New Jersey This Weekend:
Events, Festivals, and Top Things to Do
New Jersey weekend events: January 1, 2, 3, 2026
January 1 to Looking for the best NJ events this weekend? From Friday, January 1st to Sunday, January 3, 2026, the Garden State is packed with can’t-miss experiences for families, couples, and curious explorers, perfect if you’re searching “things to do in New Jersey” or “New Jersey events near me.”
Discover seasonal festivals, food fairs, live concerts, and cultural showcases across North, Central, and South Jerseyقcurated to highlight local flavor, cozy cold-weather fun, and community spirit. With crisp air and early sunsets, it’s the ideal time for twinkling light displays, indoor markets, and festive night outings.
Planning a quick day trip or a full weekend escape? Explore our top picks, maps, and ticket links to make your New Jersey weekend effortless and unforgettable.
Top Outdoor Events & Festivals in New Jersey This Weekend
Soak Up the Season: New Jersey’s Must-See seasonal Outdoor Events
Diggerland Drive thru Holiday Light Show
Januay 1st 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
Let It Glow: A Holiday Lantern Spectacular
January 1 until January 11, 2026
Bergen County Zoo at Van Saun County Park,
Paramus, NJ
Larger-than-life glowing lanterns have been installed creating 30+ glowing scenes. See animals real and imagined laid out throughout the zoo.
Let it Glow is a symphony of vivid glowing colors to tease your eyes and dazzle the mind. Come and enjoy an enchanting stroll throughout the zoo These larger than life lanterns are amazing in picture but stunning in person! With over 30 scenes, these hand-made artistic wonders are more breath-taking than the last! Its one of those things you need to see in person to truly appreciate.
Magic of Lights at PNC Bank Arts Center
January 1, 2, 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.
U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland
January 1, 2, 3, 2026,
Holland Ridge Farms,
Cream Ridge, NJ
Experience 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.
Best Indoor Events in New Jersey This Weekend: Live Theater, Shows, and Concerts
As temperatures drop, step inside and discover the thrilling indoor attractions waiting at New Jersey’s top venues.
Love Story – A Tribute to Taylor Swift
January 2, 3, 2026,
The Broadway Theatre, Pitman, NJ
Love Story – A Tribute to Taylor Swift brings fans an unforgettable, high energy celebration of Taylor’s biggest hits. This dazzling live tribute captures the magic, emotion, and storytelling that define Taylor Swift’s iconic eras—from country roots to pop anthems—performed with stunning vocals, dynamic choreography, and immersive staging. Perfect for families, couples, and devoted Swifties, this limited engagement concert experience transforms Pitman into a vibrant musical escape. If you’re searching for Taylor Swift tribute shows in New Jersey, this is a must see event to kick off 2026 with sparkle and nostalgia.
The Hook
January 2, 3, 2026 , Harrahs Resort, Atlantic City
The electrifying spectacle, Spiegelworld's bold, adults-only variety show that redefines Boardwalk entertainment. This high-octane residency blends jaw-dropping acrobatics, unhinged comedy, and glamorous chaos into a 75-minute thrill ride, perfect for couples and nightlife seekers.
Hollywood in New Jersey: David Newman & Sebastian Knauer
January 3, 2026, Prudential Hall, Newark, NJ
Hollywood glamour meets Garden State grandeur as acclaimed composer David Newman and celebrated pianist Sebastian Knauer bring their cinematic magic to Prudential Hall. This special event transforms Newark into a symphonic movie palace, blending lush orchestral arrangements with the emotional sweep of classic and contemporary film scores. Newman’s legendary Hollywood lineage and Knauer’s expressive virtuosity create a spellbinding evening where music, storytelling, and nostalgia collide. It’s a rare chance for New Jersey audiences to experience the sparkle of Hollywood live on stage—right in the heart of Newark.
Magic Rocks starring Illusionist Leon Etienne
January 3, 2026,
Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown, NJ
This performance features a high energy fusion of grand illusions, rock concert flair, and razor sharp showmanship to Morristown. Known for his appearances on America's Got Talent, Penn & Teller: Fool Us, and Late Night, Etienne delivers a fast paced spectacle packed with mind‑bending magic, sleight of‑hand wizardry, and edge of your seat moments that keep audiences guessing. Perfect for families, date nights, and anyone craving a dose of wonder, Magic Rocks! transforms the stage into a world where the impossible feels thrillingly within reach. Let Leon Etienne kick off your new year with a night of astonishment and pure entertainment.
Top New Jersey Family Events for Kids This Weekend
Make fresh memories with these easygoing, family friendly events.
The 22nd Annual Antique Toy Train Show
Friday, Saturday and Sunday, January 1, 2, 3, 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.
Disney's Frozen
Friday, Saturday and Sunday, January 1, 2, 3, 2026, Papermill Playhouse, Millburn, NJ
This enchanting Broadway musical brings Elsa, Anna, and Olaf to life with dazzling performances, unforgettable songs like “Let It Go”, and breathtaking sets perfect for families and theater lovers alike.
Top Fun, Educational & Adventurous Things To Do in New Jersey This Weekend
This weekend in New Jersey, find the Fun things to do for couples, families, kids, singles, and adventure seekers with local events near you. Updated weekly, explore an exciting lineup of events and attractions across the Garden State. From cultural festivals and outdoor adventures to holiday celebrations and kid-friendly activities, New Jersey's weekend calendar is filled with opportunities to spark imagination, embrace seasonal fun, and create lasting memories. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family outing, or a day of exploration, New Jersey offers vibrant experiences that blend entertainment, education, and adventure.
