In New Jersey, we love our malls and these days, there’s so much more to do than shop. At American Dream in East Rutherford, there’s an indoor theme park, water park, ski slope and more. Garden State Plaza in Paramus is home to play and gaming spots like Planet Playskool and Power Up Arena. Freehold Raceway Mall has Dave & Buster’s, an indoor arcade, restaurant and hot spot to watch sports on big screens. Deptford Mall has Round1 Bowling & Arcade, with bowling, arcade games, billiards and more.
Long before entertainment experiences became popular at malls, Peddler’s Village in Bucks County, PA, was already attracting families for much more than shopping.
Since opening in 1962 with shops and the Cock ’n Bull Restaurant, the popular village has become a place families visit for its beloved spring, summer, fall and winter traditions.
The Lahaska, PA, shopping village has brick walkways, 18th-century-style buildings, gardens, quaint boutiques and a mix of restaurants. This month, Peddler’s Village was named the No. 1 shopping center in the country in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for 2026. Last year, it ranked among the top three shopping centers in the country and was named No. 1 on the East Coast.
Peddler’s Village is an easy day trip from New Jersey, located just across the Delaware River from New Jersey, about 20 minutes from Lambertville. It’s home to more than 60 specialty shops and boutiques, many of which are locally-owned small businesses.
The shops sell a mix of clothing and accessories, home goods, toys, books, fine art, collectibles, gifts, specialty foods and unique finds you didn’t know you needed.
Giggleberry Fair, the village’s indoor family entertainment center, is another reason to take the family. The kids can take on Giggleberry Mountain, a giant obstacle course, ride an antique carousel, play arcade games, hang in toddler play areas and have lunch at the Painted Pony Cafe.
What sets Peddler’s Village apart, though, are its iconic annual traditions.
In the spring, PEEPS in the Village attracts visitors to see creative PEEPS-inspired art. For the past seven years, marshmallow masterpieces like dioramas, sculptures and 2D wall art made out of the sugary, squishy Easter candy have been on display. Every year, visitors choose their favorite PEEPS art via the Peddler’s Village app, or with a paper ballot when visiting the free attraction. Winners get cash prizes.
This summer, Peddler’s Village is hosting Sights in Sand: An American Road Trip, a village-wide sand sculpture display celebrating America’s 250th birthday with scenes inspired by landmarks, natural wonders and history across the country.
Walk through the village to see sand versions of icons like the Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore and the Golden Gate Bridge. Sights in Sand: An American Road Trip is on display through August 31st.
The summer calendar also includes the Red, White & Blueberries BBQ Bash on July 4, Santa’s Summer Holiday from July 24-26 and the Peach Festival on Aug. 1-2.
In the fall, Peddler’s Village becomes an easy walk-around destination thanks to Scarecrows in the Village, on view Sept. 7-Oct. 25. More than 150 handmade scarecrows line the brick pathways, with designs ranging from funny and character-inspired to spooky and elaborate, giving kids plenty to spot while families browse the shops and restaurants.
The fall calendar also includes the Scarecrow Festival on Sept. 19-20, with scarecrow-making workshops, pumpkin painting, live music and kids’ activities; and the Apple Festival on Nov. 7-8, with apple-themed food, vendors and family activities.
During the holidays, Peddler’s Village is magical. The season begins with the Grand Illumination Celebration on Nov. 20, when Santa and Mrs. Claus flip the switch at 6:15 pm to light up the Village. The lights are on nightly through Jan. 18, 2027.
You and your crew can see the Gingerbread Competition & Display from Nov. 20 to Jan. 10, 2027, inside the Visitor & Event Center. The holiday calendar also includes Holiday Kickoff Weekend from Nov. 20-22 and Holly Jolly Weekend on Dec. 5-6, with Santa, holiday music and more.
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:
How to Create a Summer Routine Your Kids Won’t Fight
World Cup Experiences in NJ and NY the Kids Will Love
The Coney Island Cyclone Turns 99: How to Plan a Brooklyn Beach Day
