Things To Do This Weekend In And Around New Jersey December 8-10

The holiday season is getting busy. Hanukkah starts Thursday and holiday events are in full swing. This weekend, head to a holiday market, a performance of “The Nutcracker” or a menorah lighting. Make sure to check dates and times before you head out.

WEEKEND

Christmastown
Drapkin Studio at Lewis Center for the Arts, Princeton University, Princeton
Friday – Saturday
In the North Pole town of Christmastown, Mrs. Claus is in charge of making sure that Christmas operations run smoothly. When Mrs. Claus’s daughter Clara dreams about moving to California, Christmastown is thrown upside down. This is a staged reading with carols, jazz and pop music.

Charlotte’s Web
Paramus High School, Paramus
Friday – Saturday
The Paramus High School Drama Club will put on three stage plays based on the beloved book by E.B. White.

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr. 
First United Methodist Church, Moorestown
Friday – Sunday
Little ones will be rooting for Santa’s favorite reindeer during this mini-stage production.

Jolly Trolley
Downtown Freehold, Freehold Borough
Friday – Sunday
Bundle up with some hot chocolate as you ride around Freehold Boro. Expect to see some special guests, aka Santa Claus. Other events in Freehold during the season include Brunch With Santa (Dec. 3, 9, 10 and 17), caroling (Dec. 14), a tree lighting (Dec. 5) and menorah lighting (Dec. 8).

Christmas Con
New Jersey Convention & Expo Center, Edison
Friday – Sunday
Meet your favorite Christmas movie actors, including a special reunion from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Choose from professional photos or selfies with the actors, shop the holiday market, listen to panels with the stars and celebrate the holidays.

Festival of Trees 2023
Reeves-Reed Arboretum, Summit
Saturday – Sunday
On Saturday morning, stop by to decorate a tree (registration is due by Dec. 6). At night, there will be a festival preview cocktail party for adults 21+. Sunday is the big day, when there will be an outdoor winter festival celebrating community and culture. The day’s activities include arts and crafts for Kwanzaa, Christmas, Hanukkah and the Winter Solstice; games, stories, musical entertainment, a story walk, photo opportunities with Santa; as well as food vendors and a holiday market.

Christmas on a Small Farm Sip, Savor & Shop Weekend
Hacklebarney Farm
Saturday – Sunday
Stop by the market for vendor shopping, Christmas decor, a Christmas photo area, stocking stuffers, lunch, and s’mores by the fire pits.

Flounder’s Annual Kringle Market
Flounder Brewing Company at Carriage Farm, Hillsborough
As you wander the market, listen to the sounds Flounder’s Brass Band playing nostalgic classics. Look out for Mr. & Mrs. Claus as they stroll through the market before heading to the brewhouse for free pictures. You can find fresh wreaths, garlands, and trees at Central Jersey Nurseries’ tree lot. Continue the Christmas joy after the market ends Saturday with the Vintage Vibe Tribe bringing their jazz Merry Little Holiday to the Barn.

Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market: Wreck the Halls!
CURE Insurance Arena, Trenton
Saturday – Sunday
The festival features more than 500 unique vendors over two days, food trucks, special guests and more.

Any Dream Will Do: An Evening of Andrew Lloyd Webber
Stephen J. Capestro Theater, Roosevelt Park, Edison
Saturday – Sunday
This is a musical revue and tribute telling the story of the career of the composer, starting with his very first show, The Likes of Us, and moving up to his most recent Broadway run of Bad Cinderella. He also composed Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, Starlight Express, School of Rock and more.

Night Owl Markets
The Market Pavilion, Highland Park
Saturday – Sunday
The outdoor markets feature local artists, artisans and crafters.

FRIDAY 

Sew A Denim Stocking Workshop
The Eclectic Chic Boutique, Montclair
Learn how to sew your own festive denim holiday stockings from scratch. An experienced instructor will guide you through the entire process, from choosing the right materials to sewing the perfect stitch. You can bring a pair of jeans from home to upcycle into a stocking or use materials provided in the class.

Evergreen Walk & Wreath Craft
Hunterdon County Arboretum, Flemington
Warm up with a winter nature walk around the arboretum. Bring your own clippers and a tote bag to collect some greens during the walk. You will then assemble a wreath to use in holiday decorating.

Laurie Live: A Christmas Carol Concert Sing-Along
Woodbridge Main Library, Woodbridge
Led by pianist Laurie Goldman, this concert will feature classic favorites such as “Frosty the Snowman,” “Jingle Bells,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “The Dreidel Song.”

Jackie Evancho
The LeVoy Theatre, Millville
Jackie is known for her appearance on NBC’s America’s Got Talent at age 10. Still the youngest-selling solo platinum artist of all time, she’ll sing classics like “An Evening of Holiday Cheer,” “O Holy Night,” “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” and “White Christmas.

SATURDAY 

WinterFest
Historic Smithville Park, Eastampton
You will find wandering carolers dressed in Victorian attire, trackless train rides, a life-sized snow globe, a wine and mulled cider tent, a blacksmith demo, a Holiday Marketplace, ice skating, ice carving, art exhibits, winter crafts Victorian Santa. Plan to watch a performance of “A Christmas Carol.” Join the Elf Hunt and help Buddy the Elf gather his friends in the Mansion Maze so they can get back to the North Pole in time for Christmas. Elsa and Olaf from “Frozen” will wander about. Sit by the bonfire and roast s’mores. Take a tour of the Historica Smithville Mansion, which will be fully decorated for the holidays. Food trucks will be on site.

Hungarian Artisan Market
American Hungarian Foundation, New Brunswick
There will be Hungarian vendors, artisans and food trucks on site that are themed specially for Christmas.

A Gospel Holiday
Newark Symphony Hall, Newark
New Jersey Symphony Gospel Chorus, emcee Dorthaan Kirk and New Jersey Symphony Chamber Players will spotlight artists from Newark and beyond in a gospel music-inspired holiday extravaganza.

Snowman Splash Holiday Party
Five Star Swim School, Edison
Your child will enjoy swimming with fun holiday floats, party games, and holiday cookies. Feel free to bring your holiday pajamas to change into after swimming. The kids will be decorating a craft that you can take home.

Holiday Shoppe
MC Hotel, Montclair
The shop will feature local retailers, curators, and makers showcasing the best of Montclair and the surrounding communities.

The Spirit of the Holidays: A Nutcracker Tale
The Dolan Theater at Saint Elizabeth University, Morristown
Have you ever wondered what happened the year after Clara found her Nutcracker Prince? Or what other lands lie in our dreams beyond the Land of Suites? You’ll find out in this performance by the students of Dance Innovations Performance Foundation.

Shop for Good Campaign for Tackle Kids Cancer
American Dream, East Rutherford
The property’s participating retailers, attractions and restaurants will donate a percentage of sales to Tackle Kids Cancer (TKC), a philanthropic initiative that raises money for pediatric cancer research and patient care programs at Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health’s two children’s hospitals in Hackensack and Neptune. Former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning acts as the captain of TKC.

The Nutcracker
Roxey Ballet Company, New Hope, PA
This performance of the ballet class is sensory-friendly with a more relaxed atmosphere for the audience.

Chanukah on Ice
Flyers Training Center, Voorhees
Chabad in Camden and Burlington Counties will host lots of family fun like a menorah lighting, latkes and doughnuts, music, crafts, the opportunity to decorate a Maccabee superhero cape and ice skating.

Gingerbread Architecture
Costen Children’s Library at Firestone Library, Princeton
“Once Upon New Times: Reimagining Children’s Classics” is the newest exhibit at the kids’ library. To celebrate its opening, your family can build a (candy-free) gingerbread home of your very own. Kids can also play in the gingerbread neighborhood, enjoy a gallery of unique gingerbread homes (including LEGO), and learn about the geography of gingerbread.

The Wizards of Winter
Carteret Performing Arts and Events Center, Carteret
This Christmas holiday rock experience for the whole family features former members of The Trans-Siberian Orchestra and other classic rock bands including Blue Oyster Cult, Rainbow, Trixter, Ted Nugent Band, along with Broadway veterans.

Mount Holly Holiday House Tour
Main Street, Mount Holly
Many homes and other locations in the historic downtown will be all decked out for Christmas.

Holiday Made in Monmouth
Brookdale Community College, Lincroft
Hundreds of vendors will be set up in and around Collins Arena, selling goods made in Monmouth County.

Hometown Holiday
Village Hall, South Orange
Winter Wonderland includes a free photo with Santa, holiday games, crafts, a holiday education center provided by the South Orange Public Library, the annual tree lighting, and then hot chocolate and snacks. On Sunday, there will be a special screening of “The Grinch.”

Harambee Breakfast & Kwanzaa Celebration
Jumping Brook Country Club, Neptune City
Hosted by the North Shore Area Section, your family will learn about the holiday while eating a delicious breakfast celebrating the seven principles of Kwanzaa.

Festival of Trees Family Morning and Storytime
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
Start with a self-guided tour of the museum to see the beautifully decorated trees and mantels. Then, visit the museum’s Stockton Education Center for activities, treats, and storytime with the Princeton Storytelling Circle.

Pastry Series with Chef Thaddeus: Holiday Edition
Council Oaks Steaks & Seafood, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Atlantic City
Hard Rock’s Executive Pastry Chef Thaddeus Dubois will teach you how to create a marzipan treat for the holidays.

Christmas At The Arcade
Casino Pier Arcade, Seaside Heights
This free kids’ event includes a magic show with Steve Woyce, a holiday concert with Yosi, and meet-and-greets with Santa and Holiday Mr. & Mrs. Mouse.

Evergreen Walk & Craft Swag
Hunterdon County Arboretum, Flemington
Warm up with a winter nature walk around the arboretum. Bring your clippers and a tote bag to collect some greens during the walk. You will then assemble a wreath or swag to use in holiday decorating.

Voyage Through the Solar System
The Paterson Museum, Paterson
The Paterson Museum is teaming up with the Solar System Ambassadors, P-Tech Planetarium and Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, a NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope Official Host, to present activities and presentations. Visit P-Tech’s portable planetarium to gaze at the stars.  Explorers will be given a Space Passport and can collect stamps for a special prize if they visit every station.

Holiday Happy Hour
Downtown Metuchen
Participating businesses will have a drink voucher and complimentary holiday gift wrapping from the Downtown Alliance during Happy Hour (4-7 pm).

Family Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting Ceremony
Wildwoods Convention Center
There is free admission for the whole family to holiday-themed crafters and movies, photos with Santa, choir performances, children’s craft-making table, a magician, face painting, dance performances, Story Time with Mrs. Claus and more. At 4:30 pm there will be a tree lighting ceremony.

ChristMASS Brass
Bergenfield Recreation Center, Bergenfield
The free family concert includes vendor shopping as a donations fundraiser for the food pantry.

Sensory-Friendly Version of “The Nutcracker”
Mill Ballet, New Hope, PA
Roxey Ballet dancers will perform, with adaptations like decreased sound levels, elimination of special effects, reduced length of performance, and increased house lighting. Kids and adults can move around as they please.

Kwanzaa Vendor Fair
Herbert Hoover Middle School, Edison
Join the NAACP Metuchen-Edison- Piscataway Local Branch for inspirational performances, speeches and visual art based on the 7 principles of Kwanzaa.

SoHa Art Building’s WinterFest
SoHa Arts, Haddon Twp.
Roam through the entire building, which is only open to the public a few times per year. The Grinch will make a special appearance, and Lynn King and Joe Lam will perform live music. The Snowman Scavenger Hunt will take you on an adventure throughout the building to find hidden snowman treasures.

Community Day: Winter Wonderland
Newark Museum of Art, Newark
Enjoy hands-on artmaking, a performance by Teen Step Up, and local vendors at The Newark Holiday Market. Don’t miss a doll giveaway for the first 1,000 families.

Holiday Candlelight Evening
Merchant and Drovers Tavern Museum, Rahway
The historic tavern and inn will be decorated with holly, pine garland and decor from yesteryear. Live music will be provided by Linda Russell, a historical balladeer, who will perform traditional holiday compositions interwoven with Yuletide history and folklore. The taproom will be open for beer, wine and warm old-fashioned Swedish glögg, but also light refreshments and Ann’s famous (nonalcoholic) colonial hot punch. This is a family-friendly event.

Breakfast With Santa
The Greene Turtle, North Brunswick
Take a picture with Santa and his friends (maybe even the Greene Turtle himself) during breakfast.

3 Acres Holiday Market
The Table Kitchen & Bar, Jersey City
There will be more than 30 local vendors selling holiday novelties, specialty foods, art, jewelry, candles, beauty and more.

The Irish Tenors: A Family Christmas
Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown
The 25th anniversary Christmas concert stars Irish tenors Anthony Kearns, Ronan Tynan and Declan Kelly.

A Gospel Holiday
NJPAC, Newark
Spotlighting celebrated artists from Newark, the New Jersey Symphony presents a gospel music-inspired holiday extravaganza.

Sensory-Friendly Winter Wonderland
Bierman Autism Centers, Berkeley Heights
The party includes winter-themed photo boots, pictures with Santa and treats for kids who need a more calm, sensitive environment to have fun.

Holiday Papercrafts
Museum of Early Trades and Crafts, Madison
This workshop for first graders and older has them making a variety of giftable paper crafts.

Felt Christmas Ornament Workshop For Kids
Galastella Studio, Hoboken
Instructors will provide step-by-step guidance so that kids ages 7-12 will learn basic embroidery and sewing techniques and use felt, colorful threads and embellishments to make their ornament.

Holiday Extravaganza Pop-Up Shop
The Rebecca Finn House, Toms River
Santa Al and Coco the Elf will be available for pictures as you shop for gifts, get a massage or facial, or sip on hot cocoa.

Rutherford Elks 3rd Annual Holiday Bazaar
Rutherford Elks Lodge, Rutherford
One hundred percent of the proceeds made from this vendor market benefit charities supported by the Elks.

Montclair Flea Holiday Market
Montclair Flea, Montclair
Fifty local vendors will be selling handmade and vintage gifts.

SUNDAY 

Brunch With Santa
MJ’s Restaurant, Bar & Grill, Matawan
The weekly Sunday brunch gets an upgrade because these weeks you’ll get to take pictures with Santa.

Polymer Clay Ornament Making Workshop
Eclectic Chic Boutique, Montclair
Learn the basics of working with polymer clay, including how to condition, shape, and bake it. You will also learn a variety of techniques for decorating your ornaments, such as using mica powder, stamps and cutters.

Holiday Flea Market & Gift Fair
Wayne PAL Building, Wayne
There will be over 100 tables of gift items at this holiday market.

SnowFest
Historic Wicoff House Museum, Plainsboro
Meet Santa, Tje Grinch and Olaf. Make crafts, play games, go on a scavenger hunt, watch the museum light show, and snack on snowcones and s’mores.

Christmas With the Celts
SOPAC, South Orange
Listen to a combination of timeless ancient Irish Christmas carols and lively Irish dance with modern contemporary songs using Irish instruments.

Festival of Trees
Reeves-Reed Arboretum, Summit
The outdoor winter festival at celebrates Kwanzaa, Christmas, Hanukkah and the Winter Solstice through games, stories, musical entertainment, a story walk, photo ops with Santa, as well as food vendors and a holiday market.

Tuba Christmas
Rockefeller Center, New York, NY
Hundreds of tuba players from ages 8 to 80 from around the world will play holiday songs together in Rockefeller Plaza.

Teaneck Creek Nature Walk
Teaneck Creek Conservancy
Explore what nature has to show us during migration season.

Chanukah Menorah Parade
Leaves from Chabad of Cherry Hill
Members of the Cherry Hill police and fire departments, Cherry Hill Fire Police and Medford Fire Department will lead the parade that ends in a mega community celebration at Barclay Farms Shopping Center.

Community Chanukah Celebration
Barclay Farms Shopping Center, Cherry Hill
Chabad of Camden & Burlington Counties will host a huge party with an 18-foot giant menorah lighting complete with a gigantic spinning dreidel, donuts, latkes, dreidels, crafts, music, giveaways and entertainment.

Snowman Splash Holiday Party
Five Star Swim School, Princeton
Your child will enjoy swimming with fun holiday floats, party games, and holiday cookies. Feel free to bring your holiday pajamas to change into after swimming. The kids will be decorating a craft that you can take home.

Art Together: Family Tree
Zimmerli Art Museum, New Brunswick
Make a family tree with visiting artist Ghislaine Sabiti. This month’s project is inspired by the book “Alma and How She Got Her Name,” currently on view in the exhibition “Our Place in the World: Children’s Illustrations by Juana Martinez-Neal”. This activity will encourage families to think about their history, cultural heritage and ancestry.

Girl Named Tom: One More Christmas Tour
Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown
The three siblings who won the 2021 season of “The Voice” will perform cover hits, their original songs, plus holiday favorites.

Talk About Trees
Point Breeze Discovery Center, Bordentown
Dr. Dan Druckenbrod of Rider University will tell the story of historic trees he has discovered on the Point Breeze land through a survey and tree core sampling. Dr. Druckenbrod is preparing to publish a book on his work and will reveal previously unknown facts.

Washington’s Landing in New Jersey 
Washington Crossing State Park, Titusville
Can you imagine rowing through ice floes, and then trudging ten miles through a blizzard in the middle of the night — and your destination is a battle to decide the fate of your country? Learn about what happened to General George Washington as he and his soldiers crossed the Delaware River on a snowy Christmas night in 1776 – and what happened once the troops landed in New Jersey. NJ State Park historians, the Washington Crossing Park Association, the First Rhode Island Regiment, and other NJ-based reenactor groups will allow you to experience both the crossing and the March to Trenton through the eyes of the men and women who lived it.

Jolly Sinatra Birthday Event
Avon Municipal Building, Avon-By-The-Sea
Vocalist Zack Alexander performs holiday and Sinatra classics, and guest speaker Chuck Granata of Siriusly Sinatra will talk about Ol’ Blue Eyes, in honor of Sinatra’s birthday.

Sensory-Friendly Performance of “The Nutcracker”
Union County Performing Arts Center, Rahway
Sensory Friendly Theatre (SFT) is a series of live performances specially designed and adapted for children with autism and similar sensory sensitivity. There will be relaxed lighting and sound along with other adjustments and supportive services. This performance is by the New Jersey Ballet.

ONGOING

Makerspace Saturday
Museum of Early Trades and Crafts, Madison
First Saturday of every month
Whether you are looking for a kid-friendly project or for something creative to do after spending time at the museum, drop by Makerspace for hands-on activities in a new collaborative workspace geared toward kids ages 5 -12. Kids will build with LEGOs, paint, make jewelry, experiment with engineering and coding robots, and more.

Main Memorial Park Flea Market
Memorial Park, Clifton
Second Saturday of every month, March – December
There will be more than 100 vendors selling everything at bargain prices.

Tours of Crane House & Historic YWCA
Crane House & Historic YWCA, Montclair
Every Sunday
Take a self-guided tour to learn about the women of the Historic YWCA and the Crane family at your own pace. Take some time to walk through the gardens and meadow on site.

Wayne PAL Antique Collectibles Show and Vintage Flea Market
Wayne PAL Athletic League Complex, Wayne
First Sunday of every month, through April
The show features over 150 vendor tables in two large rooms and the front lobby where you can find vintage and sterling jewelry, glassware and Lenox, toys and trains, antique and collectible dolls and action figures, vintage postcards and photos and artwork, military, political and sports memorabilia including cards, magazines and newspapers, vintage coins and watches, classic rock CDs and more.

Frank V. Marina Flea Market
Frank A. Vincent Marina, Kearny
Second Sunday of every month, March – December
There will be more than 100 vendors selling everything at bargain prices.

A Christmas Carol
McCarter Theatre Center, Princeton
December 6-24
Joel McKinnon Miller (Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Murphy Brown, Big Love) is cast as Scrooge in this year’s presentation of “A Christmas Carol.”

Santa’s Christmas Wonderland
Harrah’s, Atlantic City
December 7-10
Santa and his merry helpers take you on a Christmas journey with nostalgic songs and the highest-kicking chorus dancers on this side of the North Pole.

American Dream Holiday Cheer
American Dream, East Rutherford
December 7-15
Every night the 30-foot by 30-foot menorah designed by New Jersey native and famed interior designer Jonathan Adler will be lit for Hanukkah.

Counterpoint: Artists From The Arts Access Program at Matheny
The Center for Contemporary Art, Bedminster
Through December 8
For more than 25 years, The Matheny Arts Access Program has been empowering artists with disabilities to create art without limits. This gallery will showcase some of their work.

Kendra: A Celebration of Work by Contemporary Indo-American Artists
The Center for Contemporary Art, Bedminster
Through December 8
Artists of all genres from the South Asian diaspora can participate and showcase their art and highlight the rich tradition of their native land through a contemporary art exhibition.

Friday Nights at Dragon Village
The Shoppes at Dragon Village, Bridgeton
Fridays, December 8 and 15
December 1 is filled with shopping and holiday lights. On December 8, the 4-H will sponsor Cookies and Cocoa with the Grinch. December 15 includes Storytime at the Shops.

Phare Circus’ White Gold
Stage 42, New York, NY
December 8-30
The story is based on a book about Buddha’s life, and shows how the rice grain is important in Cambodian culture and commerce. The stage show is complete with acrobats and Cambodian circus acts.

Merry & Bright Festival of Trees
The Barn at Highlands Ridge Park, Chester
Through December 9
The event features a spectacular display of decorated holiday trees of all sizes for viewing and also for sale. Inside a winter wonderland setting you can visit Santa, enjoy entertainment and visit the gift table for holiday items.

Dickens Village
Ricalton Square, Maplewood
December 9 and 16
Every year, the first three Saturdays in December turn Maplewood into a scene out of the Dickens classic “A Christmas Carol.” Peek into the mini houses arranged to see fireplaces, stockings and antique toys. Santa arrives on Dec. 2 and stays in his house for visits and photos. There will also be holiday music, a tree lighting and a menorah lighting, horse and wagon rides, kids’ crafts, and a petting farm (Dec. 9 and 16 only).

Holiday Activities
Easton Farmers’ Market, Easton, PA
December 9 and 16
Take a photo with Santa and his adorable merry goats – Millie and Mimi from The Bubbly Goat – with the river as the backdrop. Dogs are welcome to be photographed but the goats cannot be part of that photo. The Galena Brass (aka “The Little Brass Band of the Lehigh Valley”) will be strolling the market. Crafters, makers and vendors will sell items for holiday gifts. The market offers locally grown produce and fresh herbs, pasture-raised meats and eggs, cheese, wine, artisan baked goods, honey, freshly roasted coffee and prepared foods.

Brunch With Santa
Alstede Farms, Chester
December 9-10, 16-17
Santa and his friends will be waiting for your family inside Harvest Hall, where he’ll be part of a casual family-style brunch ahead of Christmas.

Holiday Events
The Historic Village of Allaire, Wall Twp.
Select dates, December 9-17
Take a rare, self-guided tour through Allaire Village at night as candles and lights illuminate the village. Or, take a traditional Christmas Lantern Tour that leads you through 19th-century Christmas traditions. Christmas at Allaire celebrates the traditions of Christmas past along with a visit with Santa.

Sea of Lights
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, Pt. Pleasant
December 9-10, 16-17, 27-28
The winter wonderland includes treats, crafts, pictures with Santa (Dec. 9, 10, 16 and 17), games, Diving Santa (Dec. 27 and 28) and holiday entertainment (beginning at 5 pm each night). The aquarium, Sweet Shop, gift shop, pavilion and arcade will be open.

Celebrate the Holiday Season
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
Select dates, December 9-23
Terhune Orchards turns into the North Pole with its special Winter Wonderland. Choose the perfect Christmas tree and wreath. Warm up by the bonfire with hot chocolate. S’mores kits and holiday cookie decorating kits will be available. Santa makes very special visits on December 9 and 17 and will take free pictures on his sleigh.

Holiday Brunch Buffet
Rat’s Restaurant, Hamilton
December 10 and 17
As part of the meal, you also get a free digital Winter Wonderland family portrait that will be taken in the photo op area.

Christmas Festival
Morristown Green, Morristown
Through December 17
The Green transforms into a winter wonderland at this festival, which began in 1913 with a single star atop one tree; now, the tradition includes a visit to Santa’s House, holiday music and crafts, a vintage-style oversized rocking horse, ice sculpture demos and rides along the electric trail.

ELF: The Musical
Algonquin Arts Theatre, Manasquan
Through December 17
Buddy is a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is human, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.

Ella Enchanted
The Growing Stage – The Children’s Theatre of NJ, Netcong
Through December 17
Ella of Frell is given the “gift” of obedience by Lucinda, her misguided Fairy Godmother, and is forced to do anything people command her. On her adventure to rid herself of the curse, she must outwit ogres, sidestep giants, befriend a prince, survive her step-family, and ultimately find the power to be her true self.

Holiday Bazaars
Grand Arcade of Convention Hall, Asbury Park
The Asbury Hotel, Asbury Park
Whitechapel Projects, Long Branch
Select dates, through December 17
These bazaars are inspired by the traditional “Weihnachtsmarkts” holiday markets held in Germany. There will be handcrafted goods and unique holiday gifts made by local and regional makers and small businesses, in addition to holiday music and entertainment, photos with Santa, food and drinks, craft workshops, kids activities, festive décor and music.

The Polar Express Train
Delaware River Railroad Excursions, Phillipsburg
Through December 17
Once you board the train car you’ll feel like you’re part of the movie. You’ll have your golden ticket punched, then get hot chocolate and cookies served by dancing chefs. Everyone will take home a keepsake sleigh bell.

Family Fun Football Sundays
Casino Pier, Seaside Heights
Sundays, through December 17
While the adults are watching NFL games, the kids can play in the arcade, get their face painted and meet special costumed characters.

Holiday Lights Hayride
Norz Hill Farm, Hillsborough
Fridays – Sundays, through Dec. 17
Bundle up because Christmas time includes a ride through the farm, where you’ll see sweet animals, interactive displays and stop by Santa’s cornfield office. When you get back to the farmhouse, sit by the fire with a mug of hot chocolate and roast some marshmallows.

Holidays in the Wildwoods
The Wildwoods
Select dates, through December 18
Activities include Christmas in North Wildwood, Family Holiday Beach Bonfire, Holiday Shopping Village on Small Business Saturday, Greater Wildwood Jaycees Downtown Wildwood Christmas in the Plaza, Christmas tree lightings, Holidays at HenVille: Shopping Village, Winter Wonderland, Pinch the GrYnch Boardwalk 5K Run and the Wildwood Crest Holiday Lights Walk.

Christmas On The Farm
Acres at Magnolia, Farmingdale
Weekends, through December 23
The farm will be filled with Santa sightings, farm animals, wreaths and a variety of special events.

North Pole Experience
Laurita Winery, New Egypt
Fridays – Sundays, through December 24
Through the North Pole Portal, you will be transported to the Crystal Clear Lake Ice House, where you will receive a piece of magical North Pole Ice that activates Rudolph’s nose when he is flying high above on Christmas Eve. Hourly, Eddie will tell the full story of the magical ice and why it works. A visit with Santa will also be included in your journey. Once you return from the North Pole, you can walk Laurita’s Holiday Photo Trail, order hot chocolate and cookies, and sit by the bonfire.

Christmas Underwater
Adventure Aquarium, Camden
Through December 24
Splash into the spirit of Fishmas with Scuba Santa, who will be diving daily in Ocean Realm among sea turtles, sharks and stingrays. Take a winter stroll through the new and improved Snowtunda, which will sprinkle snow-like flurries. Don’t miss the World’s Tallest Underwater Christmas Tree, down below the aquarium’s shiver of sharks.

Holidays at MarketFair
MarketFair, Princeton
Through December 24
There are many holiday activities, including photo opportunities with Santa for children and pets, performances by various bands and choirs, cookie decorating, pet adoptions and gift-wrapping services.

Christmas Village
LOVE Park, City Halls Courtyard and North Broad, Philadelphia, PA
Through December 24
You’ll feel like you’re in Germany instead of Pennsylvania as local and international vendors set up in traditional wooden booths, offering holiday gifts, ornaments, jewelry and high-quality arts and crafts.

A Visit to Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen
Westfield Garden State Plaza, Paramus
Fridays – Sundays, through December 24
Take a guided journey through a gingerbread wonderland where you will help Mrs. Claus with her holiday baking. You’ll be given an activity sheet to explore her garden, where candy canes and surprises are around every corner. Shop the baked goods at DiLena’s Dolcini bakery. As a bonus, if you book a Sunday ticket, you’ll get an exclusive offer from one of Westfield Garden State Plaza’s onsite restaurants to use for dining in on any Sunday during December.

Ridgewood Holiday Market
16 Chestnut Street, Ridgewood
Fridays – Sundays, through December 24
The Ridgewood Guild, Femmebot and True Ascend curated the first-ever holiday market in Downtown Ridgewood. Shop and support small businesses and vendors selling jewelry, clothes, crystals and more. Santa will be available for photos on the December dates.

American Dream Holiday Cheer
American Dream, East Rutherford
Through December 24
There will be photos with Santa, Breakfast and Brunch With Santa, Chanukah at American Dream; and holiday-themed attractions at Nickelodeon Universe, Toys R Us and The Rink. Check out the Winter Wonderland all season.

Artists’ Winter Chalets
Hinds Plaza, Princeton
Fridays – Sundays, through December 24
Shop directly from artists and makers to find unique, handmade giftables for everyone on your list.

Festival of Trees
Environmental Education Center, Basking Ridge
Through December 28
Several rooms will be decorated with trees in a variety of themes. Note: the festival is closed Dec. 22-25.

Winery Visit
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
Saturdays-Sundays, through December 30
Weather permitting, walk through the historic apple orchard. During cooler weather, seating is inside the wine barn with fire pits, outdoor heaters, and hot mulled wine. Tasting flights of Terhune wines to sample are available for adults. All ages can have fun with s’mores and hot cocoa kits. The Barn Door Café will sell lunch, while cheese plates and chips & salsa baskets are available at the winery. Live music will be on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

The Village at Anne Ellen Holiday Lights Display
Anne Ellen Tree Farm, Manalapan
Wednesdays-Sundays, through December 30
You’ll be surrounded by over 100,000 Christmas lights as you take the hayride from the farm market down to the holiday lights display. Visit Santa’s house, the train room, the life-sized igloo, the gingerbread house, the old school tree lot, the wall of lights, the post office, the cherry blossom field, and the maple sugar shack. There’s a shooting range where you can aim at holiday-themed targets using Orbeez ammunition. New for this year is Santa’s Coal Mine, where you’ll enter the mine’s tunnels to see the coal that fuels Santa’s sleigh – and is the same coal reserved for those on Santa’s naughty list. Also new is the Candy Cane Factory, where you’ll see the elves on the machines hard at work.

Skylands Stadium Light Show & Christmas Village
Skylands Stadium, Augusta
Select dates, through December 30
The 10th annual winter extravaganza includes a mile-long drive-thru course of magical displays of light, featuring everything from fully enclosed light tunnels and a majestic wreath arch to whimsical scenes of bears skating, dancing trees and more. After the drive, pull up to the Christmas Village, where you and your family can shop, eat, take a photo with Santa and make s’mores. Double S Smokehouse will cook BBQ. After dinner, stop by the Ice Cream Shop and Hot Chocolate Bar (where there will also be Irish cream, Sambuca and other liquors for adults).

Winter Wonderland Trail
Indian Acres Tree Farm, Medford
Through December 30
Your night begins with a stroll through the woods filled with fun snowmen and trees made with upcycled materials from the farm. You’ll pass by illuminated boxes with miniature scenes, including a Fairy Garden. Further down the trail, you might stumble upon a secret gnome village. The path flows out of the woods and into the live Christmas tree fields, where you can waddle past a penguin igloo town, “fly by” Birdhouse Row  —but watch out for a runaway toboggan! Make your way into the White Pine field to experience a tunnel of lights snowing down on you. When you’re done, stop by the bonfires for hot chocolate and s’mores.

Spring Lake Christmas Train Village
313 Washington Ave., Spring Lake
Wednesdays – Sundays, through December 31
See the beautiful displays that will make you feel like you are traveling via rail through a winter wonderland.

December to Remember
Crystal Springs Resort: Grand Cascades Lodge in Hamburg and Minerals Hotel in Verona
Through December 31
Activities include photos with goats, a live Nativity scene, gingerbread house decorating, mini tree decorating, ornament paint & sip, an elf scavenger hunt and dive-in holiday movies. Adults can hang out at Frosty’s Cantina, learn how to mix holiday drinks and take a tour of the massive wine cellar.

December in Smithville
Historic Smithville
Through December 31
Throughout the month, come by for the Light Show on the Lake, holiday train rides, the Magic Talking Tree, Hospitality Night on December 2, Girls Night Out on December 7, breakfasts with Santa, s’mores on the green, lots of holiday shopping, and tons of holiday lights.

Winter WonderLights Holiday Lights Drive-Thru
Middlesex County 4-H, East Brunswick
Through December 31
More than 1.5 million lights are animated to some of your favorite holiday tunes. This year there are two new 30-foot trees in addition to the eleven 20-foot trees, a new tunnel, three magical tunnels, a tribute to first responders and U.S. Armed Forces, and tons of larger-than-life holiday-themed displays.

Winter Wonderland For The Holidays
New Brunswick
Through December 31
Activities include a gingerbread house decorating contest, ice skating, horse-drawn carriage rides, a Hungarian Christmas market, the Rutgers Big Chill 5K, theater performances at The State Theatre, selfies with Santa, a community Kwanzaa celebration and New Year’s Eve fireworks.

Coastal Holidays By The Sea
Pier Village, Long Branch
Select dates, through December 31
Weekend events include rides on the Carousel, visits with Santa and holiday princesses, a juggling elf and stiltwalker show, Hanukkah pup photos and fireworks on NYE.

Deck the Hall – Festival of Trees
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City
Through December 31
Walk through the lobby to see beautifully decorated trees that have been sponsored by residents, businesses and local organizations.

Pink Wonderland
Bounce Sporting Club, New York, NY
Through December 31
This isn’t just a bar; there will be immersive decor, specialty cocktails, live DJs and other entertainment and themed photo ops, all pink, of course.

Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights Spectacular
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, West Orange
Select nights, through December 31
Take a winter stroll through the zoo under the sparkling lights of over 50 winter and animal characters. On select nights there will be visits with Santa, ice sculpture demos, Grinch Weekend and Princess Weekend.

Maccabee Bar
Ollie’s, New York, NY
Through December 31
A Boston bar owner is coming back to NY to share her Jewish heritage with holiday lovers, opening a Hanukkah-themed pop-up bar for the season.

Holiday in the Park
Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson
Select dates, through January 1, 2024
There will be millions of dazzling lights around the theme park when it is transformed for the holidays. There will be treats, a full lineup of holiday entertainment, visits with Santa and lots of photo ops – plus, many of your favorite rides will be open.

Bergen County’s Winter Wonderland
Van Saun Park, Paramus
Select dates, through January 1, 2024
There will be outdoor ice skating, games, a beer and wine garden, ice bumper cars and weekly Bergen County-based live entertainment. December 2 is the tree lighting, December 13 is the menorah lighting and December 27 is the kinara lighting.

Christmas in Cape May: Winter Wonderland
Congress Hall and Beach Plum Farm, Cape May
Through January 1, 2024
The hotel fully transforms for the season and features family fun like Breakfast with Santa, Santa’s Workshop activities, outdoor igloos, a festive train ride around the property, a carousel on the front lawn, a Vendor Village, and holiday farm-to-table dinners at Beach Plum Farm.

Lightscape
Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Brooklyn, NY
Select nights, through January 1, 2024
Walk through a trail of 1 million lights that decorate the grounds of the garden, and listen as they dance to songs by Taylor Swift, Elton John, Mos Def and more.

Big Apple Circus: Journey to the Rainbow
Lincoln Center’s Damrosch Park, New York, NY
Through January 1, 2024
More than 30 artists from all over the world will perform in costumes specially designed for the show, and there will be a live orchestra of eight musicians.

Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market
Dilworth Park at the West Side of City Hall, Philadelphia, PA
Through January 1, 2024
Celebrate the holiday season with more than 50 local vendors from Philadelphia and the tri-state area.

Koziar’s Christmas Village
Bernville, PA
Through January 1, 2024
Situated on a farm in the middle of Berks County, PA, are acres of land and barns that are decorated for Christmas. Walk along guided paths to see the train sets, storyboards, huge inflatables, Christmas scenes and Ferris wheel. There are beautifully decorated gift shops and snack shops where you can admire the scenery while warming up.

The Candy Cottage of Christmas Magic
Rockefeller Center, New York, NY
Through January 2, 2024
Start inside the trunk of a giant Christmas tree during this immersive experience, and then you’ll be given a map to scurry around Rockefeller Plaza looking for the ingredients for Christmas magic. When you’re done, head back to the cottage for a sweet treat that includes a personalized message.

Winter Lantern Festival
American Dream, East Rutherford
Thursdays – Sundays, through January 2, 2024
More than 1,000 handcrafted Chinese lanterns and lights will be on display. The lanterns are made with hand-painted silk cloth and LED lights. There will be gorgeous displays of Chinese myths, legends and zodiac-inspired lanterns designed as an animal kingdom, a sea world and a theme park. Look for mammoths, polar bears, penguins, and a 50-foot-tall lantern display of Sun Wukong. You can also make your lantern and dress up in traditional Chinese attire.

Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
Bryant Park, New York, NY
Holiday shops open through January 2, 2024
The Rink and The Lodge, open through March 3, 2024
The rink is the largest, free ice skating rink in New York. You can relax at The Lodge, where you can eat and drink while watching skaters from the rinkside or overlooking the gigantic Christmas tree. The Holiday Shops by Urbanspace Markets is another huge draw and boasts more than 180 new and returning merchants in an open-air holiday market.

Festival of Trees
New Brunswick Performing Arts Center and Amboy Bank, New Brunswick
Through January 6, 2024
The trees on display will represent several countries and cultures and traditions from around the world. During the opening reception on Dec. 3, there will be special holiday musical performances, including by the Hungarian Scouts of New Brunswick, and refreshments.

Newark Winter Village
Mulberry Commons Park, Newark
Wednesdays – Sundays, through January 7, 2024
Spend time on-ice go-karting, ice skating, playing carnival games, renting a heated private igloo or getting food from local vendors.

Festival of Trees
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
Wednesdays – Sundays, through January 7, 2024
Take your time walking through the museum’s elegant galleries, where Christmas trees, mantels and porches will be decorated for the holidays by local businesses, garden clubs and non-profit organizations.

Threading Memories
Art@Bainbridge, Princeton University Art Museum, Princeton
Through January 7, 2024
Korean-born artist MiKyoung Lee hosts her first solo museum exhibition. The exhibition features richly textured large-scale sculptures and wall-mounted works and explores themes of domesticity, family ties, and how we process memory and experience.

Holiday Lights at The Bronx Zoo
Bronx Zoo, The Bronx, NY
Select nights, through January 7, 2024
The zoo comes to life at night with immersive light displays, custom-designed animal lanterns and animated light shows. This year, there will be new lantern displays showcasing the wildlife of New York’s ocean waters and wetlands, plus a new interactive experience celebrating bioluminescent creatures.

A Very Furry Christmas Celebration
Sesame Place, Langhorne, PA
Select dates, through January 7, 2024
The theme park will be transformed into a one-of-a-kind Christmas wonderland with millions of twinkling lights, rides, decorations, and entertainment and activities. A
music and light show takes place at the 30-foot 1-2-3 Christmas Tree. There is a Sesame Street Christmas Parade with floats and performances. Santa’s Grand Illumination and Santa’s ‘Twas the Night Celebration will be in addition to special celebrations for Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, plus New Year’s Eve fireworks to close out 2023.

A Longwood Christmas
Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, PA
Select dates, through January 7, 2024
The beautiful landscape includes 1,100 acres of flowers, plants and trees. The 2023 theme is retro, with a nostalgic feel and throwback decorations to your favorite toys as a child. Everywhere you look, inside and outside, will be decorated for the season with bright lights and glittery tinsel.

Antique Toy Train Show
The Museum of American History at Deptford, West Deptford
Thursdays-Sundays, through January 28, 2024
The show will feature O and O-27 gauge toy trains from the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s. Lionel, Marx and American Flyer engines, with adjoining cars, will race against each other on two platforms.

Holiday Tea
The Mathis House, Toms River
Select dates, through January 31, 2024
Visit this gorgeous Victorian B&B with beautifully decorated tea rooms on the first floor, plus a year-round Christmas store in the attic. During the holiday season, come by for a special afternoon holiday tea or themed events like Friendsgiving Dinner, Scones With Santa, Most Wonderful Crime of the Year Murder Mystery and several holiday open houses.

Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY
Through March 2024
The famous ice-skating rink returns to Rockefeller Center in NYC for its 87th season. While you’re watching the skating, or when you need to take a break from the ice, you can warm up inside the special skate chalets on the South Esplanade. This year will be the first time you can enjoy alcoholic beverages in the chalets, with a soon-to-be-announced menu of drinks by Other Half Brewery, served alongside a menu of après-skate bites. Skating runs through March but the chalets will be rentable from November 4 to January 14, 2024. Details on Family and Kids Day and opportunities to take photos with Santa will be announced.

Newport Skates
Jersey City
Through March 15, 2024
JC’s only outdoor ice skating rink is not only available for open skating but for lessons and parties, too.

Roosevelt Park Family Skating Rink
Roosevelt Park, Edison
Through March 31, 2024
There is open skating as well as skating lessons.

Night Forms
Grounds for Sculpture, Hamilton Twp.
Through April 7, 2024
You will have nighttime access to the art and horticulture throughout the sculpture park, which will be illuminated in an immersive experience.

The Science Behind Pixar
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Through May 5, 2024
Learn all about the science behind Pixar’s animated films. Kids can try a bunch of hands-on experiences like making a short film, creating a robot friend for “WALL·E” and designing a new movie set using props from “Monsters University.” Learn what animation rendering is, then practice it by rendering a scene from “Inside Out.” Create a digital sculpture from an artist’s sketch. Use lights to solve challenges similar to the ones Pixar faced in creating underwater scenes with virtual light in “Finding Nemo.”

Get the latest on the best things to do with your family in and around New Jersey by signing up for our newsletter and following us on Facebook and Instagram!

Read More:
Perk Up With a Free Coffee From QuickChek Every Friday in December
Make These Holiday Home Tours Part of Your Christmas Traditions
This Year’s Must-See Holiday Attractions
The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Lights in NJ
These Epic Christmas Bars Are Opening in NJ
This Winter Wonderland in PA Is Worth the Drive from New Jersey
If You Love Halloween and Christmas, This Haunted Holiday House Is For You