The holiday season is in full swing, and we’ve got more than 210 festive events lined up this weekend alone!
WEEKEND
New Jersey Symphony The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert
Thursday at MPAC in Morristown
Friday at Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank
Saturday at NJPAC in Newark
Sunday at State Theatre New Jersey in New Brunswick
The New Jersey Symphony will perform the score while the movie plays on the big screen. In the film, The Muppets perform the Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale, with Kermit the Frog playing Bob Cratchit, Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge, and more of your favorite Muppet characters.
Winter Wonderland
New Brunswick
Thursday – Sunday
The tree lighting and Winter Wonderland Family Fun is Thursday. There will be music by Bobby Wilson, NGXB and The Paul Robeson Choir; more holiday music; an outdoor holiday movie; and letter writing to Santa. Ice skating on a synthetic surface will be December 5 to 7. The gingerbread house contest takes place over the weekend. An Evening With Chevy Chase & National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation takes place at The State Theatre on Thursday. The American Hungarian Foundation’s 36th annual Festival of Trees is Saturday, as is the Seasonal Traditions Holiday Program. Sunday includes The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert with New Jersey Symphony at the State Theatre; plus Mercado Esperanza Holiday Market & Christmas Tree Lighting.
Wildwoods Restaurant Week
The Wildwoods
Thursday – Sunday
A group of the Wildwoods’ top restaurants will offer a complete three-course prix fixe menu for $40 per person, plus tax and gratuity.
Holiday Wreath Making Workshop
Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, Bernardsville
Thursday, Friday and Sunday
Using fresh evergreens, teens and adults will create a handcrafted holiday wreath using provided materials or special decorations they bring from home. There will be hot cider, hot chocolate and other goodies to munch on while you work. During the workshop, you will learn how to identify common evergreen trees by their leaves and cones.
Digging the Whole
Brookdale Community College, Lincroft
Thursday – Sunday
Recommended for kids ages 4-10, this 50-minute show allows them to engage fully by sitting on the floor around the stage and becoming part of the jury. “Digging The Whole” tells the tale of Slag Heap, whose tranquil life is interrupted when he’s visited by Raccoon, Deer, Owl, and Oak Tree, who accuse him of crimes against nature. The animals act as judge, prosecutor, bailiff and court clerk, while the audience is called to serve as the jury.
Creative Women’s Showcase
The Center for Contemporary Art, Bedminster
Thursday – Sunday
Exhibiting artists from the Somerset County area will showcase their work in mixed media, pastels, acrylic, photography, and more.
Decorating for Festival of Trees
Frelinghuysen Arboretum, Morristown
Friday – Saturday
Scouts, families, groups, schools, floral designers, garden club members and individuals are invited to decorate a Christmas tree for the annual display.
Winter Wonderland
Kuser Park, Hamilton Twp.
Friday – Saturday
This year’s Candyland-themed celebration with has a tree lighting (on Friday), photos with Santa, DIY magic reindeer food, a stroll through Candy Lane Cottage, free candy, a gingerbread bounce house, firepits, holiday rides, tours of Kuser Mansion, a model railroad, holiday music and themed displays.
Colonial Christmas
Jacobus Vanderveer House & Museum, Bedminster
Friday – Saturday
The Christmas traditions date back to the 1770s. Three days of celebrating include a tree lighting, music, period decorations, holiday shopping, pony rides, visits with Santa and gingerbread workshops.
Drive Through the Christmas Story
Sayre Woods Bible Church, Old Bridge
Friday – Saturday
See and hear the story of the birth of Jesus from the comfort of your car.
Hasbro’s Toyland
High Line at Chelsea Market Passage, New York, NY
Friday – Sunday
A Hasbro Product Showcase is the highlight of Toyland, where kids can play with toys from Baby Alive, Beyblade, Furby, Hasbro Gaming, Monopoly, My Little Pony, Nerf, Transformers, Peppa Pig, Mr. Potato Head and Play-Doh. There will be photo ops with Hasbro characters, like Peppa Pig, Izzy Moonbow, Sunny Starscout, and Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head along with Santa.
The Nutcracker
Voorhees Middle School Theatre, Voorhees
Friday – Sunday
There are four performances scheduled, including a sensory-friendly show on Saturday. Join Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy on Saturday for the Sugar Plum Fairy Tea; a separate ticket is required.
Weihnachtsmarkt German Christmas Market of NJ
Sussex County Fairgrounds, Augusta
Friday – Sunday
Expect a market with lots of entertainment on the schedule. There is a carousel, pony rides, wagon rides, a petting zoo, Santa in the courtyard, and Mrs. Claus with her elf
Krampus Asbury Park Festival
Paranormal Museum, Asbury Park
Friday – Sunday
The festivities begin on Friday with pictures with Krampus and Yeti, followed by the Krampus Asbury Park Film Festival, a cinematic showcase celebrating the mythical creature and his lore. Saturday brings a lively street fair featuring local vendors, the Monsters of Yule tour, a dramatic reading of the Naughty List and contests. The weekend concludes on Sunday with a festive brunch with Krampus.
Winter Village
Red Mill Museum Village, Clinton
Friday – Sunday
This six-day outdoor, tented and heated, winter craft market includes over 50 local craft artisans, activities, food trucks, the Festival of Trees, and tours of the 12 historic buildings on the grounds. Just Jeff will perform holiday classics at this winter wonderland on Friday.
The Nutcracker
Bergen Performing Arts Center, Englewood
Saturday – Sunday
NJ Ballet’s Nutcracker tells the magical story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they battle toy soldiers and larger-than-life mice, and travel through a whirlwind of dancing snowflakes to the Land of Sweets. The 1 pm show on December 8 is sensory-friendly.
Santa at Twin Maples
Twin Maples Estate, Summit
Saturday – Sunday
Plan a morning breakfast with Santa, or come later on for storytime with the man in red.
Festival of Trees
Reeves-Reed Arboretum, Summit
Saturday – Sunday
On Sunday, vote for your favorite tree that is decorated throughout the grounds of the arboretum. Family-friendly activities include crafts, games and stories to celebrate the season of light, as well as Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, Christmas and the Winter Solstice. Enjoy photos and visits with Santa Claus, a winter-themed scavenger hunt, and a woodland story trail. Local choral groups including the Summit High School Chorus and The Larks, as well as BOLD Arts dance students, will provide music and entertainment. Shop for unique holiday gifts at the onsite holiday market. On Saturday night, adults 21+ can get a sneak peek during the Festival of Trees Preview Cocktail Party, where you can take a winter walk and go inside the historic Wisner House for holiday cocktails and desserts.
Holidays at Gorgeous Goat
Gorgeous Goat Creamery, Stockton
Saturday – Sunday
Meet the goats and shop for handmade holiday gifts on November 29 and December 1. Kids can join the goats in making winter- and holiday-themed greeting cards and ornaments on December 7. Create a handmade, lighted centerpiece on December 8.
Bank of America Museums on Us Weekend
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Hunterdon Art Museum, Clinton
Montclair Art Museum, Montclair
Morris Museum, Morristown
The Newark Museum of Art, Newark
Saturday – Sunday
Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center, MillvilleBank of America, Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank cardholders can receive free general admission to six cultural attractions on the first full weekend of each month.
Willows Wonderland
Fosterfields Living Historical Farm, Morristown
Tour The Willows mansion decorated for different decades of Christmas, talk to costumed interpreters, watch a woodstove cooking demonstration, create a holiday craft, take a wagon ride, meet the animals in the barnyard, and take your picture with Santa.
Return of the Holiday Tenors
Saturday: The Presbyterian Church, Westfield
Sunday: The Concert Hall at Drew University, Madison
The New Jersey Festival Orchestra performs music from traditional to pops, and choral favorites to Broadway classics, in a holiday concert.
Renaissance Christmas
The Shoppes at Dragon Village, Bridgeton
Saturday – Sunday
The Mystic Realms Theater Club will perform skits and musical numbers during this weekend festival. The king and queen, along with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, will make their rounds. There will be vendors, merchants and food trucks.
Wallabout Winter Wonderland Pop-Up Holiday Market
Building 293, Brooklyn, NY
Saturday – Sunday
Aside from the market with over 200 local vendors offering a mix of clothing and accessories, home décor, health and beauty products, food and beverages – with a focus on minority- and women-owned businesses – there are family-friendly activities including the Next Generation youth vendor section, The Family Corner, free cookie decorating, holiday card making, LEGO adventures, and book giveaways.
FRIDAY
Woodstown by Candlelight
Woodstown
Start your adventure at the Creekside Inn Pavilion where you can meet Santa, eat and drink, shop local crafters, and listen to live music in the Pavilion. You can take a Jitney from Creekside to any of seven different locations throughout Woodstown during the night. Events include historic home tours, live musical performances, live nativity, a horse-drawn carriage, a holiday market and even a town crier.
TD Bank Tree Lighting & Winter Festival
TD University, Mt. Laurel
The 35th annual event includes free photos with Santa, holiday crafts, treats, festive photo ops, a DJ, games and prizes.
Christmas Parade
Downtown Cape May Court House
Line the streets in Middle Twp. to see your favorite Christmas characters walk and roll by.
Downtown for the Holidays
Ridgewood
Downtown for the Holidays includes music, performances, a visit by Santa, and the tree lighting ceremony.
Christmas Parade
Asbury Avenue, Ocean City
There will be walking units, floats, musical acts, cars and cheer/dance teams taking part in the festivities.
Free First Friday: Gift Wrapping Workshop
Eclectic Chic Boutique, Monclair
Learn the art of gift wrapping during this free activity. Bring your own small gift to practice your wrapping skills. The studio will provide some decorating materials, but you can bring your own dried flowers, buttons, ribbons, or other items for a more personalized touch.
Jupiter and the Galilean Moons
Hoffman Park, Hampton
Gaze at the stars, see some of the season’s constellations and focus your eyes through the scope at Jupiter and the four Galilean moons. You’ll also hear some myths and stories that go along with the moons.
Christmas in Court House
Middle Twp.
There will be a parade along Route 9 leading to the tree lighting and performances by the library. The festival at Town Hall includes craft vendors, food vendors and snacks. You can also visit the firehouse for more snacks and a visit with Santa Claus.
Boro in Lights
Glassboro
As Santa arrives to light the tree, there will be performances, a live Nativity scene with Missio Dei Church, a petting zoo, carriage rides along Rowan Boulevard, selfie stations, meet-and-greets with costumed characters, a working model train display inside RCSJ’s Welcome Center, cookie decorating with Cookie Munchers, food trucks and a vendors market.
Multilingual Book Fair
Tessa International School, Hoboken
Add books in English, Spanish, French and Mandarin from Scholastic, BeCurio and Villa Albertine to your home library. There will be different genres and age-appropriate books, from children’s stories to educational reads.
Mini Holiday Market & Hayrides
Cherry Grove Farm, Lawrenceville
There will be glass blowing demos, artists and crafters, ornaments and cards, gifts for home and body, Christmas trees and wreaths, and more fun on the farm. Come back for free winter hayrides on December 14 and 22.
Christmas Parade
Clinton
The Guild of Clinton hosts this annual parade beginning at 7 pm.
Greater Wildwood Jaycees Christmas Parade
Central Avenue, North Wildwood Recreation Center to Byrne Plaza
Awards will be announced for floats. Stay afterward as the decorated business lighting contest takes place.
A Holiday Homecoming
Lacey Township High School, Lanoka Harbor
The musical is centered around Andrew Davidson, a devoted father and military serviceman who is called to serve overseas. His children find themselves spending Christmas in the care of their loving grandparents, but with the recent loss of their mother and Andrew’s tour unexpectedly extended, this holiday season feels especially difficult. The second act brings to life a magical retelling of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.
&CO North Holiday Market
&CO North, Jersey City
You can shop local vendors, try food from local eateries, order festive drinks, and vibe to tunes from a live DJ.
First Fridays Series
Monument Square Park, New Brunswick
On the first Friday of the month, indulge in the arts and culture of Middlesex County with free food, live music and performances, games and activities, and arts and crafts.
SATURDAY
Winter Wonderland Festival
Papaianni Park, Edison
The festival celebrates the winter season with many family-friendly activities.
Bridgeton’s Annual Holiday Parade
Bridgeton
One of the area’s ongoing traditions is the holiday parade, which makes it way through the heart of the city. This year’s theme is “Christmas in Toyland.”
French American Holiday Market
French American Academy of Englewood, Englewood
This festive event will feature a variety of vendors offering foods, arts and crafts, vendor shopping, live performances, and engaging activities for all ages inside the “snow”-covered multi-purpose room. There will be a bounce castle, magic shows, interactive clay, knitting projects, baking, slime making stations. French holiday food staples include boeuf bourguignon, foie gras, salmon, baguettes and crepes by O’Cabanon, Patisserie Florentine, La Petite Bretagne and Cuisinery.
Breakfast With Shrek
Marcus Live! Bar & Grille, American Dream, East Rutherford
Sit down for a breakfast buffet while Shrek visits each table for a photo op.
Somers Point Christmas & Holiday Parade
Somers Point
If you have a marching group, float, truck, flatbed, landscape trailer, boat or any other vehicle you want to decorate with Christmas lights, trees, blowups and other decorations, sign up for the parade. Or, line the streets from Dawes Avenue School to Shore Road to City Hall and watch as they pass by.
Flapjacks With Frosty
Hopewell Valley Central High School, Pennington
Children spend the morning doing various winter crafts, playing games and listening to stories. Frosty the Snowman joins the children for a pancake breakfast and is available for winter-themed photo opportunities.
Tree Lighting
The Carousel Pavilion, Seaside Heights
The ceremony includes carousel rides, meetings with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and fireworks.
Victorian Holiday House & Inn Tour
Ocean Grove
Take a self-guided tour of the private homes, charming inns, community spaces and even a tent that are decorated for the holidays.
“A Christmas Carol”
Grunin Center for the Arts, Toms River
Yates Musical Theatre for Children puts on a musical adaptation of the classic.
Ventnor City Twilight Holiday Parade
Ventnor Avenue, Ventnor
There will marching bands, fire trucks, floats, classic cars, Santa and Mrs. Claus in the parade. After the parade, stick around for food trucks and a holiday market along Weymouth and Ventnor avenues. Santa will be at the Ventnor Square Theater along with a balloon artist, face painting and a prize wheel.
Victorian House Tour
Ocean Grove
You’ll feel like you’re in a Hallmark movie as you wander through the beautiful Victorian homes and inns that will be decorated for Christmas. Expect caroling, holiday exhibits and gift boutiques.
North Wilwood Holiday Tree Lighting
Hereford Inlet Lighthouse Courtyard, North Wildwood
The Christmas tree lighting event includes holiday music by Margaret Mace School Choir, snacks, a self-guided tour of the lighthouse, and visits with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.
Deck the Halls
Macculloch Hall and Acorn Hall, Morristown
The event features live holiday music on Acorn Hall’s 1873 Chickering grand piano and showcases Thomas Nast’s most famous Christmas scenes at Macculloch Hall.
Santa’s Classic Car Parade
Universal Technical Institute, Bloomfield
Santa, along with his pals at the Bloomfield Cruisers, will lead an 18-mile Parade of Cars throughout the streets of Bloomfield.
Christmas on the Farm
Howell Living History Farm, Hopewell Twp.
Santa is coming to Howell Farm – not in a sleigh, but on a steam tractor. There will be Christmas crafts (including a paper Victorian angel ornament project), live music from Jugtown Mountain String Band, farm animal visits, selfies in an 1800s sleigh, demos by a blacksmith, and an opportunity to stroll through a decorated historic farmhouse.
Shoreline Vintage Holiday Market
Shoreline Vintage & Antiques, Richland
There will be multiple vendors selling vintage holiday decor, antiques, arts & crafts, candles, baked goods and more. The Crazy Ladies Coffee Cart will be back. Woodland Whiskers will set up with some kitties to pet or possibly adopt. Also, come say “hi” to Santa.
Seasonal Traditions Holiday Program
East Jersey Old Town Village, Piscataway
Learn about the holiday traditions of centuries past, featuring 18th- and 19th-century holiday music, traditional caroling, wagon rides, children’s crafts and snacks.
Asbury Park Santa Run
Boardwalk and The Stone Pony, Asbury Park
Everyone taking part in the 5K gets a Santa suit to run in. The after party will take place at The Stone Pony featuring Brian Kirk & the Jirks, but it’s for adults only.
Holiday Lights Parade
Somerville
Firefighters from throughout NJ will escort Santa in the annual Somerville parade. Prizes given out for the best decorated fire and emergency vehicles, personal floats vehicle, and best decorated houses and/or businesses in Somerville.
Heights Holiday Market
Riverview Fisk Park, Jersey City
The third annual pop-up in thep ark features more than 120+ local vendors, a food court with holiday food and drink, visits with Santa, a photo booth, and more.
Hot Chocolate Crawl with Santa Claus
Princeton Shopping Center, Princeton
Stroll with Santa Claus through the courtyard while sipping on hot cocoa. Retailers will offer special holiday deals as well as storefront activities.
Santa Magical Photos
Casino Pier, Seaside Heights
Photographers from Heyer Photography will add a little “magic” to your Santa photos.
Belvidere Tree Lighting and Winter Festival
Riverside Park, Belvidere
There will be live music, ice skating, shopping, warm treats, a tree lighting, and more.
Winter Wonderland
High Street, Millville
There will be vendors, pictures with Santa, hair tinseling, character appearances, pony rides, games, live music, crafts, cookies and hot cocoa.
Hamilton Park Holiday Stroll
ANDCO North, Jersey City
Pick up your “passport” and then collect stamps at different businesses, where you’ll find deals, activities and surprises. Carolers will perform at JC Bicycle Co., and Santa will be at Word Bookstore.
Hometown Holiday
Village Hall, South Orange
The Hometown Holiday event happens in two parts: From 3-5 pm there are photos with Santa at Village Hall, including holiday games and activities. There’s even a holiday education station! Then there is a tree lighting ceremony across the street at 76 S. Orange Ave. The CHS Choir and Concepts Dance Academy will perform around 5 pm. The tree lighting will be around 5:30 pm. Stay for free hot chocolate and treats at Village Hall afterward.
Makerspace
Museum of Early Trades & Crafts, Madison
Kids ages 5 to 12 can use the 3D printer, build with LEGOs, make jewelry, experiment with the marble run and code robots.
Freehold Borough Arts Council Arts & Crafts Show
Park Avenue Elementary School, Freehold Borough
Local artists and crafters will set up booths so you can start your holiday shopping.
Christmas in the Pines
Harry Wright Lake, Manchester
The winter festival includes a craft market, food vendors, performances, fire pits, hot cocoa and s’mores, and a special visit by Santa.
Career Carnival for Kids: All Careers Tour
Paramus Public Library, Paramus
Kids ages 8-14 will talk to various professionals so they can consider their own future careers. They will engage directly with Career Guides while they enjoy hands-on activities, demos, games and giveaways. Older and younger siblings are welcome, too.
Winter Wonderland
East Brunswick Municipal Complex, East Brunswick
Winter Wonderland has a little bit of everything: a holiday market, lighting ceremony, live music, performances, Cookies with Claus, food trucks, crafts, face painting, the North Pole Candy Stroll, a live ice sculptor, a gingerbread contest, airbrush tattoos, ice skating, train rides, a holiday movie, a winter tavern, a s’mores station and character appearances.
Dickens Festival
Main Street, Medford
The Main Street Merchants of Historic Medford turn the historic downtown into a Victorian-era wonderland. There are The Village Carollers, visitors dressed in period garb, lots of holiday treats, a parade, a visit by Santa Claus and The Grinch, horse-drawn carriage rides, and candy cane distribution by elves. The shops and boutiques will be decorated for the holidays. There will be more than 90 juried artisans selling handcrafted items. Visit the restaurants or food truck stations. There will be live performances, including a live nativity, and comedic performances of “A Christmas Carol” by Pirates of Fortune’s Follies.
Salem Magic of Christmas Parade
Route 49 and Broadway, from 4th to Johnson streets, Salem
For more than 40 years, high school bands, pageant contestants, floats, walkers, marchers, entertainers, local groups, dance groups, veterans, antique vehicles and first responders march down the streets with holiday magic.
Yuletide Tour of Homes
Broadway and Market streets, Salem
Tour 25 churches, private homes and historical sites throughout the area. Planned activities include the 2nd Pennsylvania Regiment of the Continental Line & The 43rd Regiment of Foot, Woodstown Central Railroad rides with Santa (additional ticket needed), letters to Santa, hot chocolate, artists, vendors and pop-up shops.
You can also attend the Salem Magic of Christmas Parade at 11 am along Broadway and end the day’s festivities with the annual tree lighting ceremony scheduled for 6:30 pm at the Old Courthouse.
Wassail Day
Historic Cold Spring Village, Cape May
The village will come alive with the sights and sounds of the holidays. Go into the buildings for live music, hot beverages, holiday treats and a history lesson. Pop into the Country Store to meet Father Christmas.
Home for the Holidays Parade
Downtown Westwood
The beloved parade will be hitting the streets again with all the lights, music and magic of the holiday season. This year’s theme is Twinkle, Shine & Glow. Home for the Holidays takes place all day long with shopping, events and dining. The parade begins at 6 pm with a visit from Santa Claus. The tree lighting takes place immediately following the parade.
Winter Wonderland Parade
Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Get ready to start winter with marching bands, floats, costumed characters, decorated cars and dance/drill teams.
Hunterdon Holiday Parade
Main Street, Flemington
Enjoy this festive parade along Main Street.
Seth’s Big Fat Broadway LIVE! Concert Series
Bell Theater at Bell Works, Holmdel
SiriusXM Radio host Seth Rudetsky will host an up-close-and-personal concert series that will be a mix of the greatest hits from a star’s Broadway career, plus behind-the-scenes stories. Krysta Rodriguez from Broadway’s The Addams Family and TV’s Smash, will perform on December 7.
Main Memorial Park Flea Market
Memorial Park, Clifton
There will be more than 100 vendors selling everything at bargain prices.
North Brunswick Woman’s Club Vendor & Craft Show
North Brunswick Senior Center, North Brunswick
Get your holiday shopping started as you browse through dozens of crafters and vendors.
Reindeer Run/Walk
St. Aloysius Church, Caldwell
The 14th Annual Mount St. Dominic Academy 5K Reindeer Run/Walk starts at St. Aloysius Church. It’s a USATF Grand Prix event for all ages and fitness levels. There will be visits with Santa for photos, along with his elves and the Reindeer Run and MSDA mascots. There will also be crafts, food and hot chocolate. This year’s event includes the Jingle Jam Holiday Market, open Friday night and after the race on Saturday.
Winter Wonderland
High Street, Millville
Spend the day getting pictures with Santa, having your hair tinseled, shopping from vendors, meeting characters, taking pony rides, listening to music, doing crafts, and playing games.
A John Denver Christmas
The Newton Theatre, Newton
Ted Vigil is a singer, songwriter and a John Denver tribute artist.
Opening Weekend
Mountain Creek Resort, Vernon Twp.
Open year-round, the winter months offer lots of outdoor adventures, from skiing and snowboarding to tubing and building snowmen. Plan a stay at the lodge, book a resy at the restaurant, and warm up by the fire pits.
The Sounds of the Holidays
Grunin Center for the Arts, Toms River
The Ocean County Concert Band performs holiday favorites. This year, special guest artist on the clarinet, Jean Gould, is a retired member of the elite U.S. Army Field Band who will perform A Klezmer Tribute.
Pasko in America
American Dream, East Rutherford
This Filipino fiesta celebrates a traditional Christmas from the Philippines.
December Sip & Shop
Garden State Distillery, Toms River
Be part of the Holiday Sip & Shop Local Craft Vendor Fair, where you can look for holiday gifts while having a craft beer.
Sinatra Saturday Holiday Event
Avon Municipal Marina Building, Avon-By-The-Sea
Music and guest speakers will bring the legacy of Frank Sinatra to life. Activities include live music by Zack Alexander, an interview with Chuck Granata about his career and about Sinatra; and a tribute to Christopher Riddle, son of legendary Nelson Riddle.
SUNDAY
Un Regalo Para Andres / A Gift For Andres Holiday Concert For the Family
Wilkins Theatre at Kean University, Union
Christina and Andrés are a Grammy- and Latin Grammy-winning duo for kids known for their interactive, high-energy shows. They sing original songs that blend Spanish and English with a mix of sounds from across Latin America.
Happy Pet Expo
Ehinger Center of Drew University, Madison
The event features superior pet brands, quality products, services, rescues, national and local exhibitors, speakers, demos, food and prizes.
Home Alone Cast Reunion Meet & Greet
Pandora’s Box Toys & Collectibles, Lafayette
Meet five of the cast members of the Christmas classic “Home Alone”: Devin Ratray, Angela Goethals, Jed Cohen, Michael Maronna and Kristen Minter will be together for the first time in over 15 years.
Great American Soul Book: Christmas Edition
The Levoy Theatre, Millville
The Great American Soul Book has music from Motown, R&B and other iconic soulful music from the ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s and beyond. The show is performed by the American Soul Band, featuring four lead choreographed male lead singers, Deanna Carroll and their background singers.
Dinner With Chopped Champion Chef Andrew Riccatelli
Pop’s Corner, Pt. Pleasant
Chopped Champion and Executive Chef Andrew Riccatelli of The Hudson Rose in Nutley will cook at Pop’s Corner for the night. A la carte menu options include Little Gem Caesar salad, steak tartare, kimchi fried chicken, octopus carpaccio, Hudson Rose burger, Jersey littlenecks, roasted chicken “parm,” veggies with hummus, Piedmontese ribeye, grilled branzino, “MAF” & cheese, crispy duck fat potatoes, roasted broccoli, birthday cake and cinnamon roll sundae.
Sinterklaas Day
Historic New Bridge Landing, River Edge
Be on the lookout for Sinterklaas and stop to take your photo with him. There will also be a Hanukkah presentation with a demo of how the menorah is lit and more about the history, traditions and customs of the holiday. Stop by The Blackhorse Inn and Campbell-Christie House for a tour. Visit the society’s authentic Jersey Dutch out-kitchen where interpreters will be making Dutch puff pancakes. Activities for families include decorating holiday cards for veterans, and pinecone bird feeder and ornament making.
Pet Photos With Santa
SAVE – A Friend to Homeless Animals, Skillman
Take the “purrfect” photo with your whole family. While you wait to talk to Santa, you can treat yourself to cookies and coffee, plus listen to the caroling of the Westrick Music Academy singers.
Mercado Esperanza Holiday Market & Christmas Tree Lighting
War Memorial Park, New Brunswick
Enjoy local food and craft vendor shopping along with live music and dance.
Breakfast With Santa
Dave & Buster’s, Woodbridge
Join Santa for reindeer games (and breakfast) inside his favorite arcade.
Lydia Johnson Dance: 2024 Season
Martha Graham Studio Theater, New York, NY
Lydia Johnson Dance is the professional company of the Lydia Johnson Dance School located in Maplewood. The 2024 Season features the World Premiere Legacy, Chapters, the revival of her signature piece Summer House and Time … and again, featuring New York City Ballet repertory director and former soloist Craig Hall as a guest artist.
A Journey to Bethlehem Living Nativity
United Presbyterian Church of Lyndhurst, Lyndhurst
Watch a free live narrated performance of the story of Jesus’ birth. There will even be a camel!
A Dream Is A Wish Holiday Concert
Casino Pier Arcade, Seaside Heights
Kids can sing holiday classics with four of their favorite princesses, and then meet them after for a quick photo.
Santa Paws
Green Leaf Pet Resort, Oakhurst
There will be raffles, refreshments and more during the Santa-pet photo op event.
Christmas Walk
American Legion, Caldwell
The Kiwanis Club of Caldwell-West Essex kicks off the holiday season with a tour of beautifully decorated homes throughout the community.
Frank V. Marina Flea Market
Frank A. Vincent Marina, Kearny
There will be more than 100 vendors selling everything at bargain prices.
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 8, 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.
Holiday Open House
New Jersey Botanical Garden, Ringwood
December 5-8
Skylands Manor will be decorated floor to ceiling for this year’s theme of A Gilded Age Holiday, so plan to take a self-guided tour. The gift shop and holiday café will be open.
Mistletoe Market
Turkey Brook Park, Mount Olive
December 6-8, 13-15
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.
The Christmas Caper
Hackensack Performing Arts Center, Hackensack
December 6-8, 13-15
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.
Christmas in The Wildwoods
The Wildwoods
December 7-8
Both the Greater Wildwood Jaycees Christmas Parade and Santa Paws pet parade bring floats and marchers to North Wildwood. Shop for presents at the Shopping Village at MudHen Brewing Co. The Downtown Wildwood Christmas in the Plaza entertainment event fills Byrne Plaza, while Christmas tree lightings are planned in Byrne Plaza and at the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse.
“The Nutcracker”
Villa Victoria Theater, Ewing
Select dates, December 7-8, 14
Roxey Ballet presents various performances, from shows to sensory-friendly viewings to a children’s matinee to school shows to even virtual options.
Red Bank Holiday Trolley
Downtown Red Bank
December 7-8, 14-15
Take a trolley ride through the beautifully decorated downtown.
Model Railway Club Holiday Train Show
The Model Railroad Club, Union
December 7-8, 14-15
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
December 7-8, 14-15
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. Part of this is the Holiday Wreath Workshop for teens and adults on December 7.
Essex County Holiday House Tour
The Crane House & Historic YWCA, Montclair
December 7-8: Holiday House Tour
December 13: Holiday Candlelight Tour
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.
Babes in Toyland
Music Mountain Theatre, Lambertville
Saturdays, December 7 and 14
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
Saturdays, December 7 and 14
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, free cookies and brownies from Wonder (December 7 only), a bake sale benefiting Coding for Good of Millburn High School (December 14 only), free specialty coffee from a DUNKIN’ food truck (December 14 only), holiday characters, holiday music, games and giveaways.
Kids Holiday Workshops
The Ryland Inn, Whitehouse Station
December 7 and 14
On December 7, kids can make their own gingerbread house. On December 14, they can decorate 12 seasonal-shaped butter cookies.
Holiday Spectacular Christmas & Train Display
InfoAge Science and History Museums, Wall Twp.
Saturdays – Sundays, December 7-22
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.
Sea of Lights Holiday Lights Spectacular
Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Pt. Pleasant
December 7, 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.
Dickens Village
Maplewood
December 7, 14, 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.
Christmas in Concert
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Atlantic City
December 7-24
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.
Festival of Trees
New Brunswick
December 7 – 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.
Nature-Infused Yoga
In person at the Schermann Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, Bernardsville
Or virtual via Zoom
Saturdays, December 7 – 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.
The Nutcracker
December 7-8, Two River Theater, Red Bank
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.
Downtown Red Bank Holiday Trolley
Red Bank
December 7-8, 14-15
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.
Kuser Farm Mansion Christmas Tours
Kuser Farm Mansion, Hamilton Twp.
December 8, 10-14
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.
Geoffrey’s Express
Toys ‘R’ Us, American Dream, East Rutherford
December 8-24
Take a train ride through American Dream aboard Geoffrey’s Express.
Brunch with Santa
Lobster Shanty, Point Pleasant Beach
Sundays, December 8 and 15
Sit down for a buffet, meet Santa for pictures, and ask about your free gift.
Christmas at Allaire
Historic Village at Allaire, Farmingdale
Sundays, December 8 and 15
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
December 8 and 15
Santa will stop by as you eat from the breakfast buffet selections to take lots of pictures.
Mirror Maze: Theme Maze
Mirror Maze, American Dream, East Rutherford
December 8 to January 4, 2025
Navigate your way through the holiday-themed maze as festive lights and music play throughout the attraction.
A Christmas Carol
McCarter Theatre Center, Princeton
December 10 – 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.
The Magic Flute – Holiday Performance
Metropolitan Opera House, New York, NY
December 12 – 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.
Holiday Model Train Show
Garden State Model Railway Club, North Haledon
Saturdays and Sundays, through December 14
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.
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.
A Christmas Carol
Music Mountain Theatre, Lambertville
Fridays – Sundays, through December 15
Ebenezer Scrooge will confront the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future to re-evaluate his life’s decisions.
Model Train Show
NY Society of Model Engineers, Carlstadt
Saturdays-Sundays, through December 15
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.
Brynn Stanley
The Bernie, the Bernards Inn, Bernardsville
December 18 and 21
The local singer and artist returns to Chef David Burke’s supper club for holiday shows.
Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa Parade
Haddonfield
Select dates, 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
December 4-28
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 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.
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.
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.
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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