Must-Visit December Events and Festivals in New Jersey: 2026 Edition

Updated: October 16, 2026

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.

This guide lists December 2026 festivals and holiday events in Northern, Central, and Southern New Jersey.
Options include holiday light displays, markets, parades, train shows, family activities, and New Year's Eve celebrations.
Some events begin in November or continue into January, so check each listing for its dates and schedule.
Admission ranges from free events to ticketed experiences; confirm current prices and availability with the event organizer.

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.

Northern New Jersey December 2026 Festivals and Holiday Events

Experience the magic of winter in Northern New Jersey with festive light displays, holiday markets, live performances, and family-friendly celebrations across the region throughout December 2026.

Orchard of Lights - Drive Thru

November 21 until December 29, 2026
Demarest Farms, 244 Wierimus Rd., Hillsdale, NJ
Visitors take their vehicle on a guided drive through 32 acres of illuminated orchards and festive holiday scenes, synchronized with seasonal music through their car radio. Guests can also enjoy the farm market, fire pits, hot cocoa, s'mores, Santa visits (through December 24), and optional access to the Winter Lights Petting Zoo. The drive-through experience typically lasts 20 to 25 minutes.
Cost: $35, Light Show Only, per vehicle (includes a visit with Santa)

Skylands Christmas Light Show & Christmas Village

November 21–December 30, 2026
Skylands Stadium, 94 Championship Pl., Augusta, NJ
Families can enjoy a spectacular mile-long drive-through light show featuring more than two million twinkling lights, animated displays, tunnels of light, and festive holiday scenes surrounding the stadium grounds. After the drive-through experience, visitors can explore the Christmas Village, featuring holiday vendors, seasonal treats, visits with Santa, fire pits, and family-friendly attractions.
Cost: $29 per single-entry carload.

German Christmas Market of NJ

December 4, 5, 6, 2026
Sussex County Fairgrounds, 37 Plains Rd, Augusta, NJ
This annual tradition brings the charm of a European Weihnachtsmarkt to Sussex County. Visitors can stroll through festive wooden vendor huts filled with handcrafted gifts, German imports, ornaments, holiday décor, and artisanal treasures while enjoying traditional German food, and other seasonal favorites. Includes live choirs, holiday entertainment, horse-drawn wagon rides, a carousel, model train displays, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Cost: GA (ages 13+): $10.00 | Senior (65+): $7.00 | Vets with ID: Free | Children 12 & Under: Free

Annual Tree of Lights Festival

December 5th, 2026: 5:30 p.m.
Village Green, Mountain Blv'd, Watchung, NJ
A heartwarming community tradition, hosted by the Watchung Rescue Squad, features the ceremonial lighting of the Tree of Lights, honoring loved ones and community members with glowing red and white lights. Guests can gather for an evening of holiday spirit, festive music, and refreshments.
Cost: Free to attend | To place a light on the tree for an honoree and remembrance, a tax-deductible donation of $50.00 per light.

Holiday Train Show and Open House

December 5, 6, 12, and 14, 2026: 11 AM to 6 PM
The Model Railroad Club, 295 Jefferson Ave, Union, NJ
The annual Holiday Train Show and Open House, features an impressive HO and N-scale model railroads featuring detailed miniature landscapes, realistic train operations, and scenes inspired by the railroads of New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. A special narrated presentation,"Jenny's Coming Home," is performed at the bottom of every hour, bringing the trains and railroad history to life through a 15-minute multimedia show.
Cost: Adult Ages 12 – 59: $6 | Senior Ages 60 & up: $5 | Child Ages 3 – 11: $4 | Children under 3: free

Northeast Film Festival - Horror Fest

December 5, 2026
Teaneck Cinemas, 503 Cedar Lane, Teaneck, NJ
This one night horror showcase brings together filmmakers, fans, and industry professionals for a spine-tingling celebration of the genre. From terrifying indie premieres to cult classics, the festival highlights the best in horror storytelling, special effects, and suspenseful artistry.
Cost: 2026 prices not published. Based on 2025, expect Single-Day Pass $30 each

Holiday Open House

December 6, 2026
Reeves-Reed Arboretum, 165 Hobart Avenue, Summit, NJ
Set among the arboretum's scenic gardens and woodlands, the Holiday Open House offers a charming alternative to busy shopping centers, inviting guests to create lasting holiday memories while supporting one of Union County's most treasured public gardens. The event features cookies and hot cocoa, holiday-themed crafts, winter story walks, carolers, and opportunities for photos with Santa in the historic Wisner House.
Cost: Member Price: $10 | Non-Member Price: $10 | Children under 12: free

Holiday Craft Show Morristown

December 11, 12, 13, 2026
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.
Cost: Admission: General $12, Seniors (62+) $10, Under 16 FREE

Celebrate New Year's Eve with a Fireworks Dinner Cruise

December 31, 2026
City Cruises, Liberty Landing Marina, 80 Audrey Zapp Dr, Jersey City, NJ
Sail into the new year savoring a delicious chef-curated buffet and breathtaking views of the glittering city skyline. Soak in spectacular views of NYC's iconic landmarks, such as the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. This New Year's Eve bash features a fully stocked open bar, live DJ entertainment, games, and dancing into the night!
Cost: Starting at $482.67

First Night Morris County

December 31, 2026
Morristown, NJ
A family-friendly, alcohol- and substance-free celebration on New Year's Eve. Your admission button grants unlimited access to over seven hours of entertainment, including 80+ performances, an acclaimed film festival. The night concludes with the traditional Midnight Countdown and Fireworks to welcome the New Year.
Cost: Early-Bird Pricing (Through December 21st): $25 Single / $90 (4-Pack) | Regular Pricing (December 22nd – December 31st): $30 Single / $95 (4-Pack)

Central NJ December 2026: Festivals & Seasonal Celebrations

Discover the highlight festivals, holiday markets, and seasonal celebrations lighting up Central New Jersey in December 2026. This guide showcases the top local events to help you celebrate the winter season with family and friends.

Festival of Trees

November 16, until January 10, 2027
Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, NJ
Step into a winter wonderland at the Festival of Trees, an annual holiday tradition held in the heart of Princeton. This festive exhibit transforms the historic mansion into a dazzling showcase of creatively decorated trees and mantels. Perfect for families, couples, and holiday enthusiasts, the Festival of Trees offers a magical blend of art, history, and seasonal cheer.
Cost: $60

The Winter Wonderlights Spectacular Drive-Thru

November 20, 2026 until January 3, 2027
Middlesex County Fairgrounds, 655 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick, NJ
Experience the magic of the Winter WonderLights Spectacular Drive-Thru. Features more than 2 million animated lights, dazzling tunnels, towering illuminated Christmas trees, and larger-than-life seasonal displays synchronized to holiday music played through your car radio. The spectacular combination of music, motion, and lights creates an immersive experience that delights visitors of all ages.
Cost: Monday–Thursday: $39.99 | Friday–Sunday: $49.99 | Holiday Week (Dec 23–26): $54.99

PNC Holmdel-Magic of Lights Show

November 20, 2026 until January 3, 2027
PNC Bank Arts Center, 116 Garden State Pkwy, Holmdel, NJ
Magic of Lights is a dazzling, drive-through holiday lights experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations. Experience Magic of Lights from the comfort and safety of your own car as you wind through the sparkling path of Holmdel’s new holiday tradition.
Cost: $23-$69, per vehicle

Old Fashioned Christmas on the Farm & Walk through Light Show!

Selected days. November 27-December 23, 2026; 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.
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.
Cost: Adults: $12 Children 18 & under: $6 Children under 1 Free

Polar Express

Trips run: December 4,5,6,11,12,13,18,19,20, 2026
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.
Cost: Single Level Cars Adult (13 and up) $51.93 ($48.00 + $3.93) | Child 2-12 years $41.42 ($38.00 + $3.42) | Double Decker Cars - Downstairs Adult (13 and up) $51.93 ($48.00 + $3.93) | Child 2-12 years $41.42 ($38.00 + $3.42)

Christmas on the Farm

December 5, 2026
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.
Cost: Free admission & parking

Winter Village -- Festival of Trees

December 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 2026: 10am-6pm
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.
Cost: Admission free for museum members. | Tickets at the door: $10 for adults, children 12 and under are free.

Christmas Con NJ

December 11, 12, 13, 2026
New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center, 97 Sunfield Avenue, Edison, NJ
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.
Cost: Adults: $69.99-$80.24 | Kids (4-10): $18.74-$39.24 | Children under age 4 free

New Jersey Sports Card Convention

December 18, 19, 2026
Warehouse 100, 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.
Cost: $11.15

Jurassic Quest roars through Edison, NJ

December 30, 2026 - January 3, 2027
New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center, Edison, NJ
Families can explore life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, enjoy hands-on fossil and science activities, meet baby dinosaurs, and take part in prehistoric-themed attractions designed for children of all ages. Combining education with adventure, this immersive event brings the age of dinosaurs to life, making it a fun-filled holiday outing for dinosaur enthusiasts and curious young explorers alike.
Cost: Adult GA (Ages 2+) $35.00

First Night Ocean County

December 31, 2026: 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.
Cost: Adults: $10 wristband Children: $6 wristband | Confirm with the official ticketing channel before the event.

Southern NJ December 2026: Festivals, & Holiday Celebrations

Discover the best festive events, seasonal parades, and holiday celebrations happening across Southern New Jersey this December 2026.

Diggerland Drive thru Holiday Light Show

November 20 until January 3, 2027
100 Pinedge Drive, West Berlin, NJ
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.
Cost: $37.99

Cape May Christmas Holiday Season

November 21 until January 3, 2027
Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May, NJ
The Cape May Christmas holiday season kicks off with the tree lighting ceremony on Saturday, November 21 and continues every weekend as the town is transformed into a Dickens village for the holidays with garlands of fragrant greens and twinkling gaslights. The popular Tree Lighting Ceremony occurs on December 4, and Candlelight House Tours are December 5, 12, and 19.
Cost: Free to attend. Fees for tours and special attractions

Smithville Holiday Light Show On The Lake

November 26 until January 6, 2027
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, offering visitors enchanting views from both sides of the lake and the iconic bridge.
Cost: Free to attend

DiDonato's Magical Holiday Express

December 4-23, 2026
DiDonato's Family Fun Center, Hammonton, NJ
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.
Cost: $22.95 - $31.95

Glassboro's Boro In Lights

December 4, 2026: 6 p.m. - 9 p.m
Glassboro Town Square, 1 High St W, Glassboro, NJ
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.
Cost: Free to attend

Ocean City Christmas Parade

December 4, 2026: 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.
Cost: Free

Wildwoods' Winter Festival - Christmas in The Plaza

December 4, 5, 2026
Byrne Plaza, Downtown Wildwood, NJ
Enjoy free carnival rides, vendors, and musical entertainment. There will be live music by the John Walter Band and story time with Mrs. Claus. On Friday, December 4 beginning at 6:00 p.m. The parade steps off on 16th Avenue in North Wildwood, proceeding south along Central Avenue, and continues along Pacific Avenue to Spicer Avenue where the parade will turn and proceed to Byrne Plaza. Following the parade, the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place.
Cost: Free

Ocean City Train Expo

December 5, 6, 2026: 10 AM to 4 PM
Historic Music Pier, Boardwalk and Moorlyn Terrace, Ocean City, NJ
Explore dazzling model train displays of all gauges, shop unique collectibles from expert vendors. This festive event offers unforgettable holiday charm by the boardwalk. Perfect for train enthusiasts, and families.
Cost: Free admission and parking

Atlantic City Winter Wonderland Parade

December 12, 2026: 4pm
O'Donnell Memorial Park, Atlantic City, NJ
Celebrate the holiday season along Atlantic Avenue with an evening of community and festive fun. Parade route will be down Atlantic Avenue, from New Hampshire Avenue to Albany Avenue and ending at O'Donnell Memorial Park at the Holiday Market.
Cost: Free

First Night Ocean City

December 31, 2026; 4pm-midnight
Ocean City, NJ
Ring in 2027 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
Cost: Buttons $20

Frequently Asked Questions About
December Events in New Jersey

What kinds of events take place in New Jersey in December?

New Jersey's December event calendar includes holiday light displays, craft shows, parades, train shows, markets, and family activities. The article also lists New Year's Eve celebrations in Ocean City, Seaside Heights, and Jersey City.

Which December events in New Jersey are free?

The article lists several free events, including the Annual Tree of Lights Festival in Watchung, Christmas on the Farm in Hopewell Township, the Smithville Holiday Light Show on the Lake, and the Ocean City Christmas Parade. Check each event's official page for current admission details and any fees for optional activities.

What are some family-friendly New Year's Eve events in New Jersey?

First Night Ocean City is an alcohol-free celebration with performances and activities at multiple venues, followed by midnight fireworks. First Night Ocean County offers an afternoon celebration on the Seaside Heights Boardwalk, while the Jersey City dinner cruise is a ticketed option.

Do New Jersey holiday events run beyond December?

Yes. Several listings begin in November or continue into January. Examples include the Cape May Christmas season, the Winter Wonderlights Spectacular Drive-Thru in East Brunswick, and the Festival of Trees at Morven Museum & Garden.

Should I confirm event prices before visiting?

Yes. Prices and schedules can change, and some listings identify 2026 prices as unpublished or estimate them using 2025 rates. Check the linked event organizer's page before making plans.