jersey Symphony. Joining the musicians will be the talented singers of Montclair State University, who will sing the glorious “Hallelujah Chorus.”
Pop-Up Holiday Art Sale
The Center for Contemporary Art, Bedminster
Friday – Saturday
There will be a variety of 2D and 3D works of art by more than 25 artists for sale.
Holiday Lights Hayride
Norz Hill Farm, Hillsborough
Friday – Sunday
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.
Drumthwacket Holiday Open Houses
Drumthwacket, Princeton
Friday – Sunday
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.
Klarna After Dark
Willowbrook Mall, Wayne
Friday – Sunday
Klarna will take over select malls across the country, bringing a spectacular “pink-out” celebration, including extended shopping hours, exclusive merchant deals and a pink light installation to guide shoppers to free gift-wrapping stations. You’ll be treated to free snacks and beverages while you wait for your gifts to be wrapped. After shopping is done, you can catch a free ride back to your car using Klarna Kab.
Christmas Festival
Morristown Green, Morristown
Friday – Sunday
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.
A Christmas Carol
Broadway Theatre, Pitman
Friday – Sunday
Ebenezer Scrooge, with a “Bah! Humbug!” attitude, will receive visits from three ghosts on Christmas Eve who lead him through his Past, Present and Future.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
Hyatt Regency, New Brunswick
Friday – Sunday
If you stop by the hotel to take out their new sleeping rooms, you’ll be able to take a horse-and-carriage ride with your family throughout the streets of New Brunswick.
The Nutcracker
Sitnik Theatre, Hackettstown
Friday – Sunday
This version of the holiday classic stars young dancers from the New Jersey Civic Youth Ballet, Warren County’s only non-profit ballet company, as well as professional dancers from around the world.
ELF: The Musical
Algonquin Arts Theatre, Manasquan
Friday – Sunday
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.
The Polar Express Train
Friday – Sunday
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.
Snowman Splash Holiday Party
Five Star Swim School
Saturday: Deptford and East Hanover
Sunday: Eatontown, Galloway and Lehigh Valley (PA)
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.
Ella Enchanted
The Growing Stage – The Children’s Theatre of NJ, Netcong
Saturday – Sunday
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.
Holiday Bazaars
Grand Arcade of Convention Hall, Asbury Park
The Asbury Hotel, Asbury Park
Whitechapel Projects, Long Branch
Saturday – Sunday
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.
Brunch With Santa
Alstede Farms, Chester
Saturday – Sunday
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.
Holiday Events
The Historic Village of Allaire, Wall Twp.
Saturday – Sunday
Take a rare, self-guided tour through Allaire Village at night as candles and lights illuminate the village. Or, take a traditional Christmas Lantern Tour that leads you through 19th-century Christmas traditions. Christmas at Allaire celebrates the traditions of Christmas past along with a visit with Santa.
The Express Train to the North Pole
Broadway Theatre, Pitman
Saturday – Sunday
It’s Christmas Eve, and the Express Train is making some surprise stops along the way to the North Pole. See what happens when the Christmas Conductor invites Jeremy to take a ride on the train to make him a believer in all things Christmas.
FRIDAY
Taylor’s Version: A Swiftie Dance Party
White Eagle Hall, Jersey City
A DJ will play Taylor Swift tunes all night during this dance party for adults 18 and older.
Nutcracker Storytime
Museum of Early Trades and Crafts, Madison
Young author and ballerina Charlotte Nebres will read her book “Charlotte and the Nutcracker: The True Story of a Girl Who Made Ballet History.” Charlotte and her sister Libby will then lead the children in a ballet demo.
Movie Night
Five Star Swim School, Eatontown
Bring the kids for an hour of swimming, and then they can change into PJs and cozy up with a sleeping bag or blanket to watch “The Polar Express.”
Downtown Somerville Holiday Jubilee
Downtown Somerville
Walk along Main Street and Division Street and listen to holiday music, go ice skating, meet characters from Disney’s “Frozen,” listen to carolers, snack on free hot cocoa and cookies, take a free carriage ride, and take photos with Santa.
Crystal Gayle: A Crystal Christmas
The Newton Theatre, Newton
The Grammy-winning country music icon will sing her hits like “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue,” “Ready for the Times to Get Better” and “Talking in Your Sleep” in addition to Christmas classics such as “The Christmas Song,” “Silver Bells,” “Winter Wonderland” and “Silent Night,”
Nefesh Mountain: Love and Light Tour
South Orange Performing Arts Center, South Orange
This New York-based progressive Bluegrass band combines elements of everything from Americana and Appalachian Bluegrass to Celtic Folk and Eastern European melodies, with messages of inclusivity, diversity, and hope for our ever-changing world.
Let Us Celebrate! An Evening of Holiday Favorites and Music from Around the World
St. Andrew’s Church, Avenel
This is the 15th-anniversary edition of the Woodbridge Community Choir’s Winter Concert.
Friday Nights at Dragon Village
The Shoppes at Dragon Village, Bridgeton
Storytime at the Shops is just one of the special activities planned for families while they shop.
Holiday Concert
Edison Intermediate School Auditorium, Edison
The Westfield Community Concert Band welcomes the Edison Intermediate School Broadway Singers; and Union County music educator, actor and vocalist Kerry Stubbs to narrate “The Night Before Christmas” while the band plays classical, traditional and contemporary holiday songs.
SATURDAY
Pasko in America
American Dream, East Rutherford
Fiesta in America presents a Filipino Christmas fest. There will be a lantern parade, unique products, Filipino food and stars from Brodway’s “Here Lies Love.”
“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. There will be singing and dancing with the princesses, storytime, photos, and snacks.
SantaCon Seaside Heights
Ocean Boulevard, Seaside Heights
Dress in your best Santa suit (or elf, reindeer or even dreidel gear) for this huge Christmas convention. Note: this is not a bar crawl.
Naughty or Nice Tour: Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl
Mays Landing
The Rotary Club of Mays Landing-Egg Harbor City will put on an ugly sweater bar crawl.
Winter Fest
XL Sports World, Cherry Hill
There will be a fun zone, bounce house, roller skating, open turf play, games, prizes, food and drinks, pictures with Santa and cookie decorating kits.
Sensory-Friendly Winter Wonderland
Bierman Autism Centers, Eatontown
This sensory-friendly holiday soirée will include winter-themed photo boots, pictures with Santa and treats.
Reindeer Run 5K
Renault Winery, Egg Harbor City
After you race, relax at Vintner Wonderland, which has an ice skating rink, warm winter drinks, and Storytime with Santa.
The Frightmare Before Christmas
Asbury Lanes, Asbury Park
A holiday magic show with Shock Illusionist Dan Sperry and The Great Deceiver Albert Cadabra will include a DJ Dance party with special guests.
Flounder’s Annual Kringle Market
Flounder Brewing Company at Carriage Farm, Hillsborough
As you wander the market, listen to the sounds of Flounder’s Brass Band playing nostalgic classics. Look out for Mr. & Mrs. Claus as they stroll through the market before heading to the brewhouse for free pictures. You can find fresh wreaths, garlands, and trees at Central Jersey Nurseries’ tree lot.
Grown Up And Me Felt Christman Ornament Making Workshop
Galastella Studio, Hoboken
Parents or guardians will join their kids ages 7-12 to make an ornament for the tree.
An Olde English Christmas
Carteret Performing Arts and Events Center, Carteret
The iconic English ’60s beat band Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone will play Christmas tunes and the band’s classic hits.
Holiday Hot Chocolate Bomb-Making Workshop
The Eclectic Chic Boutique, Montclair
Learn how to make your own hot chocolate bombs from scratch, including how to temper chocolate, mold the chocolate shells, and fill them with your favorite hot chocolate mix and marshmallows.
Hoboken SantaCon
Throughout Hoboken
Adults dress like Santa (or his friends) and bar hop throughout town. Sites include Madd Hatter, The Shannon, Willie McBrides, The Shepherd & The Knucklehead, Mikie Squared, The Ainsworth, The Ferryman and Pilsener Haus.
Dickens Village
Ricalton Square, Maplewood
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, tree lighting and a menorah lighting, horse and wagon rides, kids’ crafts, and a petting farm (Dec. 9 and 16 only).
Holiday Activities
Easton Farmers’ Market, Easton, PA
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.
Get The Led Out
Strand Theater, Lakewood
You will hear songs from Led Zeppelin just like you remembered them.
Winterfest
Historic Smithville Park, Smithville
You will find wandering carolers dressed in Victorian attire, holiday activities for all ages, live entertainment, a wine and mulled cider tent, a Holiday Marketplace, ice skating, ice carving, art exhibits, and a visit with Victorian Santa.
SO Jewish Comedy Night
South Orange Performing Arts Center, South Orange
This lighthearted celebration of the holiday season is an experience of a Jewish-themed comedy night by Liz Glazer and Judy Gold.
2023 Holiday House Tour
Plainfield
This tour will feature 10 historic properties among five unique historic districts that are filled with holiday décor and original architectural details.
Holiday POPS!
Richardson Auditorium, Princeton
Vocalist Morgan James and the Princeton Symphony Orchestra perform holiday favorites, while the Princeton High School Choir carries a traditional carol sing-along.
Ugly Sweater Brunch
Carnegie Diner & Secaucus Cafe, Secaucus
Put on your most outrageous and humorous sweater for a chance to win a $100 gift card during brunch.
Saturday Winter Walk
Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, Bernardsville
A guided two-mile nature hike by members of the New Jersey Audubon Society lets you enjoy the trees, birds and plant life in the sanctuary. The next dates are January 20, February 17 and March 16.
Holiday Kids Night Out
Animal Welfare Association, Voorhees Twp.
Drop off your little animal lover so they can make a craft, participate in different activity stations and visit with the animals – while you have a few hours to yourself. Open to kids ages 7-13.
Sugar Plum Story Time
Bridgewater Public Library, Bridgewater
Join the Sugar Plum Fairy as she takes you on a journey through the magical Land of the Sweets with a reading, performance, and dance class given by professional dancers from Roxey Ballet.
Wreaths Across America
Finn’s Point National Cemetery, Pennsville
There will be wreath placements on the graves of veterans following a solemn ceremony by members of NJ0030 – DAR Salem County NJ Oak Tree Chapter.
Heritage Trees
The William Trent House Museum, Trenton
The Trent House Association will host a display of lighted trees decorated by six Trenton area organizations on the theme of their heritage and contributions. There will be a special tree lighting ceremony at 6 pm.
Jesse Garron’s Tribute: The Closest Thing to The King
The LeVoy Theatre, Millville
Tribute artist Jesse Garron takes audiences on a journey into the concert years when Elvis Presley was The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Soldiers Christmas
Fort Mott State Park, Pennsville
Learn what the holidays were like for those in the military over the years. You will wander around the fortifications seeing more than a hundred re-enactors interpreting many interesting and unique eras from the Roman Era to the Cold War.
Downtown Caroling
Metuchen
Join the Metuchen Downtown Alliance and Rise Up Chorus (a non-denominational community choral group) for the annual Downtown Caroling.
Love It or List It Gingerbread House
Metuchen
The annual gingerbread house contest has a “love it or list it” theme. Join the fun and submit an entry for you or your business to showcase your talents.
Urban GLŌ Grand Opening
Urban GLŌ, Union
Join founder Salimah Scott to celebrate the grand opening of the brand’s first-ever brick-and-mortar store.
Holiday Pop-Up
Two River Theater, Red Bank
There will be live music, hot cocoa, crafts, kids’ activities, local vendors and artisans – all open to the public, and all free.
SUNDAY
Brunch With Santa
MJ’s Restaurant, Bar & Grill, Matawan
The weekly Sunday brunch gets an upgrade because these weeks you’ll get to take pictures with Santa.
Finger-Knit Chunky Blanket Making Workshop
Eclectic Chic Boutique, Montclair
You will learn the basics of finger knitting and how to make a chunky blanket. You will also learn about different how to choose the right yarn for your blanket.
Handmade Holiday
The Woodland, Maplewood
Shop for last-minute Christmas presents made by crafters and vendors.
Family Fun Football Sundays
Casino Pier, Seaside Heights
While the adults are watching NFL games, the kids can play in the arcade, get their face painted and meet special costumed characters.
Nature Created Candles
Echo Hill Park, Flemington
Start by learning about the trees that are in the forest and used as decoration during Christmastime. Then, try to capture their scent by making a candle to take home. The program is open to families with kids age 4 and older.
Sensory Sunday
Adventure Aquarium, Camden
This new program is part of the aquarium’s commitment to creating an inclusive, entertaining and educational experience for all guests, including anyone with autism or sensory sensitivities. There will be lower music and lighting as well as limited capacity.
Handmade Holiday
The Woodland, Maplewood
Shop for last-minute Christmas presents made by crafters and vendors.
Brunch with Santa
Chevys Tex Mex, Linden
There will be cookie decorating, ornament decorating, a tattoo station and pictures with Santa. Bring a gift for the Linden Town toy drive.
Breakfast with Santa
Forsgate Country Club, Monroe Twp.
Join Central Jersey Newspapers for a jolly morning of eating, sharing Christmas wishes and taking photos with Santa.
Silver Starlight Orchestra Holiday Concert
Ogden Auditorium, Chatham
Part of the Concerts on Main series, this family-friendly concert features the 17-piece Silver Starlite Orchestra playing Big Band, jazz and holiday classics from the ’30s and ’40s, as well as Elton John, Linda Ronstadt and more.
Santa Run
Boonton
The fire trucks will be coming through the neighborhood via air horns and sirens when Santa is close.
Literature at Play Workshop
Staten Island Children’s Museum, Staten Island, NY
The New York Children’s Theater Company designed the workshop for kids ages 3-8, which brings children’s literature to life through theater, music and movement.
Brunch With Santa
Carnegie Diner & Cafe Secaucus, Secaucus
Bring the whole family for a festive brunch so you can share your holiday wishes with Santa Claus.
Fall Forest Finale
Hawk Rise Sanctuary, Linden
As autumn becomes winter, join an NJ Audubon Teacher Naturalist for a morning walk to explore the forest.
Winter Wonderland With Santa
McDonald’s, South Amboy
Come inside the restaurant, which is decorated for Christmas. While you wait to take a picture with Santa, your kid will be able to color. They’ll get a Happy Meal toy and candy canes.
Holiday Brunch Buffet
Rat’s Restaurant, Hamilton
As part of the meal, you also get a free digital Winter Wonderland family portrait that will be taken in the photo op area.
The Calamari Sisters
The LeVoy Theatre, Millville
Delphine and Carmela have been crowned ambassadors for the Brooklyn Navy Yards, and have to bring the Bi-Annual Fishacopia Christmas Festival and Cock Fight to other cities. The Calamari Sisters’ new Christmas show is full of classic holiday songs and recipes.
Metuchen Cookie Walk
Metuchen High School, Metuchen
Residents will bake thousands of homemade cookies that are then sold at the walk.
Handmade Holiday at The Woodland
The Woodland, Maplewood
Shop local for pottery, folk art, handcrafted jewelry, embroidery, crocheted items and wearable art.
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 for a Christmas concert.
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.
Sea of Lights
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, Pt. Pleasant
December 16-17, 27-28
The winter wonderland includes treats, crafts, pictures with Santa (Dec. 9, 10, 16 and 17), games, Diving Santa (Dec. 27 and 28) and holiday entertainment (beginning at 5 pm each night). The aquarium, Sweet Shop, gift shop, pavilion and arcade will be open.
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.
Feast of the Seven Fishes
Nunzio by Chef Michael DeLone, Collingswood
December 20-30
Sit down for fine dining as you explore the Italian Christmas Eve tradition as you eat various courses of fish and seafood.
Celebrate the Holiday Season
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
Select dates, through December 23
Terhune Orchards turns into the North Pole with its special Winter Wonderland. Choose the perfect Christmas tree and wreath. Warm up by the bonfire with hot chocolate. S’mores kits and holiday cookie decorating kits will be available. Santa makes very special visits on December 9 and 17 and will take free pictures on his sleigh.
Christmas On The Farm
Acres at Magnolia, Farmingdale
Weekends, through December 23
The farm will be filled with Santa sightings, farm animals, wreaths and a variety of special events.
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.
North Pole Experience
Laurita Winery, New Egypt
Fridays – Sundays, through December 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.
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 Christmas Carol
McCarter Theatre Center, Princeton
Through December 24
Joel McKinnon Miller (Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Murphy Brown, Big Love) is cast as Scrooge in this year’s presentation of “A Christmas Carol.”
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; holiday-themed attractions at Nickelodeon Universe, Toys R Us and The Rink; and Spin to Win Thursdays and Fridays from 5-7 pm, and Saturdays from 1-3 pm, for great prizes.
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.
Festival of Trees
Environmental Education Center, Basking Ridge
Through December 28
Several rooms will be decorated with trees in a variety of themes. Note: the festival is closed Dec. 22-25.
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.
Phare Circus’ White Gold
Stage 42, New York, NY
Through December 30
The story is based on a book about Buddha’s life, and shows how the rice grain is important in Cambodian culture and commerce. The stage show is complete with acrobats and Cambodian circus acts.
GLOW! Light Show and The Dazzling District
217 Berlin-Cross Keys Rd., Washington Twp.
Through December 31
This lights display is epic – and so epic that the family moved it offsite from their house, and won an episode of The Great Christmas Lights Fight TV show this season! The video game-themed lights drive-through and walk-through also feature a 45-foot LED snowman, Ferris wheel, carnival games, food trucks and time with Santa.
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 to Remember
Crystal Springs Resort: Grand Cascades Lodge in Hamburg and Minerals Hotel in Verona
Through December 31
Activities include photos with goats, a live Nativity scene, gingerbread house decorating, mini tree decorating, ornament paint & sip, an elf scavenger hunt and dive-in holiday movies. Adults can hang out at Frosty’s Cantina, learn how to mix holiday drinks and take a tour of the massive wine cellar.
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.
Winter Wonderland For The Holidays
New Brunswick
Through December 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.
Coastal Holidays By The Sea
Pier Village, Long Branch
Select dates, through December 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.
Deck the Hall – Festival of Trees
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City
Through December 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
Through December 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.
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, 2024
The Rink and The Lodge, open through March 3, 2024
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
New Brunswick Performing Arts Center and Amboy Bank, New Brunswick
Through 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.
Historic Smithville & Village Green
Smithville
Through Jan. 6, 2024
This quaint South Jersey shopping town gets all decked out for the holidays with a talking Christmas tree and “dancing” trees on Lake Meone, plus a train ride, s’mores by the bonfire and tons of boutiques for shopping.
Newark Winter Village
Mulberry Commons Park, Newark
Wednesdays – Sundays, through January 7, 2024
Spend time on-ice go-karting, ice skating, playing carnival games, renting a heated private igloo or getting food from local vendors.
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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