When you and the kids are craving a warm-weather escape that’s fun and low-stress, an all-inclusive can be the easiest way to truly unplug. Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancún Resort by Karisma is an all-ages, all-inclusive resort with island vibes, swaying palm trees, hut-style bars, and cute design touches like margarita-glass chandeliers.

Even the white-and-blue buildings are a nod to Jimmy Buffett’s songs, with names like Edge of Paradise, Fins Right, Come Monday, and Nothin’ but a Breeze.

The resort was renovated and reopened in 2020. A manageable size,  it’s easy to navigate, especially with kids. There are 148 suites, four pools, four restaurants, six bars, a spa, a gym, and beachfront access.

The photo ops are endless here, with murals and signs throughout the property that turn Jimmy Buffett song lyrics into colorful artwork. Everywhere you look, there’s a Buffet-inspired nod to a parrot, a surfboard, flip-flops and margaritas. And there are plenty of areas to chill out, drink in hand, listening to the manmade waterfalls or the ocean breeze.

Here’s our suggested itinerary for a weekend in Mexico:

Day 1: Arrive, Explore & Eat

Taking the shuttle from the airport to the resort is easy, though the final stretch of road to get there is very bumpy. Once you arrive, you’ll immediately notice lots of tropical décor, from a chandelier made of margarita glasses to giant swinging beds (much more comfortable than a hammock) and furniture decorated with song lyrics.

After getting our resort wristbands, we headed to our room, a spacious junior suite with its own hot tub and balcony. More nods to Buffett are abound in the form of parrot paintings (and parrot-printed bedsheets!), a margarita maker at the in-room bar, pillows embroidered with “Changes in Attitude / Changes in Latitude,” and even do-not-disturb door tags with song lyrics.

Hungry from our travels, we went down to Where is Joe Merchant?, a market area that has pastries, sandwiches and a coffee bar that is part of the resort’s all-inclusive offerings. The resort has a points system, and each room gets a set number of points per night, which kids can redeem for Mexican-brand snacks, candies, and drinks by scanning their wristbands. Other items are also available for an extra charge.

Next, we headed to the 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar for a drink (a margarita, of course!), while kids splashed around in the main pool, which also has a swim-up bar. On the opposite side of the resort, there are two more pools, including swim-up hotel rooms, and the SOS (Stranded on a Sandbar) bar. There are lifeguards on duty every day until 5 pm, and the pools close by 8 pm.

Our first dinner was at Latino, where we feasted on Mexican-Asian fusion dishes like a shrimp tempura crunchy roll that rivals sushi we’ve had stateside; a diced chicken tostada appetizer; and Dominican sancocho, that had beef, chicken, pork, cassava, plantains and corn in a soupy broth.

Vegetable Tian was made with baked eggplant and zucchini in a tomato sauce that resembled shakshuka. The fresh mahi mahi with rice and vegetables is also a must-try.

The dessert sampler, served with a decorative flip-flop, is a total crowd pleaser, too.

Day 2: Sunrise, Tacos & Culture

Sunrise at the beach is a vacay must, so we woke up early to walk down to the water. While it was seaweed season during our stay which limited swimming, we were told that the ocean is typically crystal blue and warm year-round. On most days, guests can rent a gazebo, grab a kayak or relax on the dock. You can book an excursion to go snorkeling or SCUBA diving in a nearby coral reef.

We started our day at Blended, where you pick your ingredients for a smoothie or acai bowl, take the blender over to a biking station, and literally pedal until your smoothie is ready. It’s exercise with a reward!

Then we rounded the corner to The Beach House, where we had a buffet breakfast of authentic made-to-order omelets, chilaquiles, cranberry tamales, marinated cactus, breaded chicken cutlets, arepas, guava and papaya, and kid-friendly oatmeal, cereal and bagels.

Then it was playtime. The kids had options via the Parakeet Kid’s Club, a dropoff program from 9 am to 5 pm daily for anyone 4 and older (if your kid is younger, you have to stay with them). A variety of indoor and outdoor activities include games, toys, arts and crafts and storytime. Babysitting services are available for an additional fee.

Adults can find some zen with yoga, sit down for a ceviche cooking class, or go to the Compass Bar for a tequila class and tasting.

Other activities include mandala painting, beach or pool volleyball, and Loteria (Mexican Bingo). The activities vary by day and by weather, and using the Margaritaville app is super handy.

Coming to Mexico, tacos are a must, which made lunchtime at Rita’s Taco House an easy highlight. This hotspot has a line of people waiting when it opens at noon. Overlooking the water, it has a colorful outside porch and a beautiful inside dining room.

Mini tacos came stuffed with carnitas, chorizo, shrimp, chicken, beef, and even sweet potato – but the most unexpected item was a cheeseburger, an ode to Buffett’s “Cheeseburger in Paradise.”  And of course you need to get the guac – obvi.

We had dinner at The Beach House, where a show presented Mayan culture through authentic dress, instruments, storytelling, and customs. It was a beautiful way to embrace Mexican history.

Then we moved outside to the 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar for a Marimba performance, where a musician played pop hits. There was a pop-up market set up along the walkway, selling everything from wooden tiki mask replicas to jewelry to Mexican figurines.

Day 3: Relaxation at the Spa & the ‘Cherry’ on Top

Day 3 kicked off with the kids at their club, and the adults at the spa. The hydrotherapy treatment at St. Somewhere is pure bliss: start with the dry sauna, take a cool shower, go into the steam room, then do a cold plunge before settling into the hot tub with a refreshing lemon spritzer mocktail. You can choose a massage, facial or body scrub – the 25-minute head, neck and shoulder massage was the perfect amount of time to soak in the calm. There is a salon and nail spa, or you can work out in the gym.

Then, it was back to the pool. We took some time to walk along the beach, where you can rent a cabana or stop by a stand to paint Mexican ceramics. The gift shop has Dia de los Muertos souvenirs.

Back at the room, we watched the Jimmy Buffett channel to hear his performances from around the world. We ordered room service, which included kid faves like chicken fingers, mac and cheese, mini sliders and peanut butter and jelly, plus a chocolate brownie that was more like cake.

At night, Frank & Lola’s was the most elevated meal we had, even though the dress code is still “flip-flop friendly” and kids are welcome. We decided to carb load and share ravioli with spinach and ricotta, spicy rigatoni, fusilli with pesto sauce, and lasagna Bolognese.

How could you not top it off with a Mexican cannoli (which tasted more like chocolate than cinnamon)?

The nightcap again was at 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar, with a performance by Cherry Lovers Band. There is plenty of comfy seating around the bar so kids can come, too.

Info & Details

Margaritaville Island Reserve Resort by Karisma, Riviera Cancun, is located in the Puerto Morelos section of Cancun. It’s about 25 minutes from the airport. The hotel partners with BRX for shuttle service, which you can book at the same time as your reservation. The airport can be quite overwhelming with the amount of taxi drivers, especially if you’ve never flown into Cancun International, so we recommend this service.

There is a sister Margaritaville property five minutes away in Riviera Maya that is adults-only, so be sure to book the right property, and advise your driver of the correct address.

About 25 minutes away, Karisma operates Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts in Riviera Maya for even more of a kid-friendly experience. At this other all-inclusive family resort, SpongeBob SquarePants, the PAW Patrol and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles join you on your vacation. Cool off in the 6-acre Aqua Nick waterpark, get slimed during a game show, let the kids run loose in the clubhouse-slash-artist’s studio Club Nick, and get a manicure at Naay Spa.

As an added incentive, as part of the Autism Double-Checked program, the staff at Karisma Hotels & Resorts properties are fully certified in “Assisting Guests with Autism,” thanks to an Autism Concierge.

More Fun in Cancún

There’s plenty to do outside your resort of choice. Consider a day trip to the beachy downtown of Playa del Carmen. There are blocks of shops, restaurants, gelato shops, coffee bars and nightclubs.

Another popular place to stroll is Parque de las Palapas, a central plaza in downtown Cancún that’s packed with food vendors, shopping stalls, and a schedule of festivals and events.

For more things to do with the kids:

• Snorkel along the coral reef, or swim with the dolphins at Xcaret Park or Xel-Ha.
• Swimming in natural pools and caves of Cenote Dos Ojos or Gran Cenote offers cooler waters.
• Visit Ventura Park for water slides or ziplining.
• See animals up close at the Interactive Aquarium Cancún.
• Explore 500 life-sized sculptures at the MUSA Underwater Museum of Art.

Isla Mujeres is worth the 30-minute ferry ride: considered to be “eye candy” because of its colorful streets, the area has two scenic promenades along the Malecons, statues of Mexican heroes and Mayan goddesses, murals that capture the essence of the island, a large open square and pedestrian-only street, and gorgeous architecture at Palacia Municipal and the Catholic Church. Plus, from May to September, you can snorkel with whale sharks.

Consider a day trip to Chichén Itzá in the Yucatan, where you will see ancient Mayan ruins, stone carvings and ancient pyramids— especially El Castillo. It’s one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.

Where to Eat

Señor Frog’s is synonymous with the islands, and has a party vibe plus a Kids Menu that includes burgers, chicken tenders and fettuccine.

Porfirio’s Cancún has tacos al pastor, premium steaks and traditional antojitos (“little cravings”) that match the stunning views of Laguna Nichupte.

Le Chique is a Michelin-starred restaurant that has exceptional entrees, desserts and cocktails using ingredients from the Yucatan Peninsula– but is more for date night than a family adventure.

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The post Why This Margaritaville Resort in Cancún Is an Easy and Relaxing Family Escape appeared first on NJ Family.

From guided first day hikes throughout NJ parks to free admission to select museums for Bank of America, Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank cardholders during the first weekend of the month, these activities during January have no admission fee.

January 1

Guided First Day Hikes
New Jersey State Parks are celebrating the new year and nation’s 250th anniversary with free, guided, first-day hikes through one of New Jersey’s state parks, forests or historic sites as part of America’s State Parks First Day Hikes program. See the full list here.

January 1 – 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, 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.

January 2 – 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. 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.

January 3 – 4

Bank of America Museums on Us Weekend
Multiple locations
Bank of America, Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank cardholders can receive free general admission to various cultural attractions on the first full weekend of each month.

Here are the NJ museums:

• Hunterdon Art Museum, 7 Lower Center St., Clinton
• Liberty Science Center, 222 Jersey City Blvd., Jersey City
• Montclair Art Museum, 3 South Mountain Ave., Montclair
• Morris Museum, 6 Normandy Heights Road, Morristown
• The Newark Museum of Art, 49 Washington St., Newark

January 9-10, 16-17

Fire & Frost Fun Winter Festival
Peddler’s Village, Lahaska, PA
Watch as artists carve blocks of ice into sculptures, while others breathe and juggle fire. The kids can go on the Find Jack Frost scavenger hunt, while you grab them hot cocoa or cider from the Village Green. The shops and restaurants will be open late.

January 17

Special Olympics New Jersey Polar Bear Plunge
Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood
Plungers should dress up in costume, break out the plunge props, and make banners and signs before jumping into the icy waters of the Atlantic. After, plungers (and kids under 12) and have lunch inside the convention center. Note: spectators are frees, but plungers must fundraise.

Pier Village Ice Carving Competition 
The Blue Wave (Behind Wave Resort) 12 pm – 3 pm 
(Rain Date: January 18)
Watch skilled ice sculptors transform massive blocks of ice into stunning works of art. After enjoying the ice displays, spend the day shopping, dining out and gathering around  oceanfront firepits to warm up, sip hot cocoa, and enjoy the festive winter atmosphere.

January 31

The 33rd Fire & Ice Festival
Downtown Mount Holly, 10 am – 4 pm
Watch ice block carvers, participate in a chili tasting contest, make winter crafts, buy from area artisans and vendors, sample delights from the food trucks & beer tent, photo ops with characters, learn from Revolutionary War Re-enactors/demonstrators, watch dog sled demonstrations and more.

Ongoing Through 2026

Springsteen in Long Branch: An exhibition telling the story of Born to Run
Long Branch Arts & Cultural Center, Long Branch
Fifty years ago, Bruce Springsteen wrote the “Born to Run” album in West End, Long Branch. A new exhibit showcases his life at the Jersey Shore through photos, posters, album promo materials and artifacts – like his green drum set from his first band, and a replica of the guitar used on the album cover.

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Read More:
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The post The Best Free Things to Do in New Jersey in January (2026) appeared first on NJ Family.

It’s the last weekend of 2025, and snow is on the way Friday night into Saturday! Here are 85+ events and things to do before and after the storm.

WEEKEND

Winter WonderLights
Middlesex County Fairgrounds, East Brunswick
Wednesday – Sunday
Drive through 1.5 million animated lights that are synchronized to music from a local radio station. There are sparkling tunnels, 20-foot Christmas trees, towering 30-foot trees; winter wonderland scenes depicting Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Diwali; and a tribute to first responders and military heroes.

Santa’s Winter Wonderland
Watermark, 78 South St. at Pier 15, New York
Wednesday – Sunday
The whimsical waterfront holiday installation has dining, entertainment, Christmas trees, games, activities, heated glasshouses and lights displays, all with breathtaking views of NYC.

Patriots Week
Trenton
Friday – Saturday
Celebrate Trenton’s role in the Revolutionary War. The Colonial Ball on Friday is an era-themed party. The Battles of Trenton Reenactments take place at two times on Saturday; follow the soldiers as they march out to fight on the original battlefields. A “mini” look at American history takes place during “The Trouble with Trenton” interactive puppet show on Saturday.

Barnyard Under the Stars
Brookhollow’s Barnyard, Boonton
Friday – Saturday
Start with a 5-minute Holiday Thomas the Train Ride, then snap a holiday photo at the barnyard. You’ll also meet goofy goats, silly sheep and crazy cows who love to be fed snacks.

Night of Lights Light Show Extravaganza
Creamy Acres Farm, Mullica Hill
Friday – Saturday
The 100-acre dairy farm becomes a Christmas wonderland with sparkling light displays and musical dancing tree light shows that you view from inside your car. After the 1.5-mile drive, stroll through the indoor walk-thru where you’ll see a life-sized snowglobe, a narrated Nativity scene and a singing Christmas tree before posing with Santa.

Winter Break Open Swim
Five Star Swim School
Saturday: Eatontown
Sunday: Cherry Hill
Kids can swim in a heated indoor pool with Christmas floaties, and then make holiday crafts.

New Jersey Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown
Friday – Saturday
Ballerinas glide across the stage as Tchaikovsky’s iconic score is performed live by New Jersey Symphony.

Holiday Lights Hayride
Norz Hill Farm, Hillsborough
Friday – Sunday
The festive holiday lights display is seen from the comforts of a tractor-drawn hayride. Check out the animals and pop by Santa’s cornfield office. When you get back to the farmhouse, warm up by the fire with cocoa and s’mores.

Holiday Square Market
Magnolia Landing, Jersey City
Friday – Sunday
This New York City-style holiday market will have decorations, festive stalls and a curated lineup of food and merchant vendors.

Old-Fashioned Christmas on the Farm & Walk-Through Light Show
Allaire Community Farm, Wall Twp.
Friday – Sunday
Stroll through the beautifully lit 25-acre farm, visit a festive 100-year-old barn-turned-Christmas market, watch classic holiday movies, marvel at the model train exhibit, and bring the kids to the new interactive game area. There are yuletide wagon rides and the return of the Polar Express Train, featuring dazzling light tunnels and a breathtaking 45-foot Santa.

Home for the Holidays With the Calamari Sisters
Broadway Theatre, Pitman
Friday – Sunday
The Calamari Sisters, who are public access cable TV stars, bring a Christmas show to the stage with Italian recipes, anecdotes, singing, dancing and comedy.

NY Waterway’s Winter Waterway Holiday Market
Midtown Terminal Ferry, NYC
Friday – Sunday
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).

Mariah Carey’s Holiday Bar
Untitled Hotel, New York City
Friday – Sunday
Fans of the self-described Queen of Christmas can write a letter to Mariah, sing along to her holiday hits, sip on Black Irish cocktails and take a photo with an album backdrop.

Seas & Greetings
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, Pt. Pleasant
Saturday – Sunday
Holiday activities get a Jersey Shore twist, including appearances by Diving Santa, pictures with holiday princesses, the Bubble Snow Show, a holiday magic show, Fishmas Tales and ice skating.

Winter Wonderland Before Time
Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University, Mantua Twp.
Saturday – Sunday
Celebrate the season with a prehistoric twist; the museum will be decked out in dinosaur-themed holiday décor, and there will be activities like an indoor snowball frenzy, campfire storytime, dinosaur “snow” digs and ornament-making.

A Christmas Carol
Matthews Theatre, McCarter Theatre Center, Princeton
Saturday – Sunday
The holiday tradition returns to the stage. Sunday includes a 1 pm relaxed performance.

Santa Express
Black River and Western Railroad, Flemington
Saturday – Sunday
When your kid boards the train, they’ll get a souvenir golden ticket before they meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. At the station stop in Ringoes, have a cookie and hot cocoa before checking out the model train displays.

FRIDAY

Santa Glow Roll Family Fun Skate
Millennium Skate World, Camden
Santa will join you on the ice for a glow skating party that lights up the rink. There will be music and specials at the café.

SATURDAY

PJ’s and Pancakes
The Pendry at Natirar, Peapack-Gladstone
This PJ-clad pancake breakfast takes place in The Gallery, featuring classic pancakes and toppings, and a family-friendly morning of winter break fun.

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.

SUNDAY

A Very GRACE-Ful Winter’s Tale
Staten Island Children’s Museum, Staten Island, NY
The GRACE Foundation’s Grace-ful Glee Club, whose choir members have autism spectrum disorder, created their own storybook of holiday songs. You’ll have access to the museum exhibits, too.

ONGOING

Astra Lumina: An Enchanted Night Walk Amongst the Stars
Abington Art Center, Jenkintown, PA
December 24-31
The hour-long, outdoor experience uses nature and technology to tell the story of visiting stars descending to Earth before rising again to the night sky; it’s a one-mile pathway of cosmic light and sound.

Santa’s Secret Immersive Holiday Experience
Columbus Circle, New York City
December 25-31
To get to this speakeasy, you have to follow a winding path through eight immersive holiday installations – from gingerbread girls to rugged lumberjacks to living snowglobes. When you arrive, there will be Christmas-themed cocktails, fine dining, a live band, and a variety show performance.

Holiday Model Train Show
Barron Arts Center, Woodbridge
December 26-30 
Mike Gelesky designed and set up the entire display with lots of holiday cheer to celebrate the display’s 35th year.

Christmas Fantasy With Lights
Storybook Land, Egg Harbor Twp.
December 26-30 
Every night at dusk, Santa will wave his magic wand and light up the theme park. You can meet him after, or take Santa’s Fantasy Flight.

Winter Wonderland Illuminated Walking Trail
Indian Acres Tree Farm, Medford
December 26-30 
Stroll through the woods and pass by snowmen and trees made with upcycled materials from the farm. You’ll see a fairy garden and a secret gnome village. Waddle past Penguin Igloo Town or fly by Birdhouse Row. There will be a tunnel of lights that snows down on you.

The Village at Anne Ellen
Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm, Manalapan
December 26-30 
A hayride brings you to a village of 400,000 lights. Among the new attractions are an ice castle filled with penguins, and a Bear Workshop to make your own teddy bear. Old faves include the life-sized gingerbread house and a post office where you can send letters to Santa.

Orchard of Lights
Demarest Farms, Hillsdale
December 26-30 
Take a ride through 32 acres of holiday lights and then warm up by the fire pit with hot cocoa. There’s a farm market, pictures with Santa, make your own s’mores, and Santa’s singing reindeer.

Holiday Lights Harbor Lights Cruises
Pier 83, New York City
December 26-30 
Holiday Harbor Lights Cruises offer a narrated view of the NYC skyline and the Statue of Liberty. A special cruise on NYE includes a three-course dinner buffet, live DJ, open bar, views of New York’s fireworks, and a Champagne toast at midnight.

Hometown Pride: The Power of Sports in Middlesex County
Cornelius Low House Museum, Piscataway
December 26-28, 31
Middlesex County’s sports connections include the first-ever college football game played between Rutgers University and Princeton University; professional athletes and Olympians, Paralympians, and Special Olympians. You will see high school trophies from the 1930s to the present, NFL golden footballs for pro athletes, balls from the highest-scoring high school athletes, uniforms from the 1930s to the present, and more.

Boardwalk Basketball Classic
Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood
December 26-31
One of the largest holiday co-ed high school basketball tournaments in the country comes to the Jersey Shore – with about 1,000 players.

Christmas House
Freehold Raceway Mall, Freehold Twp.
December 26-31
Walk through a series of 10 rooms set up like movie scenes, with themes like the North Pole Movie Theater, the Christmas Eve Room, the Elf Command Center, the Harry Potter Rom, Santa’s Workshop and The Nightmare Before Christmas Room. There will be trivia and lots of photo ops.

Merry Mile of Lights
A. Casola Farms, Holmdel
December 26-31
The mile-long drive-through holiday trail has millions of dazzling lights and festive displays that you can see from your car. Any night, you can get a free hot chocolate from the Winter Wonderland Super Store. Plus, Friday to Sunday, trail riders also get free pictures with Santa. There will be free kids’ crafts, too.

Santa’s Steam Ride Train Ride
New Hope Railroad, New Hope
December 26-31
The restored passenger trains (which date back to the first half of the 20th century) are warm and cozy and decorated for the season. Cookies will be served on board, live music will play, and everyone will sing along to holiday tunes.

Holiday Adventure
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
December 26 – January 1
Christmas meets science along the LSC Winter Train Ride that stops in the Art and Science Pavilion, by sock skating on a synthetic rink, at live science shows and winter animal presentations – plus during holiday laser shows.

Kwanzaa
The African American Museum, Philadelphia, PA
December 26 – January 1
Learn about the seven principles of the holiday through music, dance, storytelling, kinara lightings and craft sessions.

Jurassic Quest
NJ Convention & Expo Center, Edison
December 27-30
Get up close to lifelike dinosaurs and take part in a bunch of activities, including digging for fossils, meeting adorable baby dinos, riding on some of the giant dinosaur replicas and building their own exhibits in the LEGO zone. There are science exhibits, science stations, floor puzzles, a glow zone, dinosaur bounce houses, and even a 35-foot derby track.

Harbaugh Village North Pole Experience
Harbaugh Village, Mullica Hill
December 27-31
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.

Christmas Train Village
Duggan Hall, Spring Lake
December 27-31
The Duggan Building exhibits a re-creation of the beautiful town of Spring Lake via a train village.

Miracle Bar
Miracle on Centre at Cowan’s Public, 229 Centre St., Nutley
Miracle on Mercer at Franklin Social, 292 Barrow St., Jersey City
Miracle on George Street at Catherine Lombardi’s, 3 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick
Miracle on Bloomfield at The Parkside Social, 706 Bloomfield Ave., Verona
Miracle at The Bistro, Inside iPlay America, 108 Schanck Rd., Freehold
Miracle at Avenue, Avenue, Pier Village, 23 Ocean Ave. N., Long Branch
Miracle at Parkside Tavern, Parkside Tavern, 9 Speedwell Ave., Morristown
Through December 31
While the decor is Instaworthy on its own, the true star of the show is the cocktail menu at each location. Noteworthy drinks at Miracle locations include the Christmapolitan, a twist on the classic made with vodka, elderflower, dry vermouth, spiced cranberry sauce, rosemary, lime and absinthe mist; and for those who have been naughty, there’s the Hot Buttered Rum, served hot. Other deliciously merry cocktails such as Carol Barrell, Snowball Old Fashioned, Koala Kooler and Christmas Cricket are sold in mugs and glasses you can purchase for your at-home Christmas parties.

The Miracle on South 13th Street Holiday Light Display
1600 Block of S. 13th St., Philadelphia, PA
Through January 1
Every holiday season, a group of neighbors go all-out with their Christmas decorations, offering a massive lights display that you can view while walking through the neighborhood.

Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market
Dilworth Park, Philadelphia, PA
Through January 1 (closed Dec. 25)
More than 50 local artisans, designers, crafters and jewelers will be set up inside picturesque white wooden booths, adorned with the glow of Moravian stars.

Marlin Christmas Wonderland 
1326 Laurel Avenue in Sea Girt
Through January
This year’s over-the-top Christmas display uses projection mapping and a light show to feature scenes from various Christmas movies. Tune your radio to 88.9 FM to hear synchronized music to the lights.

Christmas Tram Tours
Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, Shawnee on Delaware, PA
Select dates, through January 3
Board their version of the Polar Express, which takes you along a lighted trail to Christmas Island, where holiday fun includes caroling, cute scenes, photo ops and a visit to Santa’s Workshop.

Holiday Bricktacular
LEGOLAND New York Resort, Goshen, NY
Select dates, through January 3
There will be a tree lighting with LEGO Santa, brick-building activities and lots of holiday lights. New this year is Holiday Headquarters in LEGO City, plus decorated Brick Street, Bricktopia, LEGO Ninjago World and MiniLand.

Kringle Cove
Whitechapel Projects, Long Branch
Through January 3
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.

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, NY
Select dates, through January 3
This impressive neighborhood is lit up with millions of lights, inflatables, displays and activations. Walk along or take a bus tour through the neighborhood.

Illumination
Coca-Cola Park, Allentown, PA
Select dates, through January 3
Lehigh Valley shines bright with 1.5 million lights synchronized to music. But that’s not all: there are curling lanes, Santa’s Polar Express, hayrides with Mrs. Claus, a carousel, Nutcracker Suites that include a holiday buffet, and igloos.

Winter Light Spectacular
Lehigh Valley Zoo, Schnecksville, PA
Select dates, through January 3
This event has 1.2 million sparkling lights and displays placed throughout the zoo. Visitors will find classic holiday scenes, multiple fire pits, hot chocolate and s’mores, performances by different princesses, and photos with Santa.

Koziar’s Christmas Village
Koziar’s Farm, Bernville, PA
Select dates, through January 3
There are more than a million lights that illuminate the property, lining everything from the lake to the barns to the walkways. Walk around at your own pace to see the international Christmas displays, train sets and festive gift shops.

Holiday Lights
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, West Orange
Select dates, through January 3
Take a stroll through the zoo at night, which will be lit up by thousands of sparkling 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.

Skylands Stadium Light Show & Christmas Village
Skylands Stadium, Augusta
Select dates, through January 3 
See more than 2 million lights in this drive-thru. In the Christmas Village, take a family photo and stop by the Hot Chocolate Bar and Winter Beer Garden.

Magic of Lights
PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel
Through January 3
This drive-thru has more than a mile of lights displays. About halfway through your drive, park at the Holiday Village, where you will see Santa, go ice skating, sit down for an outdoor holiday movie, and do arts and crafts.

LumiNature
Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia, PA
Select dates, through January 3
There will be light tunnels, sculptures, Christmas trees and nature-themed displays throughout the zoo. You can meet Santa and watch performances.

U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland
Holland Ridge Farms, Cream Ridge
Through January 4
The walk-through event has more than 50,000 illuminated tulips lighting up the flower fields, a light show from the windmill; illuminated pony rides on the weekends; interactive LED seesaws, swings, spinners and slides; photo ops with Santa inside his workshop; character meet-and-greets with Olaf, Elsa and The Grinch; magical snow flurry stations; and “snowball fights” inside a giant igloo snowball pit.

Bergen County’s Winter Wonderland
Van Saun County Park, Paramus
Through January 4
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.

Newark Winter Village
Mulberry Commons Park, Newark
Select dates, through January 4
The open-air festival in the downtown offers ice skating, go karts, a marketplace, private heated pods and igloos.

GLOW: Light Show
217 Berlin-Cross Keys Rd., Washington Twp.
Through January 4
The drive-thru experience has 2 million lights over the course of one mile. The displays are synched to music that you broadcast through your car radio. This year’s theme is Tinsel Turnpike, paying homage to all things Jersey.

Grinch’s Grotto
Cucina Calandra, Fairfield
Through January 4
Your heart will grow three sizes during lunch, happy hour or dinner when you come to this Grinch-themed pop-up. Specialty cocktails will be made with flavors like cranberry, cinnamon and peppermint.

Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Radio City Music Hall, New York City
Select dates, through January 5
This New York City holiday classic starring the Radio City Rockettes – with their infamous kickline —features The Parade of the Wooden Soldiers and a Living Nativity.

Big Apple Circus
Lincoln Center, New York, NY
Through January 4
The beloved circus acts return for 7 weeks, with acrobatics, high-flying stunts and comedic action.

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane
Hershey Park, Hershey, PA
Through January 4
Chocolate lovers can enjoy their favorite rides, visit with Santa and his nine reindeer, meet Hershey characters dressed in their holiday best, and see more than 5 million sparkling lights.

A Very Furry Christmas Celebration
Sesame Place, Langhorne, PA
Through January 4
Santa’s Grand Illumination kicks off the holiday season, which includes a Hanukkah celebration, Santa’s ‘Twas the Night Celebration on Christmas Eve, a Kwanzaa celebration, and New Year’s Eve fireworks.

Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
Bronx Zoo, Bronx, NY
Select dates, through January 4
Millions of lights twinkle and hundreds of illuminated animals sparkle as you walk through six lantern trails. The Holiday Train and Enchanted Sea return, while new this year are snow tube slides, an ice throne and virtual snowball throwing.

Lightscape
Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Brooklyn, NY
Through January 4
For this year’s fifth installation, the glittering winter trail will take you to an enchanted forest filled with art, music and special attractions.

Snowland Celebration
Great Wolf Lodge, Scotrun, PA
Through January 4
Known mostly for its indoor and outdoor water parks, Snowland takes the resort’s activities to a new level with visits with Santa, the Frosty Fest Family Dance Party, Snowland bingo and trivia, competition games, a themed scavenger hunt, and ‘Twas the Night Before Snowland Yoga Tails.

Shine Bright at Hudson Yards Presented by Wells Fargo
Hudson Yards, New York City
Through January 5
More than 2 million twinkling lights (that’s 115 miles!) and 725 evergreen trees set the stage for ice skating, photos with Santa, holiday shopping – and even Santa’s Secret Speakeasy for adults, plus a special menorah lighting.

Holiday Light Show
Shady Brook Farm, Yardley, PA
Through January 5
The farm will be outfitted with 4 million dazzling lights, which you’ll see as you drive through the pathways or aboard the open-air wagon. Plan some time to see Santa’s Village, where there’s a Candy Cane Lane lights walk-thru, fire pits, and a gift shop.

Light Show on the Lake
Historic Smithville, Galloway
Through January 5
More than 120 Christmas trees decorated with over 50,000 Christmas lights magically float when darkness falls: a show of lights and music is played across Lake Meone.

Frostland Village
23 Euclid Ave., Pitman
Through the first week of January
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.

Pillsbury Let It Dough Suite
Club Wyndham Midtown 45, New York City
Through January 6
Designed to be a holiday baking escape, you can rent this suite for two or three nights, and be treated to all the Pillsbury cinnamon rolls and ready-to-bake cookies you’d like. The room itself features icing-draped walls, a cinnamon roll–inspired bedroom, frosted windows, and the scent of freshly baked cookies throughout. You can also call the Cookie Concierge to have additional baking supplies delivered on demand.

Fanwood’s Famous Christmas Houses
83 and 87 Paterson Rd., Fanwood
Through January 8
Every year, Gregory Roser creates a holiday display with 30,000 sparkling lights. Santa will make a special visit on Dec. 6.  Monetary donations are accepted on site to support the New Jersey Institute for Disabilities.

Disney’s Frozen
Paper Mill Playhouse, Millburn
Through January 11
The beloved movie starring Elsa, Anna and Olaf comes to the main stage. Certain dates will accommodate those needing ASL interpretation, open captioning and autism sensitivities.

Festival of Trees
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
Wednesdays – Sundays, through January 11
Seventeen trees and mantels will be decorated and displayed throughout the museum, created by local community groups. Themes include All Aboard to Movie Magic; Family Game Night; A Tribute to Pollinators; and Fruit of the Holiday Spirit.

Let It Glow
Bergen County Zoo, Paramus
Thursdays-Sundays, through January 11
As you walk through the zoo or ride on the train, you’ll see 30 larger-than-life scenes decorated with animal-themed lanterns.

Holidig Drive-Thru Holiday Light Show
Diggerland, West Berlin
Select dates, through January 11
Marvel at the lights, holiday displays and tunnels as you drive along 1.25 miles inside America’s only construction-based theme and water parks.

Holiday Train Show
New York Botanical Garden, Bronx, NY
Through January 11
Either during the day or on select Holiday Train Nights, catch model trains as they zip through a display of almost 200 replicas of New York landmarks, each re-created from natural materials such as birch bark, pinecones, palm fronds and cinnamon sticks.

A Longwood Christmas
Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, PA
Through January 11
Stroll through floating floral designs, marvel at festive trees and step into an extravagant floral shop. Outside, take in stunning light displays and treehouses. There are a half-million lights across hundreds of acres, plus fountain shows.

Vintner Wonderland
Renault Winery & Resort, Egg Harbor City
Select dates, through January 19
The winery grounds are open to families for ice skating, a holiday market, fire pits and live music. Special events include the Festival of Trees, live music at the rink, Stories with Santa, Cookies & Cocktails and an hors d’oeuvres masterclass.

Antique Toy Train Show
The Museum of American History, Deptford
Thursday to Sunday, through February 1
See toy trains from the 1930s, ‘40s and ‘50s, including Lionel, Marx and American Flyer engines. Plasticville buildings from the 1950s will give the platforms a vintage holiday appearance.

Winter at Dilworth Park
Dilworth Park, Philadelphia, PA
Select dates, through February
The heart of Center City comes alive with outdoor ice skating, a topiary garden, the Wintergarden, a chalet-style cabin, charming fire pits, the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market, and Breakfast with Santa.

The Rink at Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center, NYC
Through March
The twinkling lights on the magnificent Christmas tree are lit; view its beauty while you ice skate or chill in a rinkside chalet. See the beautiful golden angel statues in the courtyard, and walk down the block to Saks Fifth Avenue for its holiday lights show on the building’s façade.

Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
Bryant Park, New York City
Through March
This Manhattan park is home to the largest free-admission ice skating rink in NYC. Relax rinkside at The Lodge while taking in the splendor of the giant Christmas tree. Shop more than 180 vendors selling gifts from around the world. And check out the bumper cars on ice.

Outdoor Winter Wonderland
Middletown Sports Camp, Middletown
Through March 8
This will be the place to skate, sip and shop during the holiday season, with its new winter festival that includes festive music, lights and décor; vendors; fire pits; igloos; and the center of it all, the outdoor ice skating rink.

Springsteen in Long Branch: An exhibition telling the story of Born to Run
Long Branch Arts & Cultural Center, Long Branch
Ongoing through 2026
Fifty years ago, Bruce Springsteen wrote the “Born to Run” album in West End, Long Branch. A new exhibit showcases his life at the Jersey Shore through photos, posters, album promo materials and mementos – like his green drum set from his first band, and a replica of the guitar used on the album cover.

SUE The T. Rex Experience
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Through May 25, 2026
The world’s most complete, most well-preserved T. rex skeleton is making a stop at LSC so you can see her bones, hear her growl and smell her breath (seriously!). There will be fossils on display, projection mapping of other prehistoric creatures, and a life-sized fleshed-out replica to show what the creature’s life was like in the Cretaceous era.

Q: What are some of the best things to do in New Jersey this weekend (December 26-28, 2025)?

A: This weekend (December 26-28, 2025) features family-friendly things to do across New Jersey and in NY and PA. Highlights include New Jersey Ballet’s The Nutcracker at Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown, Winter WonderLights at the Middlesex County Fairgrounds in East Brunswick, Patriots Week in Trenton, and the Night of Lights Light Show Extravaganza at Creamy Acres Farm in Mullica Hill.

Q: What parts of New Jersey do these events cover?

Celebrate Kwanzaa at These Events In and Around New Jersey

Where to Spend New Year’s Eve (and Day) in New Jersey

The post Best Things to Do in New Jersey This Weekend (December 26-28, 2025) appeared first on NJ Family.

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.

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 NJ Restaurants Will Serve Up Your New Year’s Dinners
Where to Take a Hike in New Jersey
85 Things to Do Indoors in NJ

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.

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:
This Year’s Must-See Holiday Attractions
Our Mega Guide to Holiday Lights in New Jersey

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

If you’re planning to celebrate the holidays at a restaurant this year, these spots are offering special menus for Christmas and New Year’s. Reservations go fast, so call ASAP.

Allendale Social
9 Franklin Tpke., Allendale
For New Year’s Eve, the restaurant will offer a four-course prix fixe menu, including Spanish Grilled Octopus, Wagyu Beef Carpaccio, Short Rib Tagliatelle, Black Truffle Torchia Pasta, Slow-Cooked Ora King Salmon, Grilled Ibérica Pork Chop, Lobster and Salmon Risotto, and Prime Brandt Beef Filet Mignon, followed by desserts such as Gelato and Hazelnut Chocolate Gâteau.

Aubrey’s Corner
527 Morris Ave., Summit
If you want a more relaxed Christmas Eve, the newly opened Aubrey’s Corner will be open for regular dinner service, with its French onion soup and butternut squash lasagna on the menu.

Avenue Restaurant
23 Ocean Ave., Long Branch
Christmas Eve will be a four-course dinner, while the New Year’s Eve Celebration Package includes a premium open bar package, a specially curated menu and a live band.

Bar Mutz
90 Center Ave., Westwood
On the night before Santa’s arrival, Bar Mutz will serve caviar-topped mozzarella sticks and Mutz Water shots in addition to their full menu. Then, on New Year’s Eve, it’s a two-part celebration: three early dinner seatings followed by a late-night fête with hors d’oeuvres, caviar, cocktails, a DJ, and plenty of horns and confetti to welcome in 2026.

The Black Horse Pub
1 W. Main St., Mendham
Christmas Eve specials include shrimp cocktail, duck confit fried rice balls, crisp pork belly, mussels, crab-crusted filet mignon, roasted porchetta, boneless prime rib and pan-roasted halibut. New Year’s Eve specials include potatoes with caviar, crab salad, grilled fennel-spiced quail, lobster beignets, honey-spiced duck breast, boneless prime rib, pan-roasted halibut and braised short rib. Jersey Bound will perform before the midnight toast.

Blu on the Hudson
1200 Harbor Blvd., Weehawken
Executive Chef Juan Carlos “JC” Ortega will serve a three-course prix fixe menu on Christmas Eve, which includes his signature-style seafood-focused American-Mediterranean cuisine as well as special holiday dishes. Christmas specials include starters like Seven Fish Nigiri and Short Rib Raviolo; entrées such as King Salmon and 8-ounce Wagyu Beef Cheeks; and Bûche de Noel Tiramisu or Eggnog Panna Cotta for dessert. You can also order à la carte from a large selection of sushi rolls, pasta, large-format steaks, and more. The restaurant will be open on Christmas Day as well. Then, two elegant dinner seatings are followed by a New Year’s Ball Drop Celebration. Start with a three-course prix fixe dinner, then stay for live performances, DJ sets, and views of the fireworks lighting up the Hudson River. There will be a Champagne toast at midnight.

Calandra’s Il Vecchio Café
234 Bloomfield Ave., Caldwell
The Holly Jolly Lounge will be open through January 4, bringing lots of Christmas cheer to the restaurant through their annual pop-up bar. Celebrate early on New Year’s Eve with a la carte dining or a family buffet; or get tickets for the Adults Only Midnight Celebration, which includes a buffet, open bar, DJ, dancing, party favors, and a Champagne toast at midnight.

Calandra’s Mediterranean Grill
118 Rte. 46 East, Fairfield
NYE 2026 kicks off with an afternoon family buffet, and switches over to an adults-only party with a dinner buffet and dancing.

Charlie’s Place
18 W. Prospect St., 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.

Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar
Tropicana Atlantic City, 2801 Pacific Ave., 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.

Cucina Calandra
216 Rte. 46 East, Fairfield
The Grinch’s Grotto has been all the rage this season, outfitting the bar with decorations that would make The Mean One envious! A la carte dining on NYE starts at 12 pm. For the 21+ crowd, the Executive Lounge Party starts with dinner at 4:30 pm and continues with a party until 2 am; or the Grand Ballroom Bash at 8:30 pm includes a dinner buffet, open bar, DJ, dancing and Champagne toast at midnight.

Drifthouse
1485 Ocean Ave., Sea Bright
Christmas Eve offers a three-course prix fixe for adults or two-course prix fixe for kids, with tableshare items like crispy calamari or chilled seafood; appetizers like sunchoke soup, pretzel-crusted crab cake, seafood salad or dry-aged carpaccio; mains like crab risotto, veal osso buco, lamb shank or salmon with cannellini beans and spinach; sides like truffle fries and potato au gratin; and Buche de Noel, flourless chocolate cake or pumpkin cheesecake for dessert. The New Year’s Eve three-course prix fixe with Champagne toast includes your choice of tuna tartar, lobster dumplings, beet salad, oysters and caviar; scallops and lobster, Bell chicken, beef Wellington, squid ink fra diablo or loli pop short rib; brussels sprouts, truffle fries and mac and cheese; and a dessert trio.

The Feathered Fox
84 Audrey Zapp Dr., Jersey City
Going all-in for New Year’s Eve, the party here will have live music, a midnight Champagne toast, and luxe specials like caviar service and prime rib.

Felina
18 Prospect St., Ridgewood
Christmas Eve dinner will be the Feast of the Seven Fishes: oysters, insalata di mare, linguine alle vongole, pan-roasted branzino, shrimp fra diavolo, and panettone bread pudding. You can also order these a la carte. The New Year’s Eve three-course dinner includes antipasti; a choice of lobster ravioli, prosciutto-wrapped cod, roasted cauliflower steak, or filet mignon as your main; or Sicilian cannoli or chocolate mousse to top off the night.

Gabriella’s Italian Steakhouse
447 Rte. 35, Red Bank
Picture Santa taking Mrs. Claus out for an elevated date for Christmas: think premium cuts of meat, fresh seafood at the raw bar and signature cocktails.

Halifax
225 River St., Hoboken
On Christmas Eve, Halifax will have a specially curated menu. Halifax will have two dinner seatings on New Year’s: a first seating with a limited a la carte menu (crab wonton with snow crab and caviar; burrata salad with black truffle and pomegranate; mushroom risotto; halibut with lobster bisque; slow‑roasted dry‑age steak; lemon ricotta torte); and a later four-course dinner with open bar and access to a party in The Living Room (where there will be another open bar, passed canapes, a live DJ and dancing).

Heirloom Kitchen
3853 Rte. 516, Old Bridge
The Feast of Seven Fishes is presented on Sundays in December, featuring oysters, crab and mortadella dip, shrimp ravioli, octopus, cioppino and panettone. Then, on Christmas Eve, you have the choice of a seasonal tasting menu or the Seven Fishes. Ring in 2026 with a three-course prix fixe dinner, or a five-course chef’s tasting menu with midnight toast on New Year’s Eve.

Il Mulino
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, 1000 Boardwalk at Virginia Avenue, Atlantic City
The Feast of the Seven Fishes included jumbo shrimp oreganata, lobster ragu, black ink linguini with rock shrimp, red snapper livornese, swordfish medallions, and panettone with zabaglione.

Kona Grill
511 Rte. 1, Iselin section of Woodbridge
The Holiday Cheers Menu is available from December 4 to 30, and includes brie and crab stuffed salmon, pumpkin lobster and mushroom ravioli, Santa’s Eggnog, Catch Me If You Can (gingerbread old-fashioned), a holiday martini (with vodka and peppermint Rumchata), pumpkin spice margarita and pumpkin mocha martini. There will be a special Christmas-only menu on December 24 and 25, and you can hang out on New Year’s Eve.

Lita
1055 Rte. 34, Aberdeen
Chef David Viana will create a three-course savory Christmas Eve meal featuring Portuguese holiday traditions. On New Year’s Eve, a four-course prix fixe dinner is followed by a dance party with DJ Foggy Notion and a toast at midnight.

Lobster Shanty
83 Channel Dr., Pt. Pleasant Beach
Enjoy brunch on New Year’s Day while overlooking the Manasquan inlet. The buffet includes bakery items, cheese, fruit, raw shrimp, salads, Greek yogurt parfaits, build-your-own waffles, build-your-own omelets, build-your-own crab cakes, flank steak and honey ham at the carving station, stuffed French toast, housemade quiche, panko-crusted salmon, penne vodka, chicken Florentine, assorted cakes, pies and brownies.

Luca’s Ristorante
2019 Rte. 37, Somerset
With a taste of Ischia (Naples), Italy, Luca’s has been voted NJ’s best meatball – so of course, the polpette made with pine nuts, raisins, beef, tomato sauce and cacio cavallo is part of the New Year’s Eve menu – as are fresh figs with mascarpone and pine nuts, eggplant with tomato confit and buffalo mozzarella crema, crab cakes, burrata with roasted peppers and pickled eggplant, rice balls stuffed with beef and pork, braised angus short rib, veal osso buco, battered chicken breast, branzino and cannelloni. Tiramisu, pistachio brulee and gelato top off the meal.

Madison Modern Social
3801 Rte. 9, Old Bridge
This fairly new restaurant brings an upscale dining experience to your holidays. Aside from a classy sushi menu, you can order whipped lemon ricotta on sourdough bread, caviar or tuna tartare, wagyu beef bacon, short rib quesadilla, adult-friendly chicken nuggets, cacio e pepe ravioli, ribeye spinales, arancini, eggplant bruschetta or beef Wellington. For an Instagrammable holiday, order The Sphere for dessert, which is a chocolate cake lit on fire.

McLoone’s Pier House
1 Ocean Ave., Long Branch
This Pier Village staple will host specials on Christmas Eve, a New Year’s Eve party with live bands, and a New Year’s Day brunch.

Meximodo Cocina & Tequila Bar
5 Pearl St., Metuchen
25 Christopher Columbus Dr., Jersey City
If you want a Mexican meal with a side of mezcal for the holidays, Meximodo will be open on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and then brunch on New Year’s Day.

Michael Coastal Italian Grille
706 Haddon Ave., Collingswood
The Christmas Eve Feast of the Seven Fishes includes salt cod fritter, charred octopus, clams in roasted garlic butter and cioppino; plus chocolate panna cotta or strawberries with biscotti and whipped cream for some sweetness to counteract all the saltiness of the sea.

NOM Mexican Table & Tequila Bar
67 Morris St., Morristown
New Year’s Eve dinner specials include braised crispy pork belly, crab croquettes, stuffed pork tenderloin, ancho-rubbed catfish, party tacos (crispy crab, chorizo and eggs, and crispy pork belly), and a party starting at 10 pm with a DJ, open bar, and tequila toast at midnight.

Northridge Restaurant
The Woolverton Inn
New Year’s Eve will be an elegant, New York–style evening inspired by the iconic Rainbow and Carlyle rooms: a cafe-style dinner and dancing will take place inside the beautifully restored 1830s stone barn. And to celebrate its first anniversary, Executive Chef Lance Knowling will create the restaurant’s seasonal multi-course prix fixe menu (roasted winter vegetable salad, Yukon potato soup, pan-seared branzino, boneless grilled short rib), with live entertainment and sheep race games supporting the local food pantry, Fisherman’s Mark. A midnight Champagne toast will welcome in 2026.

Orchard Park by David Burke
Chateau Grande Hotel, 670 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick
The holidays are festive at Orchard Park, with a three-course holiday menu on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day; and either a three of four-course prix fixe menu on New Year’s Eve.

Over Easy Kitchen
460 Rte. 520, Marlboro
2111 Rte. 35, Holmdel
588 River Rd., Fair Haven
For a laid-back holiday, come earlier in the day for brunch or lunch – and try one of their handcrafted espresso drinks.

Park Place Prime
Bally’s Atlantic City
On Christmas Day, there will be two festive three-course dinner menus, in addition to the full menu. Begin with a choice of mozzarella arancini or Caesar salad. Entrée selections include steak frites, roasted chicken, salmon Milanese or the signature burger. Dessert selections include triple chocolate fudge cake and Park Place Prime cheesecake. A second menu includes additional elevated choices for each course – like shrimp cocktail, Korean Wagyu meatballs, Caesar salad, slow-roasted prime rib, wood-grilled filet mignon, Chilean sea bass and crab cake.

Patricia’s of Holmdel
2132 Rte. 35, Holmdel
BYOB to accompany an Italian Christmas meal, making sure you order their famous Money Bag pasta for a Christmas treat.

Rat’s Restaurant
16 Fairgrounds Rd., Hamilton Twp.
Nestled in the heart of the Grounds for Sculpture 42-acre sculpture garden, Rat’s is named for the beloved character Ratty from the classic children’s storybook The Wind in the Willows. This French countryside-like café will have the full menu available for lunch and dinner, plus specials, on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. Christmas dinner includes crispy hasbrown with tuna, pickled beet salad, salt baked roast beef and apple tartine. New Year’s features oysters, sweet potato soup, hidden rose apple salad, dry-aged bone-in ribeye, Dubai chocolate tart and sticky toffee pudding.

Red Horse by David Burke
26 Ridge Rd., Rumson
The Christmas menu, available on the Eve or on the Day, includes butternut squash bisque, roasted beet carpaccio with arugula salad, lobster dumplings, dressed oysters with rock shrimp, roast prime rib, filet mignon, ginger pepper salmon, pan-roasted halibut, butter poached lobster tail, Christmas yule log, traditional pecan pie and triple chocolate mousse cake.

Red Horse by David Burke
Bernards Inn, 27 Mine Brook Rd., Bernardsville
The restaurant is open on Christmas Eve and Day, offering signature menu items like clothesline bacon, butternut squash bisque, lobster dumplings, bacon and mushroom tart, halibut with sweet potato gnocchi, roast prime rib of beef, seared scallops, braised lamb shank, salmon with cranberry and butternut squash barley, butter-poached lobster tail and dry-aged ribeye. Desserts include warm apple crisp, key lime pie, triple chocolate mousse cake and Christmas yule log. The Ballroom Party on New Year’s Eve features CC Coletti and Band, with a ball drop and Champagne toast at midnight.

Revell Hall
219 High St., Burlington
For New Year’s Eve, there will be a four-course prefix menu with seating downstairs in three afternoon timeslots. Upstairs starting at 9 pm will be the Revell Hall New Year’s Eve Party, which will include an open bar and passed hors d’ oeuvres.

Restaurant Serenade
6 Roosevelt Ave., Chatham
If you choose to come in for Christmas Eve, your dinner options include pumpkin soup, BLT salad, short rib tortellini, fried oysters, tuna, halibut, vegetable panache, roasted rack of lamb and filet mignon; followed by cobbler (with apples from Melick’s Farm), lemon tart our chocolate mousse cake. A gluten-free dinner is available upon request. If you’re celebrating at home, order a four-course takeout meal for Eve or Day: truffle artichoke leek soup, market salad, Dover sol or filet mignon, and chocolate tart. You can add on Brussels sprouts, potato puree, creamed spinach and an Italian meringue lemon tart. Come back a week later for a NYE menu of white truffle risotto, caviar, grilled octopus, pumpkin soup, BLT salad, short rib tortellini, crab cake and fried oysters.

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.

Saku
936 Park Ave., Hoboken
On New Year’s Eve, guests can enjoy a three-course prix fixe dinner, featuring carefully curated courses that showcase premium sushi and Japanese flavors. The experience includes a free pour of bubbles to toast the new year, along with live music.

Shannon Rose Irish Pub
Ramsey and Clifton
For New Year’s Eve, the Ramsey location will feature a 4-course dinner, 4-hour open bar, live music, and a Champagne toast at midnight. The Clifton location will feature a dinner buffet, late night brunch buffet, 4-hour open bar, live music, and midnight Champagne toast.

Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas
70 Kingsland Rd., Clifton
New Year’s Eve specials include caviar service, butter-poached lobster, bone-in dry-aged ribeye and merlot poached pears.

The Stone House
50 Stirling Rd., Warren
Located on 10 acres in the Watchung Mountains, the restaurant blends city with rustic. Christmas Eve dinner will be a three-course prix fixe meal; while New Year’s will offer an earlier seating for three courses or a later seating with four courses.

Summit House
395 Springfield Ave., Summit
Christmas Eve’s specials by Executive Chef AJ Capella include poached seafood salad, frutta di mare pasta, and herb-crusted prime rib. New Year’s Eve’s five-course prix fixe dinner includes beef tartare, salsify bisque, truffled crab risotto, spaghetti alla chitarra, roasted diver scallops, seared Irish salmon, bacon-wrapped heritage pork loin, seared bluefin tuna, and citrus panna cotta.

TGIFriday’s
Burlington Twp., East Windsor, Linden, Manahawkin, Turnersville, West Orange
Through January 5, the “Original Elf Universe” takes over select Fridays locations with signature characters and themed zones like Candy Cane Corner and Naughty Elf Bar, as well as floor-to-ceiling décor; holiday-inspired menu items like the TBS Christmas Tree-O, Melting Snowman Sundae, Jolly Pom-a-Rita and Snowball Choco-tini; and Festive Fridays that include movie nights and themed trivia events.

Town Bar + Kitchen
80 Elm St., Morristown
You’ll watch Chef Jeff create a five-course seasonal dinner on New Year’s Eve as you sit at The Counter. Two seatings will be available.

Vette Ristorante at Calabria 
588 S. Livingston Ave., Livingston
Christmas Eve will offer an elevated yet traditional Feast of the Seven Fishes. Chef Maurizio de Rosa will blend southern Italian flavors in his warm seafood salad, fritto misto, linguine lobster, spaghetti scammaro, baccalà in pastella with puttanesca, snapper acquapazza, Pandoro with zabaglione sauce, and panettone prepared tiramisu-style. Christmas-themed craft cocktails include the jewel-green Grinch; a warm, winter-spiced Fireside Negroni; and the Mistletoe Margarita.

Catering Options

B&M Market
Park Ridge
Offerings for “fine dining at home” include a selection of hors d’oeuvres, soups, pasta, entrees, meats, side dishes and desserts.

Bella Italia Pork Store & Catering
Freehold, Jackson, Monroe
The hot buffet option for Christmas or New Year’s includes a variety of pasta, chicken, vegetables and meat – with a dozen choices of meat, such as eye round roast beef, stuffed loin of pork, boneless stuffed leg of lamb, fresh ham or standing prime rib. There are appetizers like rice balls, potato croquette and fried ravioli; cold platters such as bruschetta, fresh or grilled vegetables, and American or Italian cold cuts; and seafood including baked clams oreganata, calamari fra diavolo, zuppa di clams or jumbo shrimp salad. There’s an a la carte menu with selections of pasta, chicken, veal, beef, pork and side dishes.

Brothers Barbecue
900 Rte. 17, Suite 2, Ramsey
4242 Palisades Center Dr., West Nyack, NY
2402 Rte. 32, New Windsor, NY
Dinner packages include two half trays of homemade sides (anything on the regular menu, plus mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes), a half tray of cornbread smoked sausage stuffing, a 9-inch pie of your choice (apple, pecan, pumpkin or sweet potato), and homemade cranberry sauce. Add that to smoked, fried or boneless turkey; or smoked prime rib.

D’Angelo Italian Market
Freehold
Choose from a burrata platter, cheese and salumi, rice balls and croquettes, salads, pasta (Sacchetti D’Angelo is little cheese-filled pasta purses with cream sauce), meat dishes, eggplant rollatini or parmigiana, shrimp dishes or seafood salad, pizza rustica, prosciutto bread, oven-ready meats and roasts, and a variety of pastries and cookies.

Feast Catering
Westfield
The catering menu has 2 dozen hors d’oeuvres to choose from – like hummus bruschetta with yucca chips, Asian beef phyllo tarts, char-grilled mini lamb cutlets with mint dipping sauce, and BBQ pork buns with pico de gallo – plus sushi platters, pasta, meat and poultry, fish, vegetables, and platters with baguettes and fruit.

Livoti’s Old World Market
Aberdeen, Brick Freehold, Marlboro, Middletown
If you want a complete Christmas Dinner Package, you’ll get a side dish, pasta dish and entrée, plus a mozzarella caprese platter, tossed salad and a loaf of brick oven bread. Italian seafood specialties include shrimp scampi, baked clams oreganata, zuppa di mussels, stuffed filet of sole and linguini with crab sauce. A la carte selections range from baked ziti and stuffed shells to eggplant dishes to mini rice balls to chicken and meat trays. You can order a full holiday platter with international cheeses, hot or cold antipasto, gourmet seafood, mini fried finger foods or a charcuterie board.

Lucy’s Kitchen and Market
Princeton
Complement a spiral ham or (uncooked) turkey with goat cheese salad, crudite, roasted shrimp cocktail, buttermilk biscuits, creamy mashed potatoes, harvest wild rice with shitake mushrooms and cranberries, oven-roasted Brussels sprouts, beef meatballs, baked tortellini al forno, lasagna Bolognese, cheese cannelloni, chicken marsala, cedar plank salmon, creamed spinach casserole, macaroni & cheese, quiche, salmon en croute, gingerbread cake with cream cheese frosting, or a brownie platter.

Maddalena’s Cheese Cake & Catering
Ringoes
The a la carte selections will be ready to heat on Christmas Eve, including boneless roasted prime rib of beef, spiral glazed ham, salmon in lemon mustard dill sauce, oven-roasted turkey with sweet bread stuffing and sweet potato casserole, stuffed shells or meatball marinara, lobster crab ravioli, green beans almondine, roasted carrots with herb butter, homemade sweet dinner rolls, vanilla or pumpkin cheesecake, and apple crumb pie.

Mighty Quinn’s Slow Smoked Barbecue
Clifton, Hoboken, Union
Have yourself a merry BBQ Christmas, choosing from trays of brisket, smoked turkey breast, sausage, spare ribs, lots of flavors of chicken wings, mac & cheese, roasted sweet potatoes, burnt end baked beans, cinnamon bun bread pudding and apple crisp pie.

Plated by D
Hackensack
Choose from a mini charcuterie board for a small gathering, a Charcuterie Christmas Tree to share at parties, or a circular tray to share on Christmas dinner. There are a variety of small holiday gift boxes for your neighbors and co-workers, too.

Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace
Morris Plains, Ramsey, Tinton Falls
Uncle G’s has it all covered: dinner packages, appetizers, pasta and potato selections, meat entrees, turkey with stuffing, vegetables, green salads, seafood platters and entrees, Christmas desserts and lots of candy. They also specialize in the Feast of the 7 Fishes, with options including linguini with white clam sauce, baccala salad, pasta alla mare and frutti di mare. They also do catering for Hanukkah!

Yellow Rose Vegan Bakery & Café
410 Ridgewood Rd., Maplewood
Yellow Rose is partnering with Chef Taryn Clayton of Soj Foods for grab-and-go meals, such as DanDan noodles, lentil bolognese, and a lentil loaf with broccoli and roasted potatoes. You can order a mix of sweet and savory treats for the holidays.

Bakeries

Choc-O-Pain
Hoboken and Jersey City
The menu for the holidays at this French bakery goes on and on: Buches by Millefeuille, tarte apple tatin, Tarte Poire, flourless chocolate heaven cake (that is gluten-free), Tarte aux Noix de Pecan and Galette des Rois are just for starters.

David Burke’s Dixie Lee Bakery
Keansburg
Sweets and seasonal treats include Noel cakes, pastries, pies, cakes, cookies and breads that you can cater for the holiday.

Papa Ganache
Cranford, Matawan, Manasquan
You can preorder cupcakes, traditional favorites and food for Hanukkah; or a selection of cakes, cupcakes, desserts, pies, cookies and dessert bowls for Christmas. The bakery is vegan and gluten-free.

Sourdough Sweetie
Ridgewood
Naming her sourdough starters Bertha and Glenda, owner Kelly makes an assortment of handmade breads, scones, bagels and cookies.

Tours les Jours
Multiple locations
The Asian-French bakery café chain has more than 300 artisan pastries, gourmet cakes and desserts baked in-store daily, with a special Holiday Wishes menu this time of year.

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 Attractions Are Open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in NJ
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Where to Spend Your New Year’s Eve in New Jersey

The post These NJ Restaurants Will Serve Up Your New Year’s Dinners appeared first on NJ Family.

Looking for some staycation ideas in between those cozy PJ days at home? Here are some of our favorite things to do over the holiday break:

1. Go on a Science Adventure
Liberty Science Center has its ongoing exhibits open, plus the new SUE the T. Rex exhibit, which is the most complete Tyrannosaurus skeleton in the world. The Infinity Climber and the Touch Tunnel are always favorites, plus during Holiday Adventures you can get up close to animals on select dates. Be sure to book a laser show inside the planetarium.

2. Head Outdoors
Take the kids skiing, snowshoeing or ice skating close to home. Take a First Day Hike  on January 1st or dare to jump in the ocean at a Polar Plunge.

3. Hit the Circus
 Get tickets to the newest Big Apple Circus in New York City (through January 4).

4. Go Bowling
Head to a local alley with your crew; curly fries optional. Or level up with a trip to Albatross in Edison, which not only has 24 lanes with an upscale vibe, but also 18 holes of movie-themed mini golf.

5. Go Karting or Hit the Driving Range
Your teens will love hitting the karting track at Supercharged in Edson. There are two tracks that make up the longest indoor karting track in the world! There’s also axe throwing, bumper cars, a Drop & Twist tower and dozens of arcade games. Topgolf is next door, too. RPM Raceway in Jersey City has a must-see multi-level electric go-kart track, too.

6. Take in the Holiday Lights
There’s still time to see light shows and holiday houses all over New Jersey.

7. Go Prehistoric
Check out Jurassic Quest, a hands-on exhibit where you will see life-sized dinos roaming around the convention center. Or head to Edelman Fossil Park & Museum, where you can see similar dino displays inside, but also dig for real fossils outside in the quarry.

8. Bring History to Life
Get a glimpse of our Revolutionary History during Patriots Week throughout Trenton, where there will be a Colonial Ball, battle reenactments and a puppet show. You can also watch as a series of flags from the Civil War are unveiled. The Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia has a special exhibit on the Declaration of Independence, in addition to General George Washington’s war tent, a true-to-life narration by the indigenous peoples, a ship replica you can walk in, and a kid-friendly discovery zone.

9. Take a Day Trip
Visit some of the most Christmassy towns in New Jersey, like Vernon Twp. (home of Mountain Creek Ski Resort), the Wildwoods, Lambertville, Morristown and Cape May. A holiday visit to NYC and Philly is always on our list and no trip is complete without a stop at Bryant Park and the Rockefeller Christmas tree in NYC and LOVE Plaza in Philly.

10. Inspire the Kids Creativity
Art studios around NJ are offering camps for the week; Around the Corner Art Center in Freehold Twp. and Marlboro will assign your kids projects like painting on canvas, sculpting, and painting with acrylic. All Children’s Art Center of NJ, with studios in Boonton, Bound Brook and Denville, has art camp plus theater and acting classes.

11. Sign up for a Mini Camp
Camps offer a fun, hands-on way for kids to keep the learning going while school is out. Campers at Tenafly Nature Center’s Winter Break Camp will hike along scenic trails to see wildlife, make crafts, listen to stories and play games that are winter-themed. Iron Peak Sports & Events has School’s Out Camps later this month, where kids will hang on the climbing walls, make crafts, watch a movie, and play on the sports fields.

12. Head to a Museum
Plan a day trip to the Newark Museum of Art in Newark, the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton (which has different, free workshops planned each day), or Imagine That!!! in Florham Park. Many of our best museums offer free admission.

13. Hit the Arcade
Play some old-school pinball at Silverball Retro Arcade in Asbury Park, add on bowling to your visit to DiDonato Family Fun Center in Hammonton, or compete in the G.I. Joe laser tag arena at The Gameroom by Hasbro at American Dream. Dave & Buster’s has multiple locations around the state, where you can grab a beer while the kids play Skee-ball or air hockey.

14. Plan a Day at American Dream
American Dream in East Rutherford is a massive complex with shopping, restaurants, Nickelodeon Universe, Big SNOW, LEGOLand Discovery Center, SeaLife aquarium, the DreamWorks Water Park, an ice skating rink, Angry Birds Mini Golf and blacklight mini golf. Visit TiLT Museum and Paradox Museum for exhibits that guarantee awesome pics. The Dream Wheel – a 300-foot observation wheel that overlooks NJ and NYC – has a family promo through January 15 that gives a discounted ride plus photo options. Check out our reels on Instagram for a preview.

15. See the NYC Skyline on a Cruise
Leaving on City Cruises from Weehawken or Circle Line from Manhattan, you can board a boat and take in in all the views of the NJ and NY skylines.

16. Get in Your Ride Fix
Sesame Place in Langhorne, PA is open on select days through January 4, and has special Kwanzaa and New Year’s parties planned.

17. Take to the High Seas
Battleship NJ in Camden lets you walk through three floors of the decommissioned Naval ship that is docked in the Delaware River. You can lie in the sailors’ bunks, walk through the mess hall, and even see the ship’s jail. The Intrepid Museum in NYC offers a similar experience, with the addition of the world’s first space shuttle, a nuclear weapons-carrying submarine, dozens of military aircraft, a supersonic spy plane, and the world’s fastest commercial airliner (the Concorde).

18. Burn Off Some Energy
New Jersey has its share of indoor sports complexed where kids can get out their zoomies during winter break. Branchburg Sports Complex has fields and courts for basketball, baseball, flag football and lacrosse, plus a laser tag arena, arcade, play maze and batting cages. Iron Peak Sports & Events in Hillsborough has sports fields, plus climbing walls, field games, a golf house an arcade, duckpin bowling and aerial ropes.

19. Ring in the New Year Early
Celebrate 2025 at a Noon Year’s Eve party, where festivities to welcome the new year include kid-friendly parties.

20. Treat Yourself to a Spa Day
SoJo Spa Club in Edgewater has epic NYC views and a vibe that is unmatched. Aside from the outdoor heated infinity pool that overlooks NYC, the spa has tons more to offer inside, where you can book an appointment for a massage, Korean body scrub, acupressure, or a volcanic sand bath. There’s a healthy lunch menu and you can book an overnight stay at the hotel.

Don’t forget to check our list of Things to Do This Weekend for more ideas on how to keep the kids occupied. Plus, we rounded up fun NYE parties the kids will enjoy!

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:
This Year’s Must-See Holiday Attractions
99 Things To Do Indoors in New Jersey
These NJ Restaurants Will Serve Your New Year’s Dinner
Where To Spend Your New Year’s in New Jersey

The post 20 Things to Do With the Kids Over Winter Break 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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The post Noon Year’s Eve Is a Thing and Here’s Where to Celebrate in New Jersey appeared first on NJ Family.

Would you brave a swim in the icy Atlantic on a winter’s day? For Polar Bear enthusiasts, a plunge into the icy cold Atlantic Ocean is an annual New Year’s tradition.

If you’re looking to participate in a Polar Bear Plunge this year (yes, we know it’s not for everyone – but you can bundle up and watch from the shoreline), here are a few to choose from along the Jersey Shore, or you can head to New York and join the polar bears at Coney Island.

Make sure you check for updates before heading to the Shore.

January 1

Sons of Ireland Polar Bear Plunge
The Berkeley Hotel, Asbury Park
This event supports Hazlet’s Hope Network and The Samaritan Center at The Jersey Shore.

Polar Bear Plunge – Plunge for a Purpose
Landshark Bar & Grill, Resorts Casino & Hotel, Atlantic City
The plunge raises money for the Cancer Support Community New Jersey at Gilda’s Club.

Brigantine Polar Bear Plunge
16th/17 Street Beach, Brigantine
Celebrate 100 years of service from Brigantine’s police, fire, public works and lifeguard members during this plunge.

Polar Bear Plunge
Essex Avenue Beach, Margate
Robert’s Place will hold its 31st annual plunge into the ocean.

First Day Plunge
Music Pier, Eighth Street side, Ocean City
Part of the First Day (New Year’s Day) festivities in Ocean City include the Polar Plunge and First Day 5K.

Ventnor City Polar Plunge and Winter Festival
Polar Plunge: Newport Avenue Beach, Ventnor City
Winter Festival: St. James Memorial Hall, Ventnor City
Start your afternoon inside the church hall, where there will be inflatable games, music, a chili cookoff, and food and beer specials. Head out to the Atlantic for the plunge. Then, warm up at the afterparty at Ventnor Social.

Polar Bear Plunge
Coney Island Beach, Brooklyn, NY
The Coney Island Polar Bear Club is the oldest winter bathing club in the U.S., dating back to 1903.

January 17

Special Olympics New Jersey Polar Bear Plunge
Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood
Plungers should dress up in costume, break out their plunge props, and make banners and signs before jumping into the icy waters of the Atlantic. After, plungers (and kids under 12) and have lunch inside the convention center. Note: spectators are free, but plungers must fundraise.

2026 LADACIN Plunge
Manasquan
Lifetime Assistance for Developmental and Challenging Individual Needs (LADACIN) Network hosts the plunge, which invites you to warm up at Leggett’s Sand Bar and Restaurant for a party after your swim.

February 7

Patriot Polar Plunge
Sea Girt
Support the LIFT Fund for veterans at Habitat for Humanity, which provides critical home repairs for veterans in Monmouth County. The ceremony is in honor of State Trooper and National Guardsman Juan Fajardo. There is an after-party with breakfast at Rod’s Tavern.

Valentine Plunge
Manasquan
Show your “love” by collecting donations for ALS patients.

February 28

Polar Bear Plunge
Seaside Heights
Dress up, bring props and join thousands of brave jumpers from around the state who are supporting Special Olympics New Jersey athletes.

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The post Are You Taking the Plunge? The Polar Bear Plunge, That Is! appeared first on NJ Family.

If you’ve been to a Jurassic Quest event, you know to expect gigantic photorealistic dinosaurs (some move and roar), dino shows, a giant fossil dig and more fun designed for your biggest little dino fans.

Jurassic Quest® will take over the New Jersey Convention & Expo Center in Edison over the holiday break (from December 27-30) and tickets are on sale. This four-day event was designed to take families on a journey through 165 million years of history, from the Triassic to the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.

Visitors can get up close to lifelike dinosaurs and take part in a bunch of activities, including digging for fossils, meeting adorable baby dinos, riding on some of the giant dinosaur replicas and building their own exhibits in the LEGO zone. There are science exhibits, science stations, floor puzzles, a glow zone, dinosaur bounce houses, and even a 35-foot derby track.

Organizers say Jurassic Quest works with leading paleontologists to ensure each dinosaur is replicated accurately, from coloration to teeth size, to textured skin, fur and feathers. From the largest predators to baby dinos, dinosaurs are grouped in realistic scenes with others in their eras to allow visitors to imagine what it was like when these dinos roamed Earth millions of years ago.

Jurassic Quest will be held at the New Jersey Convention & Expo Center in Edison from December 27 to 30. Hours are 12 to 8 pm on Saturday, 8 am to 8 pm on Sunday and Monday, and 9 am to 5 pm on Tuesday. Tickets are sold in different blocks of times. You can buy tickets in advance at jurassicquest.com, or on site. Ticket prices range from $22 for general admission; to $36 for Kids Ultimate Admission for kids, which includes access to dinosaur rides, the T. Wrecks Raceway, fossil digs, and dinosaur-themed inflatable attractions; or the Kids Dino-Mite Experience for $85 that adds on Fast Lanes for popular rides, a special meet-and-greet session, and VIP credentials valid for face painting and a green screen photo experience. Taxes and fees apply.

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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