From festive dinners to townwide First Night celebrations, there are plenty of ways to ring in 2026.

December 30-31

Countdown to New Year’s Celebration!
Children’s Museum of Manhattan, New York City
Kick off the new year early with inspirational music, a dance party and a ball drop. Come dressed in wearable art of your own design, and take home a family time capsule.

NEW YEAR’S EVE

First Night at Casino Pier
Casino Pier, Seaside Heights
The Family New Year’s Eve Daytime Celebration includes interactive shows, entertainment, arcade games, food and drinks, a balloon drop, prizes, and fireworks at 5 pm.

New Year’s Eve Parties
United Skates of America, Jackson Twp.
Stitch, Angel and Sonic will be part of the Noon Year’s Eve Party in the morning. An afternoon New Year’s Eve Party on the rink is followed by a Family New Year’s Eve Pajama Party in the evening.

Kids New Year’s Eve Party
The Office Tavern Grill, East Hanover
The party starts at 4 pm, with party favors, face painting and a buffet. And 6:30 pm, the ball drops during an apple cider toast.

Mini Midnight
The Funplex, East Hanover and Mt. Laurel
The early countdown glow party will have a DJ, LED robot, kid-friendly drinks, and a bloon drop before bedtime.

Noon Year’s Eve
Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Pt. Pleasant
Mermaids and princesses will meet the kids, plus animal shows will take place throughout the afternoon.

Noon Year’s Eve
Renault Winery Resort, Egg Harbor City
As part of the season-long Vintner Wonderland, there will be ice skating, food trucks and a sparkling cider toast during the day.

Noon Year’s Eve: Asteroid Drop
Edelman Fossil Park & Museum, Mantua Twp.
When the clock strikes noon, watch an asteroid drop down into the quarry to celebrate the end of one era and the start of another. Keep the celebration going with a high-energy dance party, noisemaker making, crafts, activities, a New Year’s Resolution Tree, and access to the museum’s exhibits.

New Year’s Eve Celebration Concert
Patriots Theater at the War Memorial, Trenton
Capital Philharmonic of New Jersey will perform a program that includes Strauss’s Blue Danube and Bizet’s Carmen, featuring mezzo-soprano Barbara Rearick. A Champagne reception featuring live jazz performed by members of the orchestra follows the main concert.

Noon Year’s Eve with Rock & Roll Playhouse
SOPAC, South Orange
Kids will get to see a concert by The Rock and Roll Playhouse while snakcing on chicken fingers and juice boxes. There will be a cash bar for adults. There’s an afterparty, too.

Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert
State Theatre New Jersey, New Brunswick
Every year, members of the Strauss Symphony of America and dancers from Europaballet St. Polten in Austria join a cast of international ballroom dancers on the stage on NYE.

NYE Balloon Drop Bash
iPlay America, Freehold Twp.
Kids will get party favors, photos with Mickey and Minnie, prizes and giveaways before the ball drops in City Square at 2 pm. Plus, kids eat free at The Bistro until 3 pm. Or, come back at 7 pm for the Best NYE Family Celebration.

New Year’s Eve Bubbly Bash
Surflight Theatre, Beach Haven (LBI)
David Clark returns to the stage to ring in the New Year with two shows of Billy Joel hits.

M&M’s Ball Drop
Hackettstown
This sweet celebration has an M&M’s Ball Drop at midnight after a NYE festival in the heart of downtown.

Noon Years Eve
Renault Winery, Egg Harbor City
As part of Vintner Wonderland, kids will get beads, kazoos, and other accessories to get into the party mood. You can go ice skating, grab a treat from the food truck, and warm up with a huge hot chocolate. At 12 pm sharp, a sparkling cider toast will ring in 2026, 12 hours early.

First Night New Year’s Eve
Ocean City
There is a full schedule of entertainment leading up to fireworks at midnight.

First Night Morris
Morristown
The bash spreads across multiple venues for dozens of performances and film screenings.

Dave & Buster’s New Year’s Eve Party
Dave & Buster’s, Freehold
The Countdown Celebration is a family-friendly New Year’s countdown with party favors, from 4 to 7 pm. The Late Night Party is from 9 pm to 1 am, with a live DJ.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show
JFK Boulevard Beach, Sea Isle City
The fireworks will start around 8 pm.

First Night New Year’s Eve Celebration
Ocean Grove
Entertainment takes place all day, leading up to fireworks at midnight.

Shadows of the 60s: A Holiday Tribute to Motown
Stafford Twp. Arts Center, Manahawkin
Listen to the music of The Supremes, Gladys Knight & The Pips, Smokey Robinson, Stevie Wonder and The Temptations as the cover group sings Christmas favorites.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Avalon
There will be music, crafts, a DJ dance party, face painting, trivia games, balloon art, and visits with Mickey & friends at Surfside Park, followed by a display of lights from the 30th Street beach, and fireworks seen from the 35th Street beach.

Cuban NYE Party
Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar, Tropicana Atlantic City, Atlantic City
Kick off 2026 with Latin flair with an early a la carte Cuban dinner; with a dinner and celebration package including a four-course prix-fixe meal, DJ dance party, Champagne toast and party favors; or with a late-night party.

PFAPA Fun Squad Noon Year’s Eve
Atlantic County Fairgrounds, Mays Landing
This fundraiser for the Atlantic County 4H Children’s Developmental Programs and the Autoinflammatory Alliance is a children’s event with a balloon drop at noon. Bluey and Bingo-inspired characters, breakfast from iHOP, dancing, games, a giant playroom, sensory play, face painting by Happy Daisy Face Painting, DJ Luke, and Characters4U will be part of the celebration.

NYE at Charlie’s Place
Charlie’s Place, Waldwick
New Year’s Eve kicks off with a Family-Friendly High-Energy Party, featuring an à la carte menu, kids’ mocktails, a 6 pm ball drop, and a festive countdown with giveaways. Dinner service after includes an à la carte dinner menu with sparkling wine and two New Year’s Eve cocktails per guest. The night continues with the Charlie’s Place New Year’s Eve Party, featuring passed hors d’oeuvres, an open bar, and live music by Wet Bandits.

Noon Years Eve
IceLand, Hamilton Twp.
End the year on the ice during the afternoon skating party.

Noon Year’s Eve
American Dream, East Rutherford
The mall’s youngest shoppers can welcome the New Year early with a daytime celebration at Nickelodeon Universe, including a special countdown to Noon.

NYE Fireworks Spectacular
Chelsea Avenue Beach, Long Branch
Head to the beaches of Pier Village for fireworks at 9 pm.

NYE in Hammonton
Town Hall, Hammonton
The Drug Alliance will hold an early NYE celebration where families can play games, make crafts, eat food and count down to a confetti drop at noon. Call a babysitter and come back at night for the Downtown Hammonton NYE Bash, where there will be music, dancing, fireworks, and the famous Giant Blueberry Drop at midnight.

NYE Kid’s Party
The Shannon Rose Irish Pub, Clifton and Ramsey
There will be a DJ, dance party, and toast with sparkling cider at 7 pm, which coincides with the ball drop from Dublin.

New Year’s Eve at The Yard 
Bally’s Atlantic City
You can get tickets for a premium package with an open bar and hors d’oeuvres, or attend with a cash bar. The night will feature live music, a festive party atmosphere and $15-minimum blackjack tables.

New Year’s Eve Celebration
Nola’s Bar & Lounge, Ocean Casino Resort, Atlantic City
There will be a premium hosted bar, plus a free glass of Champagne for the big toast at midnight.

New Year’s Eve at Hotel SoJo
SoJo Spa Club, Edgewater
Celebrate NYE overlooking Manhattan from the heated, rooftop infinity pool. Your hotel stay includes a New Year’s toast with poolside snacks, NYE party favors, an in-room welcome gift, Champagne and truffles delivered to your room, late checkout, free valet parking, and access to the entire SoJo Spa Club.

New Year’s Eve
618 Restaurant, Freehold
Step into the new year with elevated cocktails and dishes, live music by JSoul, and 2026 vibes.

Bergen County Winter Wonderland
Van Saun County Park, Paramus
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.

RoofTop at Exchance Place
Exchange Place, Jersey City
A live DJ and entertainment keep the energy high all night as you over look the NYC skyline on NYE. The Terrace offers a 3- or 4-course prix fixe dinner if you prefer a seated experience.

NEW YEAR’S EVE AND DAY

Broadway Through the Ages
NYE: Westfield High School Auditorium, Westfield
NYD: Sieminski Theater, Basking Ridge
Maestro David Wroe, orchestra members, soloists from Broadway, and dancers from Dance Theatre of Harlem will swing to favorites from America’s Great Songbook.

New Jersey New Year’s Signature Cruises
Lincoln Harbor Marina, Weehawken
Stay inside the cozy, heated cabin for your meal, and then go upstairs to the open-air deck for dazzling sights of the NYC skyline. There will be a chef-curated buffet, open bar, entertainment, music, games and dancing.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Crystal Springs Resort, Hamburg
The Family Party at Minerals Hotel includes a buffet and entertainment. A buffet and open bar accompanies a live band at the Canyon Buffet. There will be an open bar and DJ in the Emerald Ballroom. Restaurant Latour will serve an elegant 7-course dinner. Springs Bistro will serve a 3-course dinner during live entertainment. The Biosphere Bash includes a DJ and dancing, plus premium open bar. Make a resy for a 3-course dinner and DJ dance party at Crystal Tavern. Kites Restaurant will have dinner specials with a wine pairing. Kites will hold a DJ dance party with a cash bar.

NEW YEAR’S DAY

First Day
Ocean City
Kick off the first day of the year with the First Day 5K Boardwalk Run, discounts during the Shopping Extravaganza, and a polar plunge during First Day at the Beach at Music Pier.

New Year’s Day Brunch
Crystal Springs Resort, Hamburg
There will be an elaborate buffet you can chow down on while listening to live music.

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The post Where to Spend New Year’s Eve (and Day) in New Jersey appeared first on NJ Family.

The end of December means the beginning of celebrating Kwanzaa, which starts December 26 and features eight nights of culture and holiday traditions based on 7 principles. Learn more about the holiday at these events in and around New Jersey:

December 13

Kwanzaa
Montclair Public Library, Montclair
Free family-friendly festivities include the traditional pouring of libations and a discussion of the seven principles with Sister Kellia Sweatt; a Kwanzaa-inspired fashion show by the students of Payne Tech High School Fashion Club; a dance and drum performance by Umoja Dance Company, a traditional African Market, and face painting.

Kwanzaa Festival
Edison Job Corps Athletic Center, Edison
The NAACP Metuchen Edison Piscataway Branch presents an indoor marketplace focusing on culture and community.

Kwanzaa Tales
Burlington County Library, Westampton
Tahira, a storyteller, musician, vocalist and songwriter, will combine storytelling with music to explore the seven principles of Kwanzaa.

December 14

Kwanzaa Storytime
Fire Me Up! Studio, Cranford
The group will read Lil’ Rabbit’s Kwanzaa by Donna L. Washington, and then create a kinara-themed pottery piece to honor the traditions of family. Open to kids age 2 and up.

December 18

New Brunswick Community Annual Kwanzaa Celebration
New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, New Brunswick
Held in conjunction with the New Brunswick Area NAACP’s Year End Meeting, the event will include food, drinks, poetry, live music and dance performances.

December 20

Kwanzaa Family Festival & Artisan Marketplace
NJPAC, Newark
Dec. 20
There will be performances from local dance troupes, Kwanzaa rituals, dancing and drumming classes, face painting, storytelling and a full marketplace.

December 23

Kwanzaa 365 Kinara Lighting Ceremony
Trenton City Hall, Trenton
The lighting ceremony celebrates Kujichagulia, which is the principle of self-determination.

December 26 – January 1

Kwanzaa
The African American Museum, Philadelphia, PA
Learn about the seven principles of the holiday through music, dance, storytelling, kinara lightings and craft sessions.

Kwanzaa
Sesame Place, Langhorne, PA
As part of the season-long A Very Furry Christmas Celebration, the holiday transitions to a Kwanzaa celebration during the last week of the year. December 31 includes a NYE fireworks display.

December 27

Community Awareness Series Annual Kwanzaa Celebration
Daoud-David Williams Cultural Arts Center, Miller Branch Library, Jersey City
Celebrate the seven principles of Kwanzaa through music, poetry, ancestral remembrance, a candle lighting, African dance and drumming, and a community harvest.

December 28

Kwanzaa
Please Touch Museum, Philadelphia, PA
Families can create a painting of a Kwanzaa table in the Creative Arts Studio, and join Mister Boom Boom in the theater where he will perform with his African drum circle.

Through December 28

Winter Wonderlights
Middlesex County Fairgrounds, East Brunswick
Although this isn’t specifically a Kwanzaa celebration, the drive-through of 1.5 million animated lights that are synchronized to music from a local radio station includes scenes depicting Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Diwali.

December 28 – 29

Kwanzaa Celebration: Verses of Unity
Children’s Museum of Manhattan, New York City
Asase Yaa will perform an interactive Kwanzaa concert, artist Lillian Young will lead families in painting a mixed media mural, kids can create their own print based on Adinkra symbols from Ghana, and families can paint with corn as a symbol of community.

December 29

Kwanzaa Celebration
Plainfield Performing Arts Center, Plainfield
The evening will include African storytelling, a traditional candle ceremony, spoken word, dance, food, a make-and-take activity and a tailored Kwanzaa program.

December 30

Friends of JBAAR Kwanzaa 2025
Newark Public Library, Newark
The Friends of the James Brown African American Room (JBAAR) will offer Kwanzaa arts and crafts for kids and families with STEAM Urban, a special candle lighting ceremony led by the Friends of JBAAR, and a musical performance by Victor Daze.

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Read More:
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The post Celebrate Kwanzaa at These Events In and Around New Jersey appeared first on NJ Family.

It’s fun waiting up til midnight to watch the ball drop in Times Square, but if you have littles or just can’t stay up that light,  these Noon Year’s Eve parties bring the countdown excitement to the afternoon.

First Night at Casino Pier
Casino Pier, Seaside Heights
The Family New Year’s Eve Daytime Celebration includes interactive shows, entertainment, arcade games, food and drinks, a balloon drop, prizes, and fireworks at 5 pm.

New Year’s Eve Parties
United Skates of America, Jackson Twp.
Stitch, Angel and Sonic will be part of the Noon Year’s Eve Party in the morning. An afternoon New Year’s Eve Party on the rink is followed by a Family New Year’s Eve Pajama Party in the evening.

Noon Year’s Eve
Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Pt. Pleasant
Mermaids and princesses will meet the kids, plus animal shows will take place throughout the afternoon.

PFAPA Fun Squad Noon Year’s Eve
Atlantic County Fairgrounds, Mays Landing
This fundraiser for the Atlantic County 4H Children’s Developmental Programs and the Autoinflammatory Alliance is a children’s event with a balloon drop at noon. Bluey and Bingo-inspired characters, breakfast from iHOP, dancing, games, a giant playroom, sensory play, face painting by Happy Daisy Face Painting, DJ Luke, and Characters4U will be part of the celebration.

Noon Years Eve
IceLand, Hamilton Twp.
End the year on the ice during the afternoon skating party.

Noon Year’s Eve
American Dream, East Rutherford
The mall’s youngest shoppers can welcome the New Year early with a daytime celebration at Nickelodeon Universe, including a special countdown to Noon.

NYE in Hammonton
Town Hall, Hammonton
The Drug Alliance will hold an early NYE celebration where families can play games, make crafts, eat food and count down to a confetti drop at noon.

Noon Year’s Eve: Asteroid Drop
Edelman Fossil Park & Museum, Mantua Twp.
When the clock strikes noon, watch an asteroid drop down into the quarry to celebrate the end of one era and the start of another. Keep the celebration going with a high-energy dance party, noisemaker making, crafts, activities, a New Year’s Resolution Tree, and access to the museum’s exhibits.

Noon Years Eve
Renault Winery, Egg Harbor City
As part of Vintner Wonderland, kids will get beads, kazoos, and other accessories to get into the party mood. You can go ice skating, grab a treat from the food truck, and warm up with a huge hot chocolate. At 12 pm sharp, a sparkling cider toast will ring in 2026, 12 hours early.

NYE Balloon Drop Bash
iPlay America, Freehold Twp.
Kids will get party favors, photos with Mickey and Minnie, prizes and giveaways before the ball drops in City Square at 2 pm. Plus, kids eat free at The Bistro until 3 pm.

Noon Year’s Eve with Rock & Roll Playhouse
SOPAC, South Orange
Kids will get to see a concert by The Rock and Roll Playhouse while snakcing on chicken fingers and juice boxes. There will be a cash bar for adults. There’s an afterparty, too.

New Year’s Eve Dance Party and Countdown
Staten Island Children’s Museum, Staten Island, NY
Following a performance by Patrick and the Rock-A-Silly Band, confetti cannons will shoot off before a balloon drop. There are two party times.

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Read More:
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The post Noon Year’s Eve Is a Thing and Here’s Where to Celebrate in New Jersey appeared first on NJ Family.

If your holiday playlist starts with Mariah Carey’s All I Want For Christmas Is You, you’re not alone. Music platform Chordify did a survey of this year’s most popular holiday songs that get us into the spirit of the season. Analysts used Google search data from December 2024, using Google Trends, Ahrefs, Glimpse, and Google Search Console, focusing on search volume and year-over-year growth for Christmas-related song queries.

New Jersey’s No. 1 Christmas song, according to Chordify, is Mariah Carey’s iconic hit. It’s also the fave in California and Pennsylvania.

Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” takes the top spot in 10 states, including in Alabama, Maryland and Tennessee.

José Feliciano’s bilingual “Feliz Navidad” from 1970 is the fastest-growing Christmas search of the year. It topped searches in five regions, including in New York, Texas and Florida.

Wham!’s “Last Christmas” is the most popular song in seven northern states where people love their ’80s pop music.

“Mele Kalikimaka” dominated again in Hawaii, where it originated; while Louisiana chose Ariana Grande’s “Santa Tell Me.”

“This year’s Christmas charts show how streaming culture and social media have blurred the borders between genres, languages and generations,” Gijs Bekenkamp, CMO at Chordify, says in a statement. “We’re seeing Gen Z discovering classic hits their grandparents grew up with — and giving them new life on TikTok.”

These are the most-searched Christmas songs in every U.S. state:

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:
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The post The Christmas Song New Jersey Is Most Obsessed With (+ What Other States Love) appeared first on NJ Family.

For a holiday destination brimming with seasonal spirit, don your festive apparel and head to Princeton. This charming Ivy League destination offers plenty of holiday fun. Here are 10 ways to celebrate the season!

1. See a Holiday Classic. No work of literature has captured the true spirit of Christmas more than A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Small wonder that the annual stage production at McCarter Theatre is a treasured Princeton tradition. Catch A Christmas Carol at McCarter, which features members of the greater Princeton community, through December 28.

   

2. Listen to Carols. The Gothic-style Princeton University Chapel is the grand setting for An Evening of Readings and Carols with Westminster’s choirs and the renowned Solid Brass ensemble on December 13. It’s your chance to hear music performed on the Chapel’s magnificent Mander-Skinner organ, which features 7,897 pipes!

   

3. Join a Carol Sing-Along. Another jolly Princeton tradition is the Holiday Pops Concert with the Princeton Symphony Orchestra on December 13 on the Princeton campus. Featuring tap-dancing toy soldiers, the concert is capped by a carol sing-along with the Princeton High School Choir. Christmas Eve holds another longstanding tradition, where everyone gathers on the Green to sing songs at 5 pm.

   

4. Stroll Through Palmer Square. You can’t miss the centerpiece of Palmer Square, a 70-foot-tall Norway Spruce festooned in 32,000 lights! What’s more, on December 20 and 21, you can also listen to carolers and instrumental music. Be on the lookout for Santa, who will also be strolling around the Square.

   

5. Stockpile Some Holiday Pies. Find holiday entertaining essentials like jams, winter veggies and apple cider donuts at Terhune Orchards Vineyard & Winery, located on the outskirts of Princeton. Visit the wine tasting room from Friday to Sunday and don’t forget to pick up a homemade pie or two in the farm store, open daily.

   

6. Take a Hot Beverage Break. Savor Princeton’s coffee culture at Small World Coffee and Rojo’s Roastery. Or warm up with The Bent Spoon’s decadent hot chocolate (or cupcakes, cookies, and even ice cream) or Pumpkin Spiced Hot Cider at the Nassau Inn’s Yankee Doodle Tap Room.

   

7. Hop on a Holiday Trolley. The Princeton Tour Company regales you with fascinating Princeton history and a chance to enjoy festive decorations on their Holiday Trolley Rides on select dates.

   

8. Visit a “Decked Out” Historic Landmark. Make plans to see the Festival of Trees at Morven Museum & Garden. This National Historic Landmark, which is the former New Jersey Governor’s residence, features trees inspired by décor from the 18th through 20th centuries. Festival of Trees is included with regular admission. Open to the public Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm, through January 11.

   

9. Crush Your Holiday Shopping. Not only is Princeton walkable, it’s shoppable! Ho-ho-ho your way through every item on your shopping list as you enjoy Princeton’s festive vibe. Shopping ranges from J. Crew to Labyrinth Books to the Lindt Chocolate Shop.

   

10. Gather Around the Table. You’re certain to be ravenous after a day of shopping and touring, so reserve a table at one of Princeton’s many dining establishments. Try a TripAdvisor favorite like Blue Point Grill or a Princeton classic like PJ’s Pancake House.

Article courtesy of New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism / reprint permission granted by Marketing Director Michael Styles.

This story was originally published in November 2024 and has been updated for 2025. Additional information provided by Jennifer Amato.

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The post 10 Reasons Why Princeton is Pure Holiday Magic appeared first on NJ Family.

He sees you when you’re sleeping, and now you can see him, too, as Santa and Mrs. Claus make their rounds across NJ before the big day. There’s plenty of time time to get the perfect photo before Christmas. Make sure you check dates, times and weather before you head out.

November 7 – December 24

Photos With Santa Claus
Freehold Raceway Mall, Freehold Twp.
Santa will make his grand entrance on November 7, joined by a cheerful crew of elves. Pet Nights are 4-7 pm on Mondays, November 10, 17 and 24 and December 1 and 8. The Santa Cares Sensory-Friendly Experience, held in partnership with Cherry Hill Programs and Autism Speaks, will take place on Sunday, December 7, from 9:30-10:30 am.

Fridays-Sundays, November 14 – December 20

Photos with Santa
Peddler’s Village, Lahaska, PA
Santa will welcome children for smiles and photos at Giggleberry Fair, the indoor family fun center at Peddler’s Village.

November 14 – December 24

Santa Photo Experience
Menlo Park Mall, Edison
Santa’s arrival on November 15 includes music, giveaways and activities. A special visit with Caring Santa is December 7, while pet photos are available on select dates from November 23 to December 14.

November 15

Santa’s Debut at Holiday Dreamland
American Dream, East Rutherford
Mr. Claus will kick off the holiday season with his festive Santa Spectacular, including a celebratory parade led by St. Nick to his new home at Holiday Dreamland, located in the Coca-Cola Bubble of Court A.

Nottingham High School PTSA Holiday Market & Food Trucks
Nottingham High School, Hamilton Twp.
More than 45 local crafters and vendors will be selling handmade gifts, unique crafts, seasonal décor, and other special finds. Visit the special photo area with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The Tricky Tray will auction off baskets and prizes donated by the community. Outside, a variety of food trucks will offer options, ranging from warm comfort foods to sweet treats.

Tree Lighting Ceremony
Jersey Shore Premium Outlets, Tinton Falls
The holly jolly evening includes Santa’s grand entrance on a horse-drawn sleigh, a performance by Animated Movement, meet-and-greets with Elsa and Anna and The Grinch, free hot chocolate, arts & crafts, music by AJH Entertainment, a photo with The Vineyard Vines whale mascot, and the Christmas tree lighting.

November 15 – December 24

Santa Photos and Santa Paws
American Dream, East Rutherford
Take holiday photos with Santa at Holiday Dreamland. You can add on The Signature Santa Experience, including an extended 15-minute visit with Santa, elevated photo sessions, Story Time with Santa and special keepsakes. You can bring your dog, too, on November 17 and 24, or December 1, 8 and 15, from 4-7 pm each day.

Santa @ The Commons
Bridgewater Commons, Bridgewater
Santa will be available for family photos in Center Court; mention NJ Family to receive $5 off your photo package. Santa’s Birthday Celebration and Holiday Kickoff is November 15.

November 21 – December 24

SCUBA Santa
Adventure Aquarium, Camden
Santa is donning full SCUBA gear as part of Christmas Underwater. Kids can interact with and snap selfies with SCUBA Santa, who will dive daily among sea turtles, sharks and stingrays in the Ocean Realm, starting at 10:30 am.

Santa Photos
Palisades Center, West Nyack, NY
If you book your session online, perks include a discount from Shutterfly, a personalized digital message from Santa, and a three-month trial to Crayola Create and Play.

Select Dates, November 21 – January 3

Holiday Lights
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, West Orange
Take a stroll through the zoo at night, which will be lit up by thousands of sparking lights, plus 50 winter and animal characters. There will be a carousel, touch tank, viewings inside the reptile house, a farm, a pony track, a train and face painting – in addition to meet-and-greets with Santa, ice carving demonstrations, an appearance by the holiday princesses, and photo ops with superheroes and the Grinch. Make an evening of it and rent out an igloo in the picnic area, where you can sit inside a heated tent and have hot chocolate, s’mores and cookies.

November 22

Santa & Friends Arrival Celebration
MarketFair, Princeton
Santa makes his grand entrance with a parade, live brass band tunes from the Ocean City Stompers, Grinchy and his Silly Bag of Tricks, balloon art by Mrs. Claus, an inflatable gingerbread obstacle course, gingerbread-themed arts & crafts, face painting, and holiday treats. The first 300 kids to check in will get a gift.

November 22 – December 24

Visits with Santa
MarketFair, Princeton
Santa’s Arrival Celebration will be November 22 – from 10:30 am to 1 pm, families can kick off the season with a joyful parade featuring Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, the Grinch and the Ocean City Stompers Brass Band. There will also be free face painting, crafts, balloon art, sweets and giveaways for the first 300 children to check in. After the festivities, families can take professional photos with Santa through Cherry Hill Photo. Santa will be available every day for family photos; and for pet photos on November 30 and December 7 from 4-7 pm; and Sensory-Friendly Santa from 9-10:30 am December 7.

November 23

Jingle Fest Craft Show
Wayne Hills High School, Wayne
More than 100 arts and crafts exhibitors from three states will set up in the gym and café, selling everything from home decor to holiday items, to pet treats to apparel. Santa will be there, too.

Sundays, November 23 and 30; December 7 and 14

Breakfast with Santa
Peddler’s Village, Lahaska, PA
Enjoy breakfast at the indoor family fun center, Giggleberry Fair, with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Children will enjoy storytime, a sing-along, and more.

November 25

Friendly’s Holiday Celebration
Friendly’s, Foxmoor Shopping Center, Robbinsville
Santa Claus arrives to light both the Christmas tree and the menorah. There will be a visit by the Trenton Thunder mascot Boomer, holiday music, make-your-own ornament crafts, a Toys for Tots collection, and a discount on kid’s meals with the purchase of an adult dinner.

November 28

Holiday Parade
Boulevard, between LaSalle and The Circle, Hasbrouck Heights
There will be festive floats, marching bands, classic cars, community organizations and a very special guest from the North Pole. The parade is followed by the boro’s tree lighting ceremony at The Circle. After the ceremony, kids can go to TD Bank to meet Santa in person.

Family Holiday Beach Bonfire
2nd & Surf Ave., North Wildwood
Enjoy music and photo ops with Santa and other winter wonderland characters, hosted by North Wildwood Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1.

Red Bank TownLighting Pre-Show
Edmund Wilson Plaza, Red Bank
There will be holiday music, dance performances, and selfie-ops with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Santa and Mrs. Claus will board a Red Bank fire engine and lead a parade with the Pipe and Drums of the Atlantic Watch up Monmouth Street to the Holiday Express performance site on Broad Street.

November 28-29

Winter Village
Excursion Park, Sea Isle City
Families can visit with Santa and his special guests, plus watch holiday performances, listen to Christmas songs, and shop for gifts in the Shopping Village.

November 28-30

Margate’s Spectacular Shop Small Extravaganza
Margate
Aside from great sales and discounts for shoppers, the parade through town will be led by America Sign Language (ASL) Santa on Saturday.

Santa Activities
Doggie Sweets, Pier Village, Long Branch
Bring your dog for Santa Breakfast and Photos on Friday, Breakfast with the Grinch and photos on Saturday, and Santa photos on Sunday.

Fridays – Saturdays, November 28 – December 20

Santa’s Pajama Party
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Kids should wear their cozy, festive PJs to meet Santa. They’ll decorate cookies and ornaments, view the night sky through telescopes, and see special performances from Imagine Circus. Other themed activities include the sock skating rink under holiday lights; an hourly “snowball” fight; up-close moments with a live penguin, baby kangaroo and lemur; the Gingerbred Express mini train ride for kids; a demo making peppermint ice cream using liquid nitrogen; and laser shows inside the planetarium.

Select Dates, November 28 – December 21

Holiday Bazaar Series 2025
November 28-30: Whitechapel Projects, Long Branch
Fridays – Sundays, November 28 – December 21: Grand Arcade of Convention Hall, Asbury Park
Sundays, November 30 – December 14: Asbury Hotel, Asbury Park
Each location will be packed with crafters selling handcrafted goods and unique holiday gifts. There will be holiday music and entertainment, photos with Santa, food and drinks, craft workshops, kids’ activities, festive décor and photo ops. The inspiration is the Weihnachtsmarkt holiday markets in Germany.

Wednesdays-Sundays, November 28 – December 24

Christmas Wonderland
Maple Leaf Farms, Manalapan
Aside from the huge market that has all your Christmas and Hanukkah needs, there are visits with Santa and outdoor train rides; plus, you can get your Christmas tree from a selection that’s grown on the farm.

Select Dates, November 28 – December 24

Santa Visits
Bergen Town Center, Paramus
Santa will be dressed in his classic red suit for photos with the kids, but on special nights he’ll be wear a themed outfit, like on Princess Night, Pajama Night and as Santa Paws.

Fridays – Sundays, November 28 – December 28

NY Waterway’s Winter Waterway Holiday Market
Midtown Terminal Ferry, NYC
There will be more than a dozen food vendors, shopping at the indoor market, crafts, special activities for kids and visits with Santa (on select dates).

November 28 – January 3

Kringle Cove
Whitechapel Projects, Long Branch
Shop all weekend from different vendors set up each day at The Long Branch Holiday Bazaar. There will be a live DJ, holiday craft workshops and face painting for kids. Kringle Cove will have each room decorated so that you feel like you’re in a holiday movie. Make your own s’mores or order pizza. There will be pet photos with Santa on Saturday. You can make a reservation for Very Merry Brunchmas or the Christmas Carol Cocktail Experience.

November 29

Snowfest Saturday
Avalon
There will be bounce houses, obstacle courses, slides, trampolines, a rock wall, ice sculpting and carnival rides. Santa will be in his sleigh at 21st & Dune Drive for family photos, and there will be holiday performances throughout the day.

LBIF Holiday Market
Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Sciences, Loveladies
Artists, makers and small businesses from across LBI will be selling fine art, ceramics, jewelry, textiles, and handcrafted gifts. Many pieces come from LBIF’s ceramics residents and the Plein Air Plus exhibition. There will also be live music, food trucks, festive drinks, hot chocolate, and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Christmas at The Hangar
NASW Aviation Museum, Cape May
Check out all the authentic aircraft and military artifacts, but during this event, there will also be photo ops with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, unique holiday gifts, free hot chocolate and cookies, craft tables for kids, food trucks, a beer and wine garden, and live music.

Woodbridge Twp. Winterfest & Light Parade
Main Street, Woodbridge
In the afternoon, Winterfest includes rides for kids, holiday vendors, horse-and-carriage rides, s’mores and roasted peanuts, kids’ crafts, a visit from Santa Claus, Christmas carols, ice sculpting and a live DJ. In the evening, the Light Parade kicks off along Main Street.

November 29-30

Owl Markets (Highland Park’s Artisan and Crafter Holiday Markets)
Highland Park
The outdoor holiday markets feature local artists, artisans, crafters and food vendors. Aside from shopping for handmade goods, there will be live music, free arts and crafts, visits by Santa, a festive photo booth, ornament making and dreidel decorating on the public market square by the Welkovits Pavilion. November 29 is Small Business Saturday and the tree lighting, and December 14 will be the menorah lighting.

November 29; December 6-7, 13-14 and 20

Breakfast with Santa
The Inn of Cape May, Cape May
Have breakfast with family and friends as Santa greets all his fans.

Fridays – Sundays, November 29 – December 21

Christmas Festival
Morristown Green, Morristown
The event kicks off with the arrival of Santa and the 100+-year traditional Lighting of the Green. There will also be live entertainment, hot chocolate and cookies, ice sculpture demos, miniature train rides and various holiday-themed activities.

November 30

Metuchen Winter Festival and Parade
Main Street, Downtown Metuchen
The parade steps off from Wernik Place, and continues to The Plaza where the tree will be lit. There will be snacks, music and pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

December 4

New Brunswick Winter Wonderland Bazaar
Monument Square, New Brunswick
Asbury Park Bazaar and New Brunswick City Center will kick off the city’s month-long holiday festivities with a tree lighting ceremony, live music and performances, ice skating, snow machine fun, horse-drawn carriage rides, a hot chocolate bar, Festival of Trees, a gingerbread house contest, food from nearby restaurants, selfies with Santa, and a Letters to Santa mailbox.

December 5

Downtown for the Holidays
Downtown Ridgewood
Celebrate the season with a Christmas tree lighting, touch-a-truck, a trackless train, Santa in his golf cart, live music by the Ridgewood High School band and dancers in shop windows.

December 5-6

Winter Wonderland & Holiday Village
Town Hall, Union Twp.
The front and back parking lots will be filled with holiday cheer. There will be a tree lighting, live music, synthetic ice skating rink, strolling characters, Mrs. Claus Sweet Treats Bakery, Santa’s Workshop, a trackless fire truck, curling, a photo booth, more than 40 craft vendors, fire pit areas, and a hot cocoa and beer garden.

December 5-7

Weihnachtsmarkt German Christmas Market of New Jersey
Sussex County Fairgrounds, Augusta
There will be a carousel, pony rides, horse-drawn wagon rides, a petting zoo, a wagon parade, visits with Santa in the courtyard gazebo, storytime with Mrs. Claus and her Elf, a Christmas tree lighting on Friday, festive lights, ice sculptures, and the Pocono Mountain Garden Railway Society train display in the Greenhouse, a visit with author Sue Steinhardt and her dog Imperfect Phil, face painting, and a German Christmas traditions display.

December 5-23

Harbaugh Village North Pole Experience
Harbaugh Village, Mullica Hill
You’ll literally feel like you’re in the North Pole with photos with Santa in the Evergreen, a reindeer stable, letter writing to Santa, holiday light displays, live entertainment, carousel rides, a boardwalk, sports games, ice skating, a vendor village and visits with elves.

December 6

Christmas on the Farm
Howell Living History Farm,  Hopewell
Santa is coming to town – not in a sleigh, but on a steam tractor. There will be Christmas crafts to make your own Victorian angel ornament, live music by the Jugtown Mountain String Band, farm animal visits, tours of the decorated historic farmhouse, demonstrations by the blacksmith, and homemade cookies. Some activities have additional fees.

Breakfast & Dolphin Watch with Santa
Cape May Whale Watch, Cape May
The 2-hour breakfast cruise aboard the American Star includes a continental brunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and almost-guaranteed sightings of the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, plus a variety of birds and historical landmarks in the distance.

Santa Paws
North Wildwood Entertainment District
Your pets will get doggie treats and photo ops with Santa at participating establishments along the route. Prizes will be awarded for best doggie costumes.

Pictures With Santa
Doggie Sweets, Pier Village, Long Branch
Bring your kids, and your pets, for pictures with Santa Claus.

Pet Photos With Santa
SAVE, A Friend to Homeless Animals, Skillman
Take the “purrfect” family photo with your kids and your pets. The Princeton Girlchoir and Princeton Boychoir of Westrick Music Academy will provide background music. You’ll also get coffee, cocoa and treats while you wait.

Breakfast With Santa
Dave & Buster’s, Wayne
Before the doors open to the public, your family gets VIP access to a breakfast banquet (and photos) with Santa, letter writing to Santa, holiday craft making, and time in the arcade.

Santa’s Workshop & Pizza Parlor
Patrizia’s of Red Bank, Red Bank
This collab with Pretty Charming Co. has you customize your own Christmas stocking while enjoying pizza. Santa is expected to make a surprise appearance before hot cocoa, coffee and cookies are served.

Fair in the Square
Verona Civic Center, Verona
The event includes a tree lighting with Santa, food and beverage vendors, and merchant shopping. You can also take a picture with Santa.

Holiday Light Parade & Festivities 
Main Street, Evesham Twp.
Before the parade begins, bring your family for pictures with Santa Claus, free hot chocolate stations along Main Street, festive music, games, holiday videos and a ride on the holiday train. After the Holiday Light Parade, the event finishes with the Holiday Tree Lighting.

Breakfast with Santa
Pennsauken Country Club, Pennsauken
Have breakfast with Santa and his friends.

Winter Wonderland
High Street, Millville
There will be pictures with Santa, hair tinseling, vendors, special characters, crafts, pony rides, face painting, and hot cocoa and cookies.

Downtown Hammonton Tree Lighting
Downtown Hammonton
This year’s celebration will feature The Hammonton Gazette Elf Village, with holiday music, live performances, sing-alongs, games, and activities throughout the night. Santa Claus will light the Town Tree, and then greet families after inside The Bellevue for photos. Free trolley rides start after the ceremony, too.

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. Santa will visit, too.

December 6-7

Free Photos with Santa
December 6: Fortunoff Backyard Store, Paramus
December 6: Fortunoff Backyard Store, Totowa
Have your kids and pets tell Santa which Christmas decorations and holiday décor YOU want to add to your home holiday display.

December 6 and 13

Sensory Santa
Bierman Autism Centers
December 6: Ramsey
December 13: Berkeley Heights, Eatontown
Created specifically for children with autism and other sensory needs – plus their families – the meet-and-greets won’t have crowded mall lines, loud music or rushed photo ops; plus there will be clinician-approved activities.

December 6, 13, 20

Dickens Village
Ricalton Square, Maplewood
The downtown turns into the cutest representation of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” complete with mini houses adorned with fireplaces, stockings and antique toys. Santa arrives at 1 pm on December 6 with the help of the Maplewood Fire Department, and stays for visits during the three weekends. There will be a tree lighting at 4 pm. Then, on each day, check out all decorated houses, make a resy for Breakfast with Santa, take a horse and wagon ride, visit the petting farm, listen to the Swing Town’s holiday concert and holiday readings.

December 7

Winter in the Pines
Batsto Village, Hammonton
Seasonal fun includes a meeting with Santa, wagon rides through the historic village and live music in the Pinelands.

Wayne Valley HS Holiday Craft Show
Wayne Valley High School, Wayne
Over 100 exhibitors will set up a variety of arts and crafts in one huge gym. A bake table and a breakfast and lunch menu will be available in the café; while homemade pickles, kettle korn, chainsaw animals and tie dye will be set up outside. Santa will stop by, too.

Santa Pizza Party
Treno, Haddon Twp.
Santa will be stopping by the restaurant to say “hi” and snap some photos.

Lunch with Santa
McLoone’s Pier House, Pier Village, Long Branch
Stop by the restaurant for a meal and a pic.

Dutch Christmas Tea
Historic New Bridge Landing, River Edge
Step back in time and sit in the historic Campbell-Christie House for a Dutch Colonial tea that will include a 3-course menu of sandwiches, scones and sweet treats, with a choice of hot beverages. Take a moment to visit Sinterklaas and snap a photo with him. Have a look at the treasures in the gift shop for your holiday presents.

Lunch with Santa
Pennsauken Country Club, Pennsauken
Have lunch with Santa and his friends.

Reeves-Reed Arboretum Holiday Open House
Reeves-Reed Arboretum, Summit
The free event includes a Sip ‘n’ Shop Holiday Market, holiday greens sale, tree decorating, a woodland winter story walk, choir singing by students from Summit High and Oak Knoll, a holiday raffle, cookies and cocoa, and photos with Santa.

December 7, 14 and 21

Holidays at HenVille: Shopping Village
MudHen Brewing Company, Wildwood
Browse vendors in the parking lot while enjoying hot cocoa, s’mores stations, caricatures, face painting, and live music in the Biergarten. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on-site for photos.

December 11

St. Hubert’s Tree of Love
St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center, Madison
Hang a personalized ornament on the tree in honor of your beloved pets, browse a winter market filled with animal-themed gifts, and enjoy some festive treats. There will be a special storytime for kids with small animals, a tree lighting, a performance by MPAC Performing Arts Company, and visits with Santa.

Tice’s Corner Winter Festival
Tice’s Corner Marketplace, Woodcliff Lake
Come for an evening of holiday shopping, hot cocoa, caroling and a meet-and-greet with Santa.

December 12

Swimming with Santa
Holly City Family Center, Millville
Bring a bathing suit and a towel for some fun in the pool with Santa.

December 13

Holiday Wonderland & Christmas Market
Heritage Park, Manahawkin
Makers, bakers, food vendors, Santa and Mrs. Claus, fire pits, a hot cocoa bar, a beer truck benefitting the Stafford Twp. PBA, and live entertainment are all part of the holiday action.

Christmas Village 2025
Duffield’s Farm & Market, Sewell
Usher in the Christmas season with gingerbread decorating, a hot chocolate bar, photos with Santa, food trucks and craft vendors.

Sensory Santa
JDK Social Station, Secaucus
You’ll take a quiet, calm photo with Santa, and then do crafts if you’d like to stay.

Family Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting Ceremony 
Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood
There will be holiday-themed crafters and movies, photos with Santa, choir performances, a children’s craft-making table, a magician, face painting, dance performances, Story Time with Mrs. Claus, and then at 4 pm a tree lighting ceremony.

Ornament Making
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
As part of the Holiday Children’s Workshop series, kids will listen to a festive story, make an ornament, and have a cup of hot chocolate inside the farm’s heated barn. Families are invited to stay after and take photos on Santa’s sleigh.

Sundaes With Santa and Friends
Brigantine Community Presbyterian Church, Brigantine
Meet Santa, make your own ice cream sundaes, and spend time with the Absecon Veterinary Hospital Animal Therapy Team. Proceeds benefit lifesaving treatment costs for animals through Laddie’s Legacy.

The Santa Train
Tri-State Railway Historical Society, Wayne
This hour-long round-trip experience includes carols, costumed characters and a chance to meet Santa.

Breakfast with Santa
Paragon Tap & Table, Clark
The kids get their own menu of waffles, French toast sticks and scrambled eggs, while adults (including Santa) can order from the brunch menu.

Breakfast with Santa
Battleship NJ, Camden
Come aboard the decommissioned ship for a hot breakfast served from the Chow Line in the Mess Hall of the ship. You can take a self-guided tour of the boat, plus get your picture taken with Santa. There will be holiday trees displayed throughout the historic spaces.

Santa at The Co-Lab
Co-Lab, South Orange
Bring the family, grab a picture, and enjoy a little holiday magic.

Winterfest
Historic Smithville Park, Eastampton
You will find wandering carolers dressed in Victorian attire, music by the Pine Barons Chorus and Jersey Sound Chorus, songs by the Cinnaminson Middle School Choir and School of Rock students, a wine and mulled cider tent, a holiday marketplace, an elf hunt through the Mansion Maze, tours of the mansion, bubble magic with Meadow Perry, ice skating on a synthetic rink, ice carving, a bonfire with s’mores, a tree lighting, a holiday surprise from the Pirates of Fortune’s Folly, winter crafts for kids, food trucks, and, of course, Victorian Santa.

Breakfast with Santa
The Pendry at Natirar, Peapack-Gladstone
Chat with the Man with a Bag before Christmas, telling him what’s on your Christmas list, in between bites of eggs, buttermilk pancakes, sugar waffles, cereal, donuts, muffins, danishes and fruit.

Breakfast with Santa
Seaview Hotel and Golf Club, Galloway
After indulging in breakfast, spend a special moment with Santa.

December 13-14, 20-21

Flounder’s Kringle Market
Carriage Farm, Hillsborough
There will be food trucks, craft beer, mulled wine, a brass band performance, dance demos, holiday shopping from 45+ vendors, Christmas tree and wreath sales, live caroling, a Kid’s Craft Zone, a visit by Buddy the Elf, and free photos with Santa. The event is pet-friendly.

Santa Brunch
Carpaccio, American Dream, East Rutherford
Enjoy a magical morning with Santa during brunch, and stay for some festive activities.

December 14

Meet Santa
Carnegie Diner & Cafe, Secaucus
Say “hi” to Santa and take a family photo together, then stay for all-day breakfast, oversized sandwiches, burgers, ice cream shakes and more.

The Polar Express Movie
The Levoy Theatre, Millville
Watch a screening of the movie, then meet Santa, and have cookies and hot chocolate.

Breakfast with Santa
Red Horse by David Burke at Bernards Inn, Bernardsville
Smile big for a photo with Santa while eating from the buffet, packed with croissants, mini muffins, bagels, pastrami-smoked salmon, scrambled eggs, wild mushroom frittata, pancakes, French toast, honey-glazed ham, fudge brownies, chocolate strawberries, caramel macarons and rice crispy treats.

Pictures with Santa
Doggie Sweets, Pier Village, Long Branch
Bring your kids – and your pups – for pictures with Santa.

Brunch with Santa
McLoone’s Pier House, Pier Village, Long Branch
Come by for a meal and meet Kris Kringle.

Hot Cocoa with Santa & Stitch
Casino Pier Arcade, Seaside Heights
Santa and Holiday Stitch are stopping by Casino Pier for photos, hot cocoa and face painting. Kids can wear their favorite PJs.

December 14 and 20

Santa Brunch
The Bistro at iPlay America, Freehold Twp.
Join Santa for a holly-jolly brunch, where kids will get a free coloring book and a photo with Santa. Then, go play in the arcade and mini amusement park at iPlay America.

December 19 – 24

Santa’s Stable
The Black Horse Pub, Mendham
Eat inside the holiday decorated, heated tent. The full menu will be available during regular hours. Meet Santa and his elves on December 21 from 12 to 3 pm.

December 20

Breakfast With Santa
RoofTop at Exchange Place, Jersey City
This annual holiday event overlooking NYC features a professional photo op with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their merry elves. The spread includes classic brunch favorites, Balthazar pastries, Belgian waffles, and a full hot chocolate station loaded with toppings. Kids will have their own buffet with chicken fingers, mini deep-dish pizza and chocolate chip cookies.

Cookie Decorating
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
As part of the Holiday Children’s Workshop series, kids will listen to a festive story, make an ornament, and have a cup of hot chocolate inside the farm’s heated barn. Families are invited to stay after and take photos on Santa’s sleigh.

December 20-21

Brunch with Santa
Cock ‘n’ Bull, Peddler’s Village, Lahaska, PA
Enjoy a magical brunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus, which includes storytime, a sing-along with Santa, and craft-making.

December 21

Holiday Brunch with Santa
Drifthouse, Sea Bright
Take a photo with Santa while overlooking the ocean, in between bites of brunch.

Brunch With Santa
Brothers Barbecue, Palisades Center, West Nyack, NY
Make sure you grab a napkin after eating your BBQ meal before shaking Santa’s hand.

Holiday Brunch
Central Taco, Haddon Twp.
Santa will visit while you kids make festive holiday crafts, so you can eat, play and take photos with Kris Kringle.

Brunch with Santa
McLoone’s Pier House, Pier Village, Long Branch
Come by for a meal and meet Kris Kringle.

Santa’s Workshop
Casino Pier Arcade, Seaside Heights
Join Buddy, Jovi and Santa at the Casino Pier Arcade to decorate your own gingerbread house, and snap festive photos.

There’s still time to meet Santa before Christmas! Check out our Instagram page for all the cuteness.

Read More:
Where to See Christmas Tree Lightings Across New Jersey
Mom Crush: M.B. Paradise, Author of ‘Beach Santa’
How to Make a Santa Board

The post Where to Meet Santa in NJ During the Holiday Season: Photos, Breakfasts & More appeared first on NJ Family.

Hanukkah will be celebrated from December 14 to 22, offering eight nights of menorah lightings, dreidel games, latkes and gift-giving. Here’s where you can celebrate the Festival of Lights with your family.

NORTH

Hanukkah LEGO Night
Temple Sholom, Scotch Plains
December 10, 6-7:30 pm
Join the Temple Sholom family for 90 minutes of festivities, latkes, and LEGOs.

Menorah Lighting
Ricalton Square, Maplewood
December 16, 6:15 pm
Rabbi Sholom Bogomilsky from the Maplewood Jewish Center will light the menorah for Hanukkah.

Outdoor Menorah Lighting
Veterans Park, Randolph
December 21, 6 pm
There will be a gelt drop, latkes, donuts, hot drinks and live music during the Chabad Center for Jewish Life’s celebration.

Randolph Chanukah Menorah Parade
CCFJL, Randolph
December 14, 2 pm
Spread the light during the parade, led by the Randolph Fire Department. You can join the parade or watch as it passes by.

CENTRAL

Heirloom’s Festival of Lights
Heirloom Kitchen, Old Bridge
Thursdays, starting December 4
Dinner for Two includes matzah ball soup, a pickle plate, brisket, roasted vegetable tzimmes, latkes with crème fraiche, and sufganiyot.

Menorah Lighting
Town Hall, Aberdeen
December 16, 6-7:30 pm
Join your neighbors as they light the menorah outside of Town Hall.

Owl Market
Downtown Highland Park
December 14
The menorah lighting will be part of tonight’s Owl Market, Highland Park’s Artisan and Crafter Holiday Market.

Holiday Craft Fair
Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple, New Brunswick
December 7
Browse a market of local vendors offering handmade gifts, seasonal treats, and unique crafts. Bring the whole family for a special storytelling session with local author Karen Rostoker-Gruber, who will share Hanukkah stories alongside a surprise guest. Warm up at the hot cocoa bar or enjoy some holiday treats.

Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Freehold Borough
December 16, 5-7 pm
The menorah lighting takes place every year in front of the Hall of Records.

Menorah Lighting
Municipal Complex, Hillsborough
December 21, 4:30 pm
The menorah lighting is held in partnership with Temple Beth-El.

Temple Sholom’s LatkePalooza
Temple Sholom, Scotch Plains
December 19
The menorah lighting and Kabbalat Shabbat Service will be followed by a community welcoming dinner celebrating both Shabbat and Hanukkah.

Princeton Symphonic Brass Classics and Carols Concerts
Community Middle School, Plainsboro
December 12
The concert will feature carols, Christmas classics, Hanukkah music; plus the Holiday Sing-Along, with pieces written for the group.

Chanukah Celebration
State Park, Monroe Twp.
December 14, 3:30 pm
The grand menorah lighting will include live music, a gelt drop, donuts, hot cocoa and entertainment.

Menorah Lighting
Town Hall, Manalapan
December 17, 7 pm
After the lighting, stay for latkes and jelly donuts.

Hanukkah Pictures
Doggie Sweets
December 7, 12 pm
Bring your kids, and your dogs, for pictures ahead of the Festival of Lights.

Menorah Lighting
Nassau Inn Patio, Princeton
December 16, 4-5 pm
The Jewish Center of Princeton will hold a Hanukkah celebration with a menorah lighting and music.

Friendly’s Holiday Celebration
Friendly’s, Robbinsville
November 25, 5 pm
Santa Claus arrives to light both the Christmas tree and the menorah. There will be a visit by the Trenton Thunder mascot Boomer, holiday music, make-your-own ornament crafts, a Toys for Tots collection, and a discount on kid’s meals with the purchase of an adult dinner.

Menorah Lighting
Pier Village, Long Branch
December 21, 5:30 pm
Members of the Chabad of the Shore will light the menorah.

Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting
December 2, 6:30 pm
Municipal Complex, Robbinsville
Come to the municipal complex for a dual celebration. Crafts and photos with Santa take place at 5:30 pm, followed by both lightings at 6:30 pm.

Menorah Lighting
Municipal Complex, Sea Bright
December 15
Chabad of the Shore will hold its annual menorah lighting.

SOUTH

Menorah Lighting Ceremony and Hanukkah Celebration
Main Street and Maple Avenue, Evesham Twp.
December 17, 5:30 pm
Rabbi Pamela Gottfried of Congregation Beth Tikvah will lead the ceremony, after which you are invited inside The Evesham Municipal Complex for snacks and more celebrating.

Lighting of the Hanukkah Menorah
City Hall, Ocean City
December 14-22
Once the sun goes down on each night of Hanukkah, a candle will be lit on the menorah displayed on the front lawn of City Hall.

Lighting of the Menorah
Twp. of Monroe (Williamstown)
December 4, 7-9 pm
Light the menorah with your friends and neighbors.

Check out our Instagram page for a video from one of last year’s menorah lightings.

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!

Holiday Fun:
The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Attractions in NJ, NY and PA
Where to See Holiday Lights in New Jersey
Christmas Markets In and Around New Jersey to Visit This Season

The post Celebrate Hanukkah at These Menorah Lightings & Events appeared first on NJ Family.

There’s a magical winter wonderland tucked away in the woods of Manalapan and it’s total holiday spirit #goals and a must for every Hallmark movie fan!

Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm is known for its 50 acres of 50,000 Christmas trees its owners have been growing for over 80 years, as well as its beautiful market and gift shop, but for the past five years it has gained huge popularity for The Village, a concept created by the owner’s 24-year-old son.

It has become a must-see Christmas attraction in New Jersey – and with good reason. The holiday lights alone make it well worth the visit! After taking a quick hayride through the farm, you’ll see 400,000 lights shining amidst the trees.

Once you climb off the wagon, you’ll walk through a path of holiday displays, homes and attractions. You’ll walk on gravel and grass so wear comfortable shoes and bundle up. Take a leisurely stroll at your own pace for about an hour and you’ll see gigantic glowing snowmen, Santa on the lake, a manger, a hot air balloon, elves and nutcrackers, and lots of glowing snowflakes.

Interactive activities include stopping by the post office to send Santa a letter; going on the area’s only 4D sleigh ride experience, where Dash takes you on a journey to save the North Pole; and shooting air-soft pellets at lit-up targets.

You and your crew can take a piece of coal from the coal mine, get a sweet and personal explanation of how maple sugar is made, and make penguins spin and fish inside the new igloo.

There are also displays of a train set and dolls making gingerbread cookies. You can use an iPad to write a message in lights, play a video game and pop your head into life-sized cutouts.

If all that walking makes you hungry, order a funnel cake or fried Oreos and wash it down with specialty hot chocolate flavors like candy cane, s’mores, or this season’s new rainbow cookie. You can walk through a new Abominable Snowman-shaped tunnel to get to the sweet treats. Pro tip: there is a second cocoa stand further into the village, since the first area gets packed.

Also new is The Elf Hunt, where a map leads you to six Elf on the Shelf dolls that are hidden within the displays and buildings. Once you’ve found them all, you can get a surprise from the gift shop.

The paths are accessible to strollers (you’ll have to fold them up on the hayride) and there are plenty of places to sit down. It’s very well-lit, and you can buy glow sticks at the gift shop, too. It takes about an hour to 90 minutes to see everything, but you can stay as long as you’d like.

Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm is located at 114 Daum Rd., Manalapan. The Village at Anne Ellen holiday lights event is open select dates through December 30, from 5-10 pm. Tickets must be purchased online, in advance; no tickets will be sold at the door. Tickets range from $14 for kids aged 3-12, to $24 for adults. You will not be allowed to enter before your given time, but the line can take 15-30 minutes to go through so get on line early. Parking is free, but limited, so if you’re coming with a group it’s best to carpool.

The Shops are open from 9 am to 8 pm every day through December 30 (during the duration of The Village).

The cut-your-own Christmas tree fields are open every day (end date TBD) from 9 am to 4 pm; pre-cut trees can be purchased until 8 pm. The shops and tree fields accept cash or card.

Check out our Instagram page to see the gorgeous lights display during the 2023, 2024 and 2025 seasons.

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:
The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Attractions in NJ, NY and PA
The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Lights in NJ

The post This NJ Winter Wonderland Is Tucked Away At a Christmas Tree Farm appeared first on NJ Family.

They’ve got Santa, presents and lights! These houses and neighborhoods in New Jersey go extra for Christmas with thousands of sparkling lights, gigantic decorations, inflatables, and more. Always check the websites below first before heading out, in case there are weather or event updates.

North Jersey

Fleetwood Christmas Lights Display
32 Fleetwood Dr., Rockaway Twp.
Marc Iuliani has been producing this holiday light show for the past seven years at his family’s home. They have a holiday display ranging from an array of RGB lighting and props synchronized to music.

Camuso Holiday Display
Robert Harp Drive Livingston
For many decades before his passing, Ernie Camuso – who was a toymaker, and later machinist, by trade – collected more than 100 animated robotic figures and created one of the biggest Christmas displays in NJ. The centerpiece is the Christmas tree built by Ernie – it stands 26 feet high, rotates on a mechanical base, and has more than 10,000 colored lights adorning more than 100 individual tree branches, capped with a 4-foot lighted star. After he passed, the collection was donated to the Camuso Committee, who restored the pieces and continued to light up the display every year.

Christmas House
Lockhern Court, Livingston
Look up, down, left and right, because there are decorations everywhere! The giant LED Christmas tree projects onto the house. Santa and his reindeer, and a USA-inspired Christmas tree, are on the roof. There’s a mini wonderland of inflatables out front.

Christmas House
59 Hillside Crescent, Nutley
Kids will like The Elf Workshop, the penguin and polar bear scene, the Reindeer Barn and a replica of The Polar Express train. There’s also a hot cocoa bar and gingerbread bakery with ready-to-eat snacks.

Tamburro House
Lafayette Avenue, Hawthorne
There are hundreds of inflatables all over the front lawn, including The Three Stooges, a choir, the Nativity scene, the Minions, Disney characters and a good old-fashioned Santa Claus, designed by a family of firefighters.

Drive Through Around the Lake
37 Ryerson Rd., Lincoln Park
This isn’t a house; it’s a free drive-through around the community lake, plus tons of lights and ground displays.

Vaz Family House
226-228 Forest Ave., Lyndhurst
The family owns a business in town and wants to give back to the community. There are lights, lights and more lights. And of course, visits from Santa.

Walker House
142 Hillman Ave., Glen Rock
The family has put over 1,000 candy canes on their bushes for all to enjoy. If you live in the area, check out the December issue of Glen Rock Living magazine, which will feature the massive lights display.

Hackettstown
Multiple locations
As part of its Hometown Holiday tradition, several neighborhoods compete for the brightest house on the block. Some of the best are located at 107 Hurley Dr., 107 Park Ave., 83 Watch Hill Rd., 511 W. Valley View, 34 Lawrence Dr., 13 Deerfield Dr., 104 6th St., and 72 Main St.

DaSilva Christmas Light Display
6 Viking Ct., Randolph
Each year this family puts up over 100,000 lights to support St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Central Jersey

Fanwood Famous Christmas House
83 and 87 Paterson Rd., Fanwood
Gregory Roser creates not one but two gorgeous Christmas houses that glow from miles away.

Iacoviello Wonderland
Sandpiper Drive, Manalapan
Jingle, mingle & twinkle during the fourth annual holiday season winter wonderland on Dec. 13. Experience the lights and music, plus bring your letters for Santa because he’ll be making a special visit!

Martel’s Christmas Wonderland
21 Phillips Ave., Hamilton
The blow molds, plastic molds and inflatables complement the thousands of lights that illuminate the house on this small residential street. Santa and Grinch are known to pop by at times.

Santa Drive Stop & Drop
14 Route 33, Freehold
When you come for this amazing lights display at the Parze household December 19-21, bring a non-perishable food item or unwrapped toy to assist those affected by domestic violence.

Pollicino Family House
Aldrich Road and Cindy Court, Howell
Nick Pollicino – aka Saint Nick – decorated his house and not one inch of the property isn’t covered in sparkling lights.

Christmas at the Nietzers
201 Hamilton Blvd., South Plainfield
This light show is not only merry and bright, the folks at Nietzers show you how they put it all together. Follow their Facebook page to see just how much it takes to put up a giant light show like this one. Tune your radio to 89.3 FM or download the PulseMesh app to pick your favorite song. Donations to the First Baptist Church of South Plainfield can be made online or there is a box behind the manger. Rhe hours are 5-9 pm Sunday to Thursday, and 5 to 10 Friday and Saturday.

Gress House Holiday Light Spectacular
14 Johnson Ave, Union Beach
Not only is this house known for its lights (it was a contender during the 2017 season of “The Great Christmas Lights Fight” on ABC), but its festive inflatables bring their scenes to life.

Ferone Family Christmas Light Spectacular
184 Yellowbank Rd., Toms River
Once their Halloween fundraiser ends, they put up their Christmas lights for another cool fundraiser – this time for Children’s Specialized Services in Toms River.

Silveira House
9 Dipierro Dr., Monroe Twp.
100 percent of donations raised at this totally decked out house go to the American Heart Association.

An Asbury Park Nightmare Before Christmas
1107 Ridge Ave. Asbury Park
There are giant inflatables, including Mariah Carey’s sleigh ride.

South Jersey

Lights on Hiawatha Christmas Light Display
36 Hiawatha Rd., Hi-Nella
Not only can you walk through the display – but there’s a scavenger hunt, too!

The Cooks Christmas Lights
1 Carlson Ct., Jackson
More than 12,000 pixels, a projector, and thousands of lights are synced to music nightly.

Frostland Village
23 Euclid Ave., Pitman
The winner of an episode of 2024’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight” was chosen for its yard full of restored and hand-painted animatronics, a 35-foot high tree made entirely of blow molds, a full bakery scene, and a hand-built treehouse scene.

Zayas House
933 4th Ave., Toms River
21-year-old William Zayas does all of the decorating at his home – not only for Christmas, but for Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter and Halloween, too.

Holiday Light Walkthrough
579 N. Lake Shore Dr., Brick
The fourth annual display includes a scavenger hunt. On select nights in December you can come by from 6-9 pm for free, but donations of canned goods for the local food bank are welcomed.

Marlin Christmas Wonderland
1326 Laurel Ave., Sea Girt
Projection mapping and lights show off Santa’s Cabin, the Griswolds, A Christmas Story, The Grinch, and plenty more. Catch a sneak peek on our Instagram page.

Christmas House of Voorhees
24 Radcliffe Dr., Voorhees
This year, Santa’s HQ has an animatronic Disney stage, a new Ferris Wheel, Santa on his sled with his reindeers, and the occasional visit by The Grinch.

You can also follow South Jersey Christmas Lights, Holiday Lights in Ocean and Monmouth County and Christmas Lights of NJ to find even more spectacular houses!

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Read More:
Christmas House Brings Winter Wonderland Experience to NJ Mall
Ready, Set, GLOW: Tinsel Turnpike Drive-Thru Lights Up the Roadway
The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Lights in New Jersey

The post Where to See The Most Magical Christmas Houses in New Jersey appeared first on NJ Family.

For many of us, Christmas decorating is all about going big. From garland and lights to wreaths, nutcrackers and more, these New Jersey shops are big on unique and often handcrafted holiday décor. Here are some of our favorite Christmas shops all across the state:

NORTH

Holiday Tree Farm
44 Augusta Hill Rd., Augusta
Stop by the Christmas Shop after cutting down your tree for ornaments, wreaths, donuts and snacks.

Perfect Christmas Tree Farm
999 Rte. 22, Phillipsburg
After you pick one of nearly 30 varieties of evergreen trees grown on the property, add fresh garland or a custom-made wreath to your order, then stop by the Christmas Shop for free snacks and free gifts for kids.

CENTRAL

DeVries 
2442 Rte. 27, North Brunswick
The goal of the designers here is to make your home intimate and elegant for the holidays. Think ribbons, garland, faux fruits, glitter-tipped pinecones, garland, white pillar candles, glass-glove candleholders, glass candy dishes and crystal ornaments.

Brock Farms Home & Garden World
4189 Rte. 9, Freehold
A local go-to for garden supplies in the spring and summer, come winter, the 40,000-square-foot store turns into a Winter Wonderland with room after room of Christmas trees, collectibles, figurines, Christmas village houses, nutcrackers, The Grinch, wreaths, lawn displays, Santa statues and poinsettias.

Maple Leaf Farms
525 Rte. 9, Manalapan
When visiting the Christmas Wonderland for the Holiday Lights Train Ride, stop inside the market for all your Christmas and Hanukkah needs. The store itself has a country feel with lots of Americana, but the holiday decorations include trees, gnomes, menorahs, ornaments, snacks and candies. Let the smell of donuts and freshly roasted nuts lead you to the snack shop, with its cozy sit-down area.

Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm
114 Daum Rd., Manalapan
There are multiple ways to mark the holidays here. Start by cutting down your fresh Christmas tree. Then, check out the indoor and outdoor displays of wreaths, reindeer and Santa displays, lawn signs, snowglobes, ornaments and the new Grinch shop. At night, get tickets for The Village at Anne Ellen, which has a hayride that takes you to a walk-through lights display.

Seasonal World
532 Monmouth Rd., Clarksburg
The summertime HQ gets a makeover for winter, replacing pools with Santas and Christmas trees. There are Disney items, walls of magic globes and candles, giant polar bears and deer, thousands of ornaments, curios filled with nutcrackers, and unique gift ideas – including a selection of high-end quads out back.

A. Casola Farms
178 and 200 Rte. 34, Holmdel
The Winter Wonderland Superstore has novelty items like candy, stockings, candles, bells, arts and crafts, and lawn decorations. At night, come back for the Merry Mile of Lights holiday lights drive-thru.

Keris Tree Farm & Christmas Shop
848 Rte. 524, Allentown
The third-generation, 24-acre Christmas tree farm has been in operation for more than 35 years. The Christmas Shop displays unique ornaments, artisan-made crafts, wreaths, Maine balsam pillows, handmade brass bells, Byers’ Choice Carolers, Fontanini Nativity sets from Italy, mixed bundled greens, holly, winterberry, white pine roping, and decorated and undecorated wreaths.

Amato’s Garden Center
47 Deans Rhode Hall Rd., Monmouth Junction section of South Brunswick
Find a pre-lit Christmas tree to match your holiday spirit. on us. Or check out their lights, ornaments, wreaths, collectibles and grave covers.

Gasko’s Family Farm & Greenhouses
112 Federal Rd., Monroe Twp.
In its fourth generation of family farm owners, the greenhouse business shows off its colors during the holiday season. Over 100,000 poinsettias have been planted in different colors and pot sizes, in addition to rows and rows of grave blankets and wreaths made daily, firewood pallets, and Fraser fir Christmas trees. Step inside for an incredible selection of country Christmas decorations.

Stony Brook Gardens
6 Yard Rd., Pennington
The holiday shop has hand-decorated wreaths and Christmas trees on display.

SOUTH

Winterwood Gifts & Christmas Shoppes
526 Washington St., Cape May
3137 Rte. 9 South, Rio Grande
You’ll find a collection of ornaments, candles and gifts themed by baby, beach, nautical, wedding, anniversary, Cape May and Wildwood.

Candle and Christmas Shoppe
Historic Smithville, Galloway
Christmas trees are on display year-round, decorated by theme, and this time of year you can find nutcrackers, hand-painted nativity sets, caroling figures and tons of ornaments (which you can personalize). The collectibles collection includes Dept. 56, Jim Shore, Byer’s Choice, Fontanini, Annalee, Radko, Snowbabies and Disney.

The Mathis House
600 Main St., Toms River
The Jersey Shore-area B&B steps up its Christmas game during the holiday season, decorating throughout its Victorian tea room. There is a year-round Christmas shop on the third floor for all your quaint, nostalgic needs.

Johnson’s Corner Farm
133 Church Rd., Medford
There is a full bakery and farmhouse menu inside the market, which also sells farm-themed candles, decorations and figures – in addition to visits with Santa, and a lighted hayride outside around the farm.

Mia’s Christmas Gallery
755 Asbury Ave., Ocean City
The vibe here is timeless classes mixed with a beach theme. Some of their specific themes include Ocean City, Christmas, food, Jim Shore, Old World and the Philadelphia Eagles.

Green Lea
204 Rte. 73, Voorhees
The patio store opens a Winter Wonderland in December, with the largest display of artificial Christmas trees in South Jersey – and 12 that are designed by professionals. The showroom has a floral department with custom wreaths and garlands, giftware, and a selection of poinsettias.

yuleTIDE Christmas Shop
325 Ninth St., Beach Haven
The boutique-style shop is celebrating its 10th anniversary, bringing a sampling of the North Pole to Long Beach Island in Schooner’s Wharf. They sell Christmas faves like Christopher Radko, Byers Choice, Annalee, Department 56, Disney Village, Jim Shore, Old World Christmas, Noble Gems and New Jersey artist Sandra Sutherland.

Multiple Locations

Fortunoff Backyard Store
Aside from indoor and outdoor furniture, the Holiday Shop has Christmas trees, wreath, garlands, ornaments, lights, tree stands and skirts, and even containers to store your décor.

Spirit Christmas
Six locations in NJ transformed the original Spirit Halloween locations into Christmas stores, selling all sorts of stocking stuffers, holiday apparel, gifts, unique décor, inflatables and all the trimmings.

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:
These New Jersey Farms Turn Into Winter Wonderlands For the Christmas Season
Where to Cut Your Own Christmas Trees in New Jersey
Christmas Markets In and Around New Jersey to Visit This Season

The post If Holiday Decor Is Your Thing, You’ll Love These New Christmas Jersey Shops appeared first on NJ Family.