Christmas and Hannukah are almost here and there are plenty of fun ways to spend the weekend!
WEEKEND
Chanukah LEGO Night
Temple Sholom, Scotch Plains
Thursday
Play with one of the largest collections of LEGOs in Scotch Plains. You are welcome to build as many LEGO creations as you’d like. There will be dreidel games, Chanukah music, a menorah lighting, and meetings with the Sholom family.
Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa Parade
Haddonfield
Thursday – Friday
Winter festivities include Candlelight Shopping on Fridays through December 20 (which includes carolers, live music, visits with Mrs. Claus and Yuletide at the Museum.
Holiday Lights Hayride
Norz Hill Farm
Thursday – Sunday
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.
North Pole Experience
Harbaugh Village, Mullica Hill
Thursday – Sunday
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 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
Thursday – Monday
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
Thursday – Monday
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
Thursday – Monday
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
Thursday – Monday
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
Thursday – Tuesday
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
Thursday – Tuesday
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
Thursday – Tuesday
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
Thursday – Tuesday
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
Thursday – Tuesday
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
Thursday – Tuesday
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
Thursday – Tuesday
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
Thursday – Tuesday
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
Thursday – Tuesday
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
Thursday – Tuesday
Take a train ride through American Dream aboard Geoffrey’s Express.
Marlin Christmas Wonderland
1326 Laurel Ave., Sea Girt
Thursday – Wednesday
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
Thursday – Wednesday
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.
New Jersey Symphony Handel’s Messiah
Friday in Princeton
Saturday in Princeton
Sunday at Cathedral Basilica in Newark
“Lift Up Your Heads” and the “Hallelujah Chorus” are presented by New Jersey Symphony and Montclair State University Singers.
Holiday Concert
Music Mountain Theatre, Lambertville
Friday – Sunday
This yearly tradition is a concert played live by a 17-piece big band in the style of Mariah Carey, Rosemary Clooney, Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, and other holiday singers.
Christmas Festival
Morristown Green, Morristown
Friday – Sunday
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.
The Nutcracker
State Theatre New Jersey, New Brunswick
Friday – Sunday
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.
Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar
Grand Arcade at Convention Hall and Asbury Hotel, Asbury Park
Friday – Sunday
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.
Night Owl Holiday Markets
Highland Park
Saturday – Sunday
The last weekend of festivities include a holiday gift market with local crafters, artisans and food vendors, live music from local performers, free festive arts and crafts, a Santa letter writing station, and visits from Santa.
Flounder’s Kringle Market
Carriage Farm / Flounder’s Brewing Co., Hillsborough
Saturday – Sunday
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
Saturday – Sunday
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).
Wildwood Winter Wonderland
Holly Beach Park, Wildwood
Saturday – Sunday
The highlight of the weekend is the holiday lights show.
Small Business Weekend
Main Street, Highland Park
Saturday – Sunday
The festivities will include Night Owl Holiday Craft Markets with local crafters, artisans, and food vendors, a gingerbread house contest, and caroling with the Highland Park Community Chorus.
Red Mill Village Festival of Trees
Red Mill Village, Clinton
Saturday – Sunday
See beautifully decorated Christmas trees and other holiday decor throughout the village.
Holiday Spectacular Christmas & Train Display
InfoAge Science and History Museums, Wall Twp.
Saturday – Sunday
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.
FRIDAY
Christmas Pajama Party
Play Big Zone, Morganville
Kids should wear their coziest PJs and bring their favorite blanket to relax with holiday movies, unlimited play cards, Christmas cookies, a hot chocolate bar with toppings, and cupcake decorating in a festive wonderland.
Let’s Sing Taylor
Wellmont Theater, Montclair
A live band will play Taylor Swift’s hits in the ultimate fan band tribute.
Classics and Carols Concert
Community Middle School, West Windsor
The Princeton Symphonic Brass concert will feature carols, Christmas classics, Hanukkah music, and a sing-along.
Valentina
Westfield Garden State Plaza, Paramus
The French pop star will sing songs of the season in French and English.
Kwanzaa Awareness & Celebration
ATAP Foundation, Willingboro
Students will have the opportunity to explore Kwanzaa through the sounds and rhythms of African heritage. Dinner is provided by Smokin Rev & Lady Q’s BBQ.
MARK WEISS / Trans Siberian Orchestra
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Prudential Center, Newark
The multi-platinum rock group’s 2024 tour marks a triple celebration: 20 years of their beloved rock opera “The Lost Christmas Eve,” reaching their 20 millionth concertgoer, and surpassing $20 million donated to charity.
Live Nativity and Christmas Village
Ranch Hope and Municipal Building, Alloway Twp.
The live nativity at Ranch Hope’s Alloway campus includes a drive-thru nativity scenes with live animals from 6-8 pm. The Christmas Village from 5-9 pm at the Alloway Township Municipal Building includes Santa, food, vendors and more.
Yuletide at the Museum
Indian King Tavern Museum, Haddonfield
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.
SATURDAY
Kwanzaa Family Festival
NJPAC, Newark
Each event and activity embodies one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Activities include dance and drumming classes, face painting, storytelling, child-friendly arts and crafts workshops, a Kwanzaa candle-lighting ceremony, a Vibunzi — a tradition of honoring young people with an ear of corn (or in this case, a slice of cornbread) to represent the hope for the future they bring — and a Kwanzaa Artisan Marketplace.
Pizza & PJ’s With Santa
Casino Pier Arcade, Seaside Heights
Wear cozy pajamas for a holiday lunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus. There will be storytime and photo ops.
Christmas Craft Class
Laurita Winery, New Egypt
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.
Reindeer Run 5K
Renault Winery & Resort, Egg Harbor Twp.
Bring your youngest runners for the Kids 1 Mile Fun Run, and the older elves in the group can sip on wine after the run.
Festivus
Peterson Park, Metuchen
‘Twas the Weekend Before Christmas festivities include the airing of grievances, the Festivus Pole and the Feats of Strength.
Selfies with Santa & Mrs. Claus
New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, New Brunswick
Celebrate the holidays with free photos, holiday arts and crafts, gingerbread houses, holiday music, face painting, and hot chocolate and marshmallows.
Angry Birds: Holiday Party
Angry Birds, American Dream, East Rutherford
Celebrate the holidays with Red the Angry Bird and win prizes for a hole-in-one, while working on arts and crafts projects and enjoying face painting and balloon artists.
Holiday Pottery Painting Party
ACANJ, Denville
The whole family can come for a creative afternoon, painting a pottery piece, playing games and taking part in a dance party.
Countdown to Christmas, a Shopping Extravaganza
St. Jude of Hopatcong, Hopatcong
Finish up your holiday shopping while supporting 50+ local businesses.
Winter Solstice Walk
Tulpehaking Nature Center, Hamilton Twp.
On the first day of winter, which is also the shortest day of the year, take an afternoon walk with the kids, then warm up with hot chocolate inside the Nature Center.
Ocean’s Holiday Village
Ocean Casino Resort, Atlantic City
The Shops at the Row offer holiday pop-up shops.
Holiday Pottery Painting Fundraiser
All Children’s Art Center, Denville
Families can paint pottery pieces together as a fundraiser for ACACNJ.
McDonald’s Winter Wonderland With Santa
McDonald’s, South Amboy
Visit the fully Christmas adorned restaurant, take photos with Santa Claus, and enjoy holiday goodies.
Winter Woodpecker Wander
Hawk Rise Sanctuary, Linden
Angus Macaulay, a NJ Audubon Teacher Naturalist, will lead you on a walk along the trails so you can look for several woodpecker species that live in the area.
Dickens Village
Maplewood
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.
SUNDAY
Holiday Flea Market & Gift Fair
Wayne PAL, Wayne
Christmas shoppers who are looking for gift ideas can choose from crafts, new items and collectibles.
Forces of Nature Dance Theatre
NJPAC, Newark
This annual Kwanzaa celebration combines traditional West African dance with hip hop, modern dance and martial arts, plus lots of dancers and drummers.
Downtown Red Bank Ice Carving Experience
Red Bank
As part of the weekend before Christmas festivities, watch a live ice carving demo.
Characters of the Dream Parade
Court A, American Dream, East Rutherford
Watch your favorite American Dream characters parade throughout the center and take pictures alongside your favorite friends.
Winter Hayrides
Cherry Grove Farm, Lawrenceville
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.
Snack, Snap, n’ Paint Class
TiLT, American Dream, East Rutherford
Enjoy themed artistry days, creating your own turkey or holiday card.
Downtown Ice Carving Experience & Treat Trail
Edmund Wilson Plaza, Broad Street, Monmouth Street
A professional ice carver will take giant chunks of ice, use a chainsaw and chisels, and create masterpieces out of the giant pieces of ice. He plans to create a snowman, a snowflake and an ice sculpture of the giant clock on Broad Street.
Holiday Hoops
American Dream, East Rutherford
WNBA champion Nyara Sabally will help kids ages 8 to 14 improve their skills during a basketball experience.
Santa With Alpacas
Bluebird Alpaca Farm, Peapack
Make a reservation to pet and feed the alpacas. You can also take a selfie with Santa and the animals.
Breakfast with Santa
Seaview Hotel and Golf Club, Galloway
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
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. This is the final weekend of the Winter Wonderland tours.
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 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.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
New Brunswick
December 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.
Sea of Lights Holiday Lights Spectacular
Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Pt. Pleasant
December 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.
Broadway for the Holidays
Grunin Center for the Arts, Toms River
Select dates, through December 22
Broadway mixes with the holiday season during this concert.
Winter Fresh Farmers Market
Jersey Shore Arts Center, Ocean Grove
Sundays, December 22, January 12 and 26, February 9 and 23, March 9 and 23
Shop from your favorite Asbury Fresh market vendors all winter long.
Maccabee Bar
Saint Tuesday, New York, NY
December 23 – January 4, 2025
The Hanukkah pop-up bar has drinks like the Latke Sour and Ocho Kandelikas that you can drink while eating potato pancakes. There’s lots of fun blue and gold holiday decor.
Chanukah 2024 With Chabad
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.
The Nutcracker
Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown
Through December 26
This version of performances features the New Jersey Ballet with music by New Jersey Symphony Orchestra.
Kwanzaa Festivities
Throughout Paterson
December 26 – January 1, 2025
Hosted by Word Seed Inc., in collaboration with different community organizations, a range of cultural events, educational workshops and inspiring performances are planned throughout the week. Events include libation ceremonies to honor ancestors and set the intention for the day, guest speakers about the seven Kwanzaa principles, cultural performances, interactive workshops, interfaith prayer services, and a finale Harambee ceremony on January 1.
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.
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.
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.
Outdoor Ice Skating
Veterans Park, North Brunswick
Fridays, through 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.
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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