January 2026 in New Jersey:
Top Ten Must Things to Do and See

January in New Jersey: Cozy Adventures and Winter Fun You Shouldn’t Miss

---

---

January in New Jersey gets a bad rap. It is cold, the holidays are over, and a lot of people start searching for things to do January NJ because they assume nothing is going on. The truth is, this month can feel like a secret season if you know where to look.

Whether you're planning a family outing, a romantic weekend, or a winter escape with friends, this guide highlights the best things to do in New Jersey in January—complete with who each activity is perfect for and what makes it special.

This guide walks through ten of my favorite picks, mixing outdoor fun with warm, indoor spots. You can use it as a menu, pick one or two ideas, and build your own perfect winter weekend.

1. Kick Off the Year With Live Music at Light of Day WinterFest (Asbury Park & Beyond)

Light of Day WinterFest, January 16, 17, 18, 2026, is one of New Jersey’s most beloved annual music celebrations, transforming Asbury Park and surrounding towns into a multi venue showcase of rock, blues, folk, and Americana. What began as a grassroots effort to raise funds and awareness for Parkinson’s disease and related neurodegenerative disorders has grown into a nationally recognized festival featuring world class musicians, surprise guests, and unforgettable performances.

Across iconic venues like The Stone Pony, the Paramount Theatre, and Asbury Lanes, WinterFest brings together fans, artists, and the local community for days of live music, storytelling, and charity driven energy. Whether you're a longtime supporter or a first‑time visitor, the festival delivers that unmistakable Asbury Park magic—heartfelt, gritty, and full of soul.

• Best For: Music lovers who crave intimate performances, legendary Jersey Shore vibes, and multi genre lineups, Visitors looking for a meaningful winter getaway filled with culture, community, and live entertainment.
• Why It’s Special: Combines top tier live music with a powerful mission: raising funds and awareness for Parkinson’s and related diseases. Features surprise appearances, rare collaborations, and the unique spirit of Asbury Park’s historic music scene

Check the latest Light of Day WinterFest schedule for lineups.

2. Hit the Slopes at Mountain Creek

Mountain Creek’s signature winter experience, welcoming guests to enjoy a full day (or weekend) of skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and après ski fun. With on site rentals, lessons for all ages, cozy lodge dining, and easy access from anywhere in New Jersey, it’s the perfect way to embrace winter without traveling far from home.

• Best For: Families, beginners, seasoned skiers and riders, winter weekenders, and anyone craving an outdoor adventure close to home.
• Why It’s Special: Mountain Creek combines big mountain energy with local convenience—offering diverse terrain, top‑tier snowmaking, and a lively resort atmosphere that makes every visit feel like a mini vacation.

Check Mountain Creek's website for snow conditions and activities

3. Visit the Adventure Aquarium in Camden

Adventure Aquarium is one of the region’s most exciting family attractions, offering an immersive journey into the underwater world with more than 15,000 aquatic animals, hands on encounters, and awe inspiring exhibits. Located along the Camden Waterfront, this top rated New Jersey aquarium invites guests to explore sharks, hippos, penguins, stingrays, and vibrant marine habitats through interactive galleries and walk through experiences designed to spark curiosity and wonder. Whether you're planning a family day trip, a school outing, or a weekend adventure, Adventure Aquarium delivers a full day of discovery that blends education with unforgettable fun.

• Best For: Families, school groups, animal lovers, and anyone seeking an engaging, kid friendly indoor attraction year round.
• Why It’s Special: Home to the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast, the only great hammerhead shark on exhibit in the U.S., and the fan favorite Hippo Haven featuring massive Nile hippos in a unique underwater viewing habitat.

Check Adventure Aquarium's website for schedule

4. Chase Winter Birds and Sea Views in Cape May

January in Cape May transforms the Jersey Shore into a peaceful coastal sanctuary—an ideal time to chase winter birds and soak in sweeping sea views without the summer crowds. This seasonal experience invites visitors to explore Cape May’s globally recognized birding hotspots, from the quiet dunes to the windswept beaches and wildlife refuges. With crisp air, dramatic ocean horizons, and the arrival of wintering species like loons, gannets, sea ducks, and raptors, it’s a magical month for photographers, birders, and anyone who loves nature at its most serene. Whether you’re strolling the promenade, scanning the shoreline with binoculars, or joining a guided birding walk, January offers a rare blend of tranquility and natural spectacle that makes Cape May feel wonderfully wild.

• Best For: Birdwatchers, photographers, couples, and families seeking peaceful outdoor adventures along the Jersey Shore.
• Why It’s Special: Cape May is one of North America's premier birding destinations, and winter brings unique species and unobstructed ocean views you won't find in any other season.

Check out Winter Birding in Cape May

5. Garden State RV & Camping Show – Edison, NJ

The Garden State RV & Camping Show held on January 16, 17, 18, 2026 is one of the largest and longest running RV expos in the Northeast, bringing together outdoor enthusiasts, first time campers, and seasoned road trippers for a weekend of discovery. This annual event showcases a massive selection of new RV models, camping gear, travel accessories, and expert-led seminars designed to help visitors plan unforgettable adventures. Whether you're dreaming of a cross country journey or looking to upgrade your family’s weekend camping setup, this show delivers inspiration at every turn.

• Best For: Families, couples, and retirees looking to explore RV travel, compare models, and get hands on with the latest camping gear. New RV shoppers who want expert guidance, show‑exclusive pricing, and the chance to compare dozens of brands under one roof
• Why It’s Special: One of New Jersey’s premier RV showcases, featuring top manufacturers, local dealers, and exclusive show only deals

Check out The Garden State RV & Camping Show website for details

6. Experience the Grounds For Sculpture Winter Exhibitions

Step into a world where art, nature, and winter magic come together. Winter Wonders of Our Gardens at Grounds For Sculpture, on January 21, 2026 transforms the 42-acre sculpture park into a serene, cold season escape filled with shimmering landscapes, seasonal plantings, and immersive art experiences. Visitors can wander peaceful pathways, admire sculptures framed by frosted gardens, and enjoy the quiet beauty that winter brings to this beloved New Jersey destination. This seasonal exhibition invites guests to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience the gardens in a completely new light—where textures, shadows, and winter color palettes reveal details often overlooked in warmer months.

• Best For: Families, couples, and art lovers seeking a peaceful, scenic winter outing. Visitors looking for a unique blend of outdoor beauty, creativity, and seasonal inspiration
• Why It’s Special: Showcases the gardens’ winter character with curated landscapes, artful vignettes, and serene walking paths. Offers a rare opportunity to experience Grounds For Sculpture during its most tranquil and atmospheric season

Check the Grounds for Sculpture website for details

7. LSC After Dark: Apres Ski

LSC After Dark: Après Ski held on January 22, 2026, transforms Liberty Science Center into a chic alpine escape—no lift ticket required. This adults only, after hours event blends winter lodge vibes with high energy nightlife, featuring themed cocktails, DJ sets, immersive exhibits, and cozy ski‑resort aesthetics. Guests can explore the museum’s hands on experiences, dance under dazzling lights, and enjoy a night of winter magic right in the heart of Jersey City. Whether you're craving a stylish night out, a unique date idea, or a group adventure that breaks the routine, Après Ski delivers a perfect blend of science, nightlife, and seasonal charm.

• Best For: Adults looking for a fun, winter themed night out with music, drinks, and interactive exhibits. Couples, friend groups, and young professionals seeking a unique nightlife experience in Jersey City
• Why It’s Special: Combines the excitement of LSC’s award winning exhibits with the cozy, festive atmosphere of an alpine après ski lodge. Offers a rare adults only night at one of New Jersey’s most iconic attractions, complete with themed entertainment and seasonal surprises

Check the LSC After Dark website for details

8. Dessertopia in Morristown, NJ – A Sweet-Tooth Lover’s Dream Event

Dessertopia, held on January 24, 2026 is an immersive dessert festival that brings together the region’s top bakeries, chocolatiers, ice cream artisans, and pastry chefs for one unforgettable sugar filled celebration. Guests can stroll through a vibrant marketplace of treats, sample exclusive creations, watch live dessert demos, and discover new local favorites. From gourmet cupcakes and handcrafted truffles to over the top milkshakes and global sweets, Dessertopia transforms Morristown into a wonderland of indulgence perfect for all ages.

• Best For: Families, couples, and foodies looking for a fun, flavorful outing in North Jersey. Anyone who loves discovering new dessert shops, seasonal treats, and Instagram‑worthy sweets
• Why It’s Special: Features a curated lineup of New Jersey’s most creative dessert makers, offering items you won’t find anywhere else

Check the Dessertopia website for details

9. Atlantic City Wing Fest at the Golden Nugget – A Flavor Packed Winter Tradition

The Atlantic City Wing Fest on January 31, 12026 is one of New Jersey’s most mouthwatering winter food events, bringing together top local restaurants and pitmasters for a day dedicated entirely to chicken wing perfection. Held at the Golden Nugget’s lively Marina District location, this annual festival invites guests to sample an incredible variety of wings—classic, spicy, smoky, sweet, and wildly creative—while enjoying live entertainment, craft beer, and a fun, high energy atmosphere.

Visitors can taste unlimited wing samples, vote for their favorites, and watch chefs compete for the title of Best Wings in Atlantic City. With indoor and outdoor spaces, plenty of seating, and a festive vibe, Wing Fest has become a must attend culinary celebration for locals and tourists looking to warm up their winter with bold flavors and good company.

• Who It’s Best For: Families, couples, and food loving friends looking for a fun winter outing. Wing enthusiasts and festival goers who enjoy tasting events and chef competitions.
• Why It’s Special: It brings together Atlantic City’s best culinary talent under one roof for a single, flavor packed day. The combination of unlimited tastings, live entertainment, and a vibrant marina backdrop creates a uniquely festive winter experience

Check the Atlantic City Wing Fest website for details

10. Explore the Mount Holly Fire & Ice Festival

Held in downtown Mount Holly, this annual event held this year on Saturday, January 31st, 2026 turns the town into a living gallery. Professional ice carvers transform 300-pound blocks of ice into crystalline masterpieces while visitors enjoy a legendary chili cook-off.

• Best For: Foodies, photographers, and fans of unique art.
• Why it’s Special: The juxtaposition of freezing ice sculptures and spicy, hot chili creates the ultimate winter sensory experience.

Check the Fire & Ice Festival website for details

Frequently Asked Questions: January Activities in New Jersey