A Festive December 2025:
Events and Festivals in New Jersey
As December arrives, New Jersey transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland filled with holiday cheer. From dazzling Christmas light displays and festive parades to cozy small-town celebrations and family-friendly Hannukah events, the Garden State offers endless ways to embrace the season.
Whether you’re planning a romantic holiday getaway, a fun family outing, or simply looking for the best December events in NJ, you’ll discover unforgettable traditions and magical experiences across the state.
This guide highlights the top things to do in New Jersey in December—including seasonal festivals, Santa train rides, Menorah Lightings, holiday concerts, and local gems that make the holidays merry and bright. Get ready to explore the most festive events and create lasting memories this winter!
Northern NJ December 2025 Guide: Festivals, Fairs & Seasonal Celebrations
Let It Glow: A Holiday Lantern Spectacular
November 6th, 2025 - January 11th, 2026
Bergen County Zoo at Van Saun County Park
216 Forest Avenue
Paramus, NJ
Experience the magic of the season at Let It Glow: A Holiday Lantern Spectacular at Bergen County Zoo, stroll through dazzling displays of over 30 larger-than-life, animal-themed lanterns, blending traditional Chinese artistry with festive winter charm. This family-friendly event includes a scenic train ride, cozy fire pits, and s'mores kits available for purchase—perfect for creating unforgettable holiday memoriesFriends of BC Zoo. Ideal for New Jersey winter getaways and holiday events near NYC, Let It Glow is a must-see destination for all ages.
Orchard of Lights - Drive Thru
From Saturday, November 22nd until Tuesday, December 30th, 2025
Demarest Farms
244 Wierimus Rd.
Hillsdale, NJ
Experience the magic of the holiday season at Orchard of Lights Drive-Thru at Demarest Farms, This enchanting event invites families to explore over 32 acres of dazzling light displays from the comfort of their vehicle. Guests can enjoy festive treats, warm up by the fire pit, snap photos with Santa, and create lasting memories with activities like making s'mores and listening to Santa's singing reindeer. Perfect for all ages, Orchard of Lights is a must-visit New Jersey holiday tradition.
Skylands Christmas Light Show & Christmas Village
November 22, 2025, through January 3, 2026
Skylands Stadium
94 Championship Pl.
Augusta, NJ 07822
Discover the magic of the holidays at the Skylands Christmas Light Show & Christmas Village. This dazzling family-friendly event features a mile-long drive-through light show with over two million lights, festive tunnels, and whimsical displays. After the show, explore the Christmas Village with holiday shopping, photos with Santa, s'mores by the fire, and seasonal treats like BBQ, ice cream, and spiked hot cocoa. Perfect for families, couples, and holiday lovers seeking unforgettable New Jersey winter events
Fanwood's Famous Christmas House
Friday, November 28, 2025 - Wednesday, January 8, 2026, from dusk until 10pm
Fanwood's Famous Christmas House
83 Patterson Road
Fanwood, NJ
Fanwood's Famous Christmas House shines as one of New Jersey's most beloved holiday attractions, dazzling visitors with its spectacular light display and community spirit. Known for its elaborate decorations spanning both 83 and 87 Patterson Road, the display features thousands of twinkling lights, festive inflatables, and whimsical scenes that capture the magic of Christmas. What makes this attraction truly special is its mission: for over a decade, Fanwood's Famous Christmas House has raised donations for the New Jersey Institute for Disabilities (NJID), with 100% of contributions going directly to support programs that benefit children and adults with special needs. Visitors can donate via the lockbox at the red house on Patterson Road or through NJID's website, making every visit not only joyful but impactful.
Holiday Train Show and Open House
November 28, 29, 30 December 6, 7, 13, 14
The Model Railroad Club
295 Jefferson Ave
Union, NJ 07083
Celebrate the magic of the season at the December Holiday Train Show and Open House hosted by The Model Railroad Club in Union, NJ! This festive family-friendly event features spectacular model train displays, interactive exhibits, and behind-the-scenes tours of one of the largest HO-scale layouts in the country. Perfect for holiday outings and local December events in New Jersey, the show delights train enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. Don't miss this unique blend of nostalgia, craftsmanship, and holiday cheer—ideal for families seeking memorable things to do in NJ this December.
German Christmas Market of NJ
Friday, Saturday, Sunday, December 5, 6, 7, 2025
Sussex County Fairgrounds
37 Plains Rd,
Augusta, NJ
This festive, family-friendly event runs Friday through Sunday—rain or shine—and features authentic German food, artisan gifts, live music, and holiday cheer. Perfect for seasonal shopping and cozy winter fun, it's one of New Jersey's top December events. Don't miss this enchanting holiday tradition in the heart of Sussex County!
Annual Tree of Lights Festival
Saturday, December 6, 2025; @5:30pm
Village Green
Mountain Blv'd
Watchung, NJ
Celebrate the magic of the season at the Annual Tree of Lights Festival. This beloved community tradition brings families, friends, and neighbors together for an enchanting evening filled with holiday cheer, dazzling light displays, festive music, and warm seasonal treats. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking tree lighting ceremony, stroll through the decorated Village Green, and share in the joy of welcoming winter in the heart of Watchung. Perfect for couples, families, and holiday enthusiasts, the Tree of Lights Festival is one of New Jersey's most anticipated December events—an unforgettable way to kick off the holiday season.
Attendees can place a red light on our tree to honor a person, family, friends, and others. send honoree(s) name email to treasurer@watchungems.org after your transaction.
Berkeley Heights Winter Walk Holiday Celebration
Saturday, December 6th, 2025
Downtown Berkeley Heights, NJ
This annual holiday event transforms the town into a festive wonderland, featuring dazzling light displays, live entertainment, holiday shopping, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can stroll through decorated storefronts, enjoy seasonal treats, and meet Santa Claus—all while soaking in the joyful community spirit. The day will culminate with the Berkeley Heights Recreation Department’s Tree Lighting and a spectacular fireworks show at Veteran's Memorial Park.
Warren Holiday Festival
Saturday, December 6th, 2025; 4pm - 7pm
Municipal Complex
46 Mountain Blvd,
Warren, NJ
This family holiday celebration feaures a a bonfire @ 4:15pm, a visit by Santa, carnival games, food trucks, horse and carriage rides, petting zoo, an iceless skating rink, a tree lighting @ 6:50pm, and fireworks @7pm
Holiday Open House
Sunday, December 7th, 2025
Reeves-Reed Arboretum
165 Hobart Avenue
Summit, NJ
This festive family-friendly event invites visitors to explore the beautifully decorated historic grounds, enjoy seasonal crafts, sip warm beverages, and experience the magic of the holidays in a nature-filled setting. Perfect for all ages, the Holiday Open House offers a charming blend of winter wonder and community spirit—ideal for those seeking memorable holiday activities in Union County. Don't miss this enchanting celebration nestled in one of New Jersey's most beloved arboretums!
Holiday Craft Show Morristown
December 12, 13, 14, 2025
Morristown National Guard Armory, 430 Western Ave, Morristown
This celebrated craft show features over 150 top American artisans offering handmade gifts, original fashion, fine art, gourmet specialties, and unique home décor. Enjoy a festive indoor shopping experience with free parking, shuttle service, and on-site café. Perfect for families and gift hunters seeking meaningful, locally made creations
Community Day: Winter Wonderland
Saturday, December 13, 2025; 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
The Newark Museum of Art
49 Washington Street
Newark, NJ
Cost: Free event, registration required
Winter Wonderland returns to The Newark Museum of Art with a joyful lineup of seasonal performances, arts and crafts, storytelling, and more. Explore holiday traditions from different cultures, enjoy sweet treats like hot chocolate, and step back in time with guided tours of the beautifully decorated Ballantine House, showcasing 19th-century holiday customs. Throughout the day, experience live music, dance, and theater that capture the warmth and wonder of the season.
fliXfest Film Festival
Sunday, December 14th, 2025
Teaneck Cinemas
503 Cedar Lane
Teaneck, NJ
Celebrate cinematic creativity at the 2nd Annual fliXfest Film Festival, This all-day event showcases a dynamic mix of indie films, student projects, music videos, and global features—highlighting diverse voices and storytelling from around the world. Whether you're a film enthusiast or a curious newcomer, fliXfest offers an unforgettable experience of culture, creativity, and community. Discover New Jersey's rising filmmakers and immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of genres and perspectives.
Hoboken Menorah Lighting
Sunday, December 14th, 2025 5PM until 6PM
Hoboken City Hall
94 Washington Street
Hoboken, NJ
Free for the entire community.
Bring the family as this years event features oin the community in UNITY for a Gelt Drop with the Hoboken Fire Department! Fabulous glow in the dark Chanukah swag, Latkes, Donuts, chocolate coins, music!
Hanover Twp Hanukkah Hoopla
Sunday, December 21, 2025
Hanover Township Community Center
15 North Jefferson Road
Whippany, NJ
Bring your menorah for a Community Lighting. There will be Dancing, Latkes, Gelt, Crafts and Dreidel play.
Celebrate New Year's Eve with a Fireworks Dinner Cruise
December 31, 2025
Lincoln Harbor Marina
Weehawken, New Jersey
Ring in the New Year on the water and countdown to midnight with an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration aboard City Cruises Signature Dinner Cruise. This unforgettable celebration features a gourmet buffet, live DJ entertainment, and panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, and Brooklyn Bridge. As midnight approaches, guests enjoy a sparkling wine toast and front-row seats to dazzling fireworks over the Hudson River. Perfect for couples, families, and groups, this festive cruise blends luxury dining with iconic New York scenery—making it one of the top New Year's Eve experiences in New Jersey.
Morris County First Night 2026
Downtown Morristown, NJ
Families searching for a kid-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration will love Morris County First Night 2026. This annual tradition transforms the heart of Morristown into a vibrant festival with live music, interactive children’s shows, arts and crafts, perfect for little ones. Parents appreciate the safe, alcohol-free environment, while kids enjoy hands-on activities, face painting, and special performances designed just for them. With multiple venues offering entertainment for all ages, First Night Morristown makes it easy to ring in the new year with laughter, creativity, and community spirit—without the late-night meltdowns. Whether you’re a local or visiting New Jersey for the holidays, this family-friendly New Year’s Eve event in Morris County promises unforgettable memories and a joyful start to 2026.
Central NJ December 2025 Guide: Festivals, Fairs & Seasonal Celebrations
Christmas House Freehold
Now until December 31, 2025 (except Christmas Day)
Freehold Raceway Mall
Freehold, NJ
Experience the magic of the holiday season at Christmas House Freehold, a one-of-a-kind immersive Christmas attraction. Perfect for families, couples, and holiday enthusiasts, this festive walkthrough event features beautifully decorated rooms, dazzling lights, interactive displays, and plenty of photo opportunities that capture the spirit of Christmas. Conveniently located at the heart of Monmouth County, Christmas House Freehold offers a joyful holiday experience near top shopping and dining destinations. Don't miss your chance to celebrate Christmas in Freehold with an unforgettable seasonal adventure that's sure to become a cherished tradition.
Festival of Trees
Open Wednesday, November 19th, 2025 through Sunday, January 11th, 2026
Morven Museum & Garden
55 Stockton Street
Princeton, NJ
Step into a winter wonderland at the Festival of Trees. This beloved annual event transforms the historic museum into a dazzling display of holiday magic, featuring creatively decorated trees and mantels by local artists, schools, garden clubs, and nonprofits. Perfect for families and festive explorers, it’s a must-see seasonal tradition that blends community spirit with timeless charm. Plan your visit to experience one of New Jersey’s most enchanting holiday attractions.
Magic of Lights at PNC Bank Arts Center
November 21, 2025 to January 3, 2026, Holmdel
Experience the dazzling Magic of Lights at this festive drive-through holiday lights show perfect for families and seasonal seekers. Cruise through 2.5 miles of brilliant LED displays, animated scenes, and beloved holiday characters, all from the comfort of your car. This annual tradition features highlights like the Holiday Barbie, Bigfoot Monster Truck, and Prehistoric Christmas dinosaurs, plus a cozy Holiday Village with ice skating and Santa visits.
The Winter Wonderlights Spectacular Drive-Thru
Friday, November 21 until December 28th, 2025
Middlesex County Fairgrounds
655 Cranbury Road
East Brunswick, NJ
Experience the magic of the Winter WonderLights Spectacular Drive-Thru—New Jersey’s largest animated holiday light show! This dazzling family-friendly event features over 1.5 million synchronized lights, festive music, and themed displays celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali, and Kwanzaa. Guests can enjoy a cozy drive through sparkling tunnels, towering trees, and tributes to first responders—all from the comfort of their car. Perfect for holiday outings, date nights, and seasonal traditions
U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland
November 21 – January 4, 2026
Holland Ridge Farms
108 Rues Road
Cream Ridge, NJ
xperience the magic of U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland at Holland Ridge Farms, this enchanting holiday attraction transforms the farm into a dazzling wonderland filled with festive lights, seasonal displays, and family-friendly activities. Guests can stroll through breathtaking tulip fields reimagined for winter, enjoy photo opportunities among sparkling decorations, and savor local treats that capture the spirit of the season. Perfect for couples, families, and holiday day-trippers, Holland Ridge Farms' Winter Wonderland offers a unique blend of floral beauty and holiday cheer, making it one of New Jersey's must-visit destinations this winter.
Old Fashioned Christmas on the Farm & Walk through Light Show!
November 28th - December 28th, 2025; Fridays - Sunday. 4-8 pm
Allaire Community Farm
1923 Baileys Corner Rd
Wall Township, NJ
This event features a magical lifesize Christmas village, with indoor and outdoor petting zoos, photos with Santa in the museum, relax & watch classic holiday movies and holiday displays in the pavilion, a Model Train House, and an historic 100-year-old Barn that has been converted into a farmer's market.
With the purchase of a Yuletide Wagon ride and or Polar Express tickets, you'll take a magical ride to visit the two tunnels of lights.
Polar Express
Trips run: November 28,29,30, December 5,6,7,12,13,14,19,20,21, 2025
Lehigh Junction
99 Elizabeth St.
Phillipsburg, NJ
This magical holiday experience, hosted by the Delaware River Railroad Excursions, brings the beloved story to life with festive music, dancing chefs, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa himself. Families can relive the classic tale on a scenic hour-and-a-half journey, complete with golden tickets and keepsake sleigh bells. Book early to secure your seat on one of New Jersey’s most enchanting Christmas train rides.
Winter Village -- Festival of Trees
Thanksgiving weekend November 28th, 29th, 30th, Fridays-Sunday, December 6th until 21st, 2025
The Red Mill
56 Main St.
Clinton, NJ
This Annual Holiday Festival features a beautiful display of decorated trees, wreaths and centerpieces that are available to win through our raffle. Experience over 40 artisan crafters, specialty foods and craft beer set inside the bucolic Red Mill Museum Village made even more special with holiday lights and decor throughout the grounds of the Red Mill Museum Village, amid the historic buildings.
Drumthwacket Holiday Open House
December 4, 5, 10, 20, 21, 2025
Drumthwacket Foundation
354 Stockton Street
Princeton, NJ
Admission: Free. Guests must register in advance.
Drumthwacket serves as the stately home and grounds of the official residence of the Governor of New Jersey. Constructed on land that witnessed the 1777 Princeton battle for American independence, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and one of the most elegant of our nation's executive residences.
Drumthwacket is most festive during the holiiday season. Guests view six first-floor public rooms festively decorated by the Garden Clubs of New Jersey, enjoy holiday piano music in the Music Room and a sweet treat prepared by the Drumthwacket Chef. The format for all Open Houses is self-guided but Docents are available in every room to answer questions.
Christmas on the Farm
Saturday, December 6th, 2025
Howell Living History Farm
70 Woodens Lane
Hopewell Twp, NJ
Celebrate the magic of the season at Christmas on the Farm. Step back in time and experience an old-fashioned holiday with horse-drawn sleigh rides, festive music, and hands-on crafts in a beautifully preserved 1900s farm setting. Families can enjoy storytelling by the hearth, seasonal treats, and a visit from St. Nick himself. Perfect for all ages, this beloved annual event blends holiday cheer with historic charm—making it a must-visit Christmas tradition in New Jersey.
Christmas Con NJ
December 12, 13, 14, 2025
New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center
97 Sunfield Avenue
Edison, NJ
Celebrate the magic of the holidays at Christmas Con NJ 2025. This festive fan-favorite convention brings together beloved holiday movie stars, themed photo ops, exclusive panels, and seasonal shopping—all under one roof. Whether you're a Hallmark Channel devotee or just love the spirit of Christmas, it's the ultimate winter wonderland experience for families, couples, and holiday enthusiasts across New Jersey and beyond.
Lighting Up Nature Drive-thru
December 12th -15th, 2025; 6pm-8pm
Jakes Branch County Park Nature Center
1100 Double Trouble Road
Beechwood, NJ
Cost:
Free
This evening drive tru features
a lighting up of nature with holiday lights.
Belmar Christmas Light Show
December 13th, 20th, 2025 at 6 PM (Rain Date - December 21st}
Belmar Plaza
On the Connelly-Campion-Wright Building
704 Belmar Plaza
Belmar, NJ
Cost:
The show is free, however they suggest donations of $25 for a family of 4 and $10 for an individual adult
Each show runs for approximately 20 minutes.
This popular Disney-quality show features tens of thousands of lights, color-changing carbon-dioxide cannons and pyrotechnics synchronized to music.
Proceeds from this event will benefit
RallyCap Sports (www.rallycapsports.org), a nonprofit 501-c-3 charity that sponsors sports programs and builds facilities for children with disabilities.
Parking is located in the Belmar Mall parking lot and surrounding streets. Visitors are advised to arrive 20 to 30 minutes prior to show time, dress warm, and carpool if possible.
Chanukah Carnival - Marlboro
Sunday, December 14, 2025 • 24 Kislev 5786
Center for Jewish Life
176 Rt 79 North
Marlboro, NJ
Admission: $25
Features Arts & Crafts, Edible Menorahs, Donut Decorating, Game Booths with prizes, Menorah Lighting, Hebrew School Performance, games and a pizza lunch.
Palmer Square
Annual Menorah Lighting
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Nassau Inn Patio
10 Palmer Square
Princeton, NJ
Celebrate the Festival of Lights at the Palmer Square Annual Menorah Lighting. This cherished community tradition features live music, festive treats, and the ceremonial lighting of the menorah, honoring Hanukkah's spirit of hope and unity. Perfect for families and visitors of all ages, the event offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of downtown Princeton.
Temple Sholom Hanukkah Menorah Lighting and Shabbat Dinner
Friday, December 19th, 2025
Temple Sholom
1925 Lake Ave
Scotch Plains, NJ
This event features the
Menorah Lighting:5:30pm Short Service. 6:00pm Followed by a Shabbat Dinner. There will be latkes!! Please bring your menorah to the service so we can celebrate together.
New Jersey Sports Card Convention
December 20, 21, 2025
iPlay America
110 Schanck Rd,
Freehold, NJ
This family event will featwill experienced card collectors and dealers, bringing sports fans a wide variety of collectibles, novelties, sports card memorabilia and more.
Jurassic Quest roars through Edison, NJ
Saturday, December 27 - Tuesday, December 30, 2025
New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center
97 Sunfield Ave,
Step into a prehistoric adventure at Jurassic Quest.. Perfect for families and dinosaur enthusiasts, this nationally acclaimed event features life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, interactive science stations, fossil digs, dino rides, and exclusive LEGO®-themed play zones. With activities tailored for kids ages 2–10 and photo ops galore, Jurassic Quest is the ultimate winter break destination for unforgettable fun and learning. Book your tickets early to experience the largest and most realistic dinosaur exhibit on tour
Lawrence Historical Society Hogmanay Bonfire
Deember 31, 2025
Behind the historic 1761 Brearley House
Lawrence, NJ
The Hogmanay Bonfire is a family-friendly New Year's Eve tradition that delights children and parents alike. The Hogmanay Bonfire combines Scottish New Year's customs with local community spirit, offering kids an unforgettable way to welcome the new year. Families gather to watch towering flames light up the night sky as old Christmas trees are burned, symbolizing a fresh start. Children especially enjoy the festive atmosphere, complete with bagpipe music, fiddlers, and interactive activities that make history come alive. The event begins promptly at 6:00 p.m., making it perfect for younger audiences who want to celebrate without staying up until midnight. Parents appreciate the safe, welcoming environment, while kids love the excitement of writing down wishes or worries to toss into the fire—a playful ritual of "letting go" that sparks imagination and joy. With free admission, refreshments, and tours of the Brearley House, the Hogmanay Bonfire is one of the best New Jersey New Year's Eve events for children, blending cultural heritage, community bonding, and family fun.
First Night Ocean County
Wednesday, December 31, 2025, 1:00pm to 5:00pm
Seaside Heights Boardwalk, Seaside Heights, NJ
Ring in the New Year early at First Night Ocean County, a beloved family-friendly celebration on the iconic Seaside Heights Boardwalk! Enjoy an afternoon packed with live entertainment, character appearances, magic shows, train rides, fireworks and festive activities across multiple boardwalk venues. Perfect for families seeking a safe and spirited way to welcome 2026, this event blends classic Jersey Shore charm with unforgettable holiday fun.
Southern NJ December 2025 Guide: Festivals, Fairs & Seasonal Celebrations
Diggerland Drive thru Holiday Light Show
November 14th until January 11th, 2026
100 Pinedge Drive
West Berlin, NJ
Experience the magic of the 2025 Diggerland Drive-Thru Holiday Light Show, This dazzling one-mile course transforms America's only construction-themed park into a festive wonderland of twinkling lights, animated displays, and illuminated tunnels. Families can enjoy holiday music via Diggerland's exclusive radio station while cruising through millions of lights. Perfect for all ages, this unforgettable event is a must-see New Jersey holiday tradition
DiDonato's Magical Holiday Express
November 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30. December 3 until 23, 2025
DiDonato's Family Fun Center,
Hammonton, NJ
All aboard the DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express—South Jersey’s beloved Christmas train ride. Families can experience a dazzling journey through millions of twinkling lights, meet Santa and his elves in their festive workshop, enjoy holiday treats, and explore the enchanting Holiday Village. With free bowling, photo ops, and seasonal surprises, this immersive event is perfect for kids ages 1–92.
Cape May Christmas Holiday Season
November 22nd until January 4th, 2026
Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May, NJ
The Cape May Christmas holiday season kicks off with the tree lighting ceremony on Saturday, November 22, 2025, and continues every weekend as the town is transformed into a Dickens village for the holidays with garlands of fragrant greens and twinkling gaslights. Wrap yourself in the warmth of holiday spirit and sample a variety of fun tours and events.
Smithville Holiday Light Show On The Lake
Thanksgiving until January 5th, 2026
Historical Smithville
615 E. Moss Mill Rd.
Smithville, NJ
Experience the magic of the Smithville Holiday Light Show on the Lake. Features over 120 dazzling Christmas trees—crafted from more than 50,000 lights—float on Lake Meone, dancing in sync with festive music nightly from 5:30 to 8:30 PM. This free, family-friendly event transforms the Village Greene into a winter wonderland, offering visitors enchanting views from both sides of the lake and the iconic bridge. Don’t miss one of New Jersey’s most beloved holiday traditions, perfect for seasonal strolls, shopping, and joyful memories.
The 22nd Annual Antique Toy Train Show
Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, November 28th, 2025 thru February. 1st, 2026
Museum of American History,
Deptford, NJ
All aboard for nostalgia! This family-friendly exhibit showcases rare vintage toy trains, classic model railroads, and interactive displays that delight train enthusiasts of all ages. Perfect for holiday outings and weekend adventures, the show offers a unique glimpse into American toy history and craftsmanship. Don't miss one of New Jersey's top winter attractions for collectors, families, and history buffs alike.
Glassboro's Boro In Lights
December 5, 2025
Glassboro Town Square
1 High St W
Glassboro, NJ
Celebrate the magic of the season at Glassboro’s 12th Annual Boro in Lights. This beloved South Jersey holiday tradition features dazzling light displays, live entertainment, festive food trucks, and family-friendly activities for all ages. Don’t miss the enchanting tree lighting ceremony with Santa and Mrs. Claus, arriving by firetruck at 6:30 p.m. Create lasting memories and kick off the holidays with joy, community spirit, and a sprinkle of seasonal wonder.
Ocean City Christmas Parade
Friday, December 5th, 2025: 6:00 PM
Ocean City, NJ
Celebrate the magic of the season at the Ocean City NJ Christmas Parade along festive Asbury Avenue. This beloved annual event features dazzling floats, marching bands, holiday characters like the Grinch and Santa Claus, and plenty of family-friendly cheer. Starting at Sixth Street and ending at 11th Street, the parade offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy downtown shopping and dining before and after the show. Don’t miss this heartwarming kickoff to Ocean City’s holiday season!
Wildwoods' Winter Festival - Christmas in The Plaza
Friday, Saturday, December 5th, 6th, 2025
Byrne Plaza, Downtown Wildwood, NJ
Celebrate the magic of the season at Wildwoods' Winter Festival – Christmas in The Plaza. This festive, family-friendly event features twinkling lights, live holiday entertainment, local vendors, and visits with Santa Claus—all set in a charming coastal town bursting with seasonal cheer. Perfect for holiday shopping and memory-making, Christmas in The Plaza is a must-visit destination for families, couples, and visitors seeking a joyful winter escape in New Jersey. Don't miss this enchanting kickoff to the Wildwoods' holiday season.
Atlantic City Winter Wonderland Parade
Saturday, December 6, 2025 @ 4:30pm
Atlantic City, NJ
Celebrate the magic of the season at the Atlantic City Winter Wonderland Parade. Held along vibrant Atlantic Avenue, this festive holiday event features dazzling lights, joyful music, and family-friendly entertainment that captures the spirit of Christmas in Atlantic City. Whether you're a local or visiting the Jersey Shore, don’t miss this enchanting parade that brings the community together for an unforgettable winter celebration.
Ocean City Train Expo
December 6th, 7th 2025: 10 AM to 4 PM
Historic Music Pier
Boardwalk and Moorlyn Terrace
Ocean City, NJ
All aboard for family fun at the Ocean City, NJ Holiday Train Expo. Explore dazzling model train displays of all gauges, shop unique collectibles from expert vendors, and enjoy free admission in America’s Greatest Family Resort. This festive event offers free parking and unforgettable holiday charm by the boardwalk. Perfect for train enthusiasts, families, and holiday travelers seeking seasonal magic in South Jersey.
Somers Point Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
Saturday, December 6th, 2025 @ 6pm
Somers Point, NJ
The parade begins at 6pm at Dawes Avenue and continues along Shore Road to City Hall, 1 W. New Jersey Ave. Somers Point. Volunteer Fire Companies 1 & 2 will escort Santa Claus to City Hall where the tree lighting will take place after the parade. Parade participants can include floats, vehicles, bands, and walkers.
Wassail Day & Winter Encampment
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Historic Cold Spring Village
720 US Rt 9
Cape May, NJ
Step into the spirit of the season at the enchanting Wassail Day & Winter Encampment. This beloved annual event offers a festive blend of colonial holiday traditions, living history demonstrations, and family-friendly winter activities. Visitors can enjoy hot mulled cider, caroling, and interactive encampments that bring 18th-century winter life to vivid reality. Perfect for history buffs and holiday lovers alike, Wassail Day is a must-attend celebration that captures the charm of a bygone era in the heart of Cape May. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience authentic holiday cheer in one of New Jersey’s most treasured historic villages.
Chanukah Village Walk
Monday, December 15th, 2025, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Medford Village Park Gazebo
16 N Main Street
Medford, NJ
Admission: Free
Enjoy an enriching holiday experience for the whole family as Main Street Medford celebrates Chanukah.
The event features Latkes, Donuts and Hot Cider, Photo Booth, Chanukah Video Truck Presentation, Chanukah Beer at the Brewery, Crafts & Activities, Judah Maccabee, Holiday fun at Game on Arcade, Music and More!
@
6:30 pm Grand Menorah Lighting Corner Main Street & Allen.
Hanukkah Fireworks at KBA
Sunday, December 21st, 2025; 4:30pm
Kellman Brown Academy
1007 Laurel Oak Road
Vorhees, NJ
Registration is encouraged
Free; Open to the Community
This event features Hanukkah candle lighting, games, music, sweet treats, and a spectacular fireworks display! All activities will be held outdoors.
New Year's Eve Bash & Giant Blueberry Drop
Wednesday, December 31, 2026: 10:30pm until 12:30am
along Central Avenue
Downtown Hammonton, NJ
As the countdown to midnight approaches, the energy will build with live music by local favorite Beginners Luck, setting the soundtrack for a night filled with community spirit that will once again bring together residents and visitors for live music, fireworks, and the beloved Giant Blueberry Drop.
Complimentary hot chocolate provided by Casciano Coffee Bar & Sweetery will be available to help keep guests warm, and early arrivals can enjoy New Year's giveaways including hats, festive glasses, party blowers, and more, while supplies last. At the heart of the celebration is Hammonton's iconic Giant Blueberry, a powerful symbol of the town's agricultural roots, hardworking heritage, and enduring community pride. More than a countdown centerpiece, the blueberry represents generations of farmers, growers, and families who helped shape Hammonton into the town it is today.
The Historic Battleship New Jersey: Fireworks over the Delaware River
December 31, 2025
Camden, NJ
Families can enjoy an unforgettable evening filled with interactive exhibits, kid-friendly tours, and festive activities before gathering on deck for one of the region's most spectacular fireworks displays. With panoramic views of the Philadelphia skyline and the shimmering riverfront, make this the prime New Jersey vantage point for both the 6 p.m. and midnight fireworks displays a safe, family-friendly way to ring in the new year. Whether you're seeking history, entertainment, or dazzling pyrotechnics, the Battleship New Jersey delivers a unique New Year's Eve celebration that blends tradition, excitement, and lasting memories.
New Year's Eve Fireworks in Avalon
December 31, 2025: 3:30-5pm
30th Street beach & Surfside Park
Avalon, NJ
Fireworks will be sent from 35th Street beach Families are encouraged to access the beach at 30th Street and 32nd Street for safety/viewing purposes. Vehicles must use 38th or 20th Street Beach entrance if parking on the beach. No vehicular traffic entering or exiting will be permitted on the 32nd Street Beach Entrance.
First Night Ocean City
Wednesday, December 31, 2025; 4pm-midnight
Ocean City, NJ
Ring in 2026 with First Night Ocean City, New Jersey's beloved alcohol-free New Year's Eve celebration! This family-friendly event features over 70 live performances and activities across 23 venues, including music tributes, magic shows, ice skating, and more. Cap off the night with a dazzling fireworks display at midnight over the beach. Perfect for all ages, First Night Ocean City promises safe, spirited fun and unforgettable memories to start the new year right.
FAQs: December in NJ: Frequently Asked Questions for Holiday Fun
What is the weather like in December and how should I dress?
Expect cold temps and wind near the shore. Wear warm layers, a hat, gloves, and waterproof shoes. Bring a hand warmer for long light shows.
Do I need tickets or reservations?
Yes for theater shows, train rides, and many Cape May tours. Arrive early for free outdoor events, crowds build fast.
How can I avoid traffic and parking hassles?
Use NJ Transit when possible for city centers like Morristown and New Brunswick. For shore events, arrive early, look for municipal lots, and watch town street closure notices on event days.
Are events accessible?
Large venues and major town greens offer ADA access. Check each event site for parking info, seating, and mobility details before you go.
How do I keep up with date changes or weather delays?
Follow each event’s official site or social accounts for real time updates, especially for outdoor markets and parades. Winter weather can shift schedules with short notice.
