New Jersey Events Christmas Weekend 2023
Did you know it’s Christmas Eve this weekend? Where has the time gone?! New Jersey has a lot of great events this weekend including festive events, free activities, and much more. Check out our list of the top New Jersey events from now until December 24.
For more Christmas Light Shows, click here. For more Holiday events this December, click here.
Always check the weather and the event links before you attend in case of cancellations and rescheduling.
For more New Jersey events throughout the year, check out our Event Guide.
For more New Jersey adventures and New Jersey Events, be sure to follow along on Instagram, @newjerseyisntboring, and Insta Stories! Don’t forget to tag your own NJ fun with #NJisntBoring.
New Jersey Events this Week:
Newark Winter Village
Now – January 2024. Wed – Fri 3 pm – 8 pm Sat & Sun 12 pm – 8 pm
Embark on a winter adventure in the heart of downtown with a perfect blend of family fun and thrilling activities. Lace up your skates and glide across the icy rink, creating unforgettable moments for families and groups of friends. For a unique and competitive twist, try our exhilarating Go Karts on the icy track—a surefire way to add excitement to your winter festivities. For those seeking a more intimate experience, indulge in the warmth of your own private igloo. Revel in the company of friends and family while enjoying delicious food and drinks in these cozy domes. It’s the ideal setting for creating cherished memories in the midst of the winter wonderland.
Downtown Newark, NJ
Cost: Varies Per Activity
Family Christmas Activities at Johnson’s Corner Farm
Now – December 23
Join together by the fire pits at Johnson’s Corner Farm’s Discovery Barnyard to toast marshmallows and witness the lake illuminate in a stunning display. Don’t miss out on the Christmas “Light Show” Hayride for a festive journey through more of the farm adorned with holiday lights.
Johnson’s Corner Farm, 133 Church Rd., Medford, NJ
Cost: $9.95+
Old Fashioned Christmas on the Farm & Walk through Light Show
Now- December 23, Thursday – Sunday 4-8 pm
Upon arrival, families can head to Allaire Community Farm’s historic 100-year-old Barn, transformed into a festive Farmers Market. Amidst a charming Christmas village display, they can obtain admission, feed bags, Polar Express tickets, Yuletide wagon ride tickets, and enjoy warm hot chocolate. Exiting the market, the journey into the Farm unfolds like a magical Lifesize Christmas village, offering a preview of the upcoming adventure. With indoor and outdoor petting zoos, Santa photo ops, holiday movies, a Model Train House, and a picturesque holiday ambiance, visitors are immersed in festive spirit. Opting for a Yuletide Wagon ride or Polar Express tickets adds magic, guiding families through tunnels of lights, the Mighty Christmas Village, and outdoor paddocks with various animals. The event proceeds directly support the nonprofit organization’s mission, benefiting rescued animals and programs for special needs individuals, teens with mental health issues, and Veterans with PTSD throughout the winter season.
1923 Baileys Corner Rd, Wall Township, NJ
Cost: $6 Children 18 & under, $10 Adults, Children under 1 are free
Creamy Acre’s Night of Lights County Christmas Hayride
Now – December 24
Experience holiday traditions at Creamy Acres as the 100-acre dairy farm becomes a Christmas Wonderland with dazzling light displays, Musical Dancing Tree shows, and festive lights. Families can enjoy the magic from their vehicles, tuning in to the private radio station for favorite Christmas songs. The Night of Lights Light Show Extravaganza now features a doubled display, creating an even more awe-inspiring one-and-a-half-mile drive-through experience.
448 Lincoln Mill Road, Mullica Hill, NJ
Cost: $35 in advance, $40 at the gate.
Christmas Underwater
Now – December 24
In the spirit of the season, Adventure Aquarium presents Christmas Underwater from November 24 to December 24! Guests can experience the festive magic as Scuba Santa takes a dive with sharks, sea turtles, and rays, spreading Christmas cheer to all visitors. Both on land and sea, holiday surprises await, featuring the World’s Tallest Underwater Christmas Tree and enchanting snow-like flurries in the Snowtunda.
Adventure Aquarium, 1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ
Cost: $27.99 – $47.99
Winter WonderLights
Now – December 31
In New Jersey’s largest animated holiday light show drive-thru at Middlesex County Fair Grounds, over 1.5 million lights dance to cherished holiday tunes. The family-owned business, with a two-decade history of creating spectacular Christmas light displays, presents Winter WonderLights, featuring 30′ Christmas trees, four magical tunnels, a tribute to first responders and the US Armed Forces, and other breathtaking, larger-than-life holiday displays—all synchronized to the music playing in visitors’ cars. This year, a new addition is Dave’s Delicious Fries Food Truck on-site, offering renowned fries and other delectable snacks, allowing guests to bundle up in their cars, tune in to the radio, and enjoy an incredible holiday experience.
655 Cranbury Rd East Brunswick, NJ
Holiday Lights Trolley Ride
Now – December 31
A trolley ride along the historic streets of Cape May is a delightful experience, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere. As Christmas music fills the air, participants can also learn about the historical roots of many contemporary Christmas traditions. The Victorian charm of Cape May shines particularly bright during the holiday season, making this trolley ride an ideal outing to share with friends and family, reveling in the Christmas spirit of Cape May. The trolleys are open-air, and it’s recommended to bring blankets for added comfort.
1048 Washington St., Cape May, NJ
Cost: $20 Adults, $15 Kids
Christmas Fantasy with Lights
Now – December 30, dates and times vary
In the most magical time of the year, Storybook Land invites visitors to join the enchantment. At 5:00 pm each night, Santa Claus waves his magic wand, illuminating Storybook Land with over 1 million lights for the holiday season. Tickets are available for either weekdays (Mondays through Thursdays) or weekends (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays).
Storybook Land, 6415 Black Horse Pike (Routes 40/322), Egg Harbor Township, NJ
Cost: $32.95
Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms
Now – December 30
Embrace the enchantment of the holiday season at Demarest Farms. Immerse yourself in the joy and wonder of the Orchard of Lights, guiding your vehicle through 32 acres of dazzling holiday light displays. Cozy up by the fire pit, indulge in hot cocoa and treats at the retail farm market, and capture memories with Santa. Engage in festive activities such as crafting your own s’mores, listening to Santa’s singing reindeer, and more.
Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms, 244 Wierimus Rd., Hillsdale, NJ
Cost: $35 per car
South Jersey Holiday Lights Show
Now – December 30 (Select Dates); Opens at 5 pm
The South Jersey Holiday Light Show is the only drive-through holiday light spectacular in Southern New Jersey. Featuring dozens of dazzling, larger-than-life holiday-themed displays to delight the entire family. Visitors are welcome to bundle up in their car, pack a favorite snack or beverage, and tune their radio to enjoy the synced light performance as they travel the more than 1 mile route through the holiday light show. The show is approximately 20-25 minutes long.
Bridgeport Speedway, 83 Flood Gate Rd, Swedesboro, NJ
Skylands Stadium’s Light Show and Christmas Village
Now– December 30
Visitors are invited to their favorite stadium for the holidays to explore an outdoor Christmas Village featuring various attractions. Highlights include a Drive-Thru Lightfest, an outdoor skating rink, opportunities for photos with Santa, a S’mores station, local artisan shops, carnival rides, and a selection of seasonal food and drinks.
Skylands Stadium, Augusta, NJ
Cost: $29 per car
Smithville Village’s Holiday Light Show
Now – December 31, every night, 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Watch in wonderment as over 100 Christmas trees magically float on Lake Meone and light up to the music around you. It is an orchestrated show of lights and music played out across the lake.
615 East Moss Mill Road, Galloway, NJ
New Brunswick’s Winter Wonderland
Now – December 31
Immerse yourself in the enchantment of our Winter Wonderland with a host of festive activities. From the “Miracle on George Street” on November 24th to a dazzling Holiday Tree Lighting on December 1st, the magic continues with musical performances, ice skating, a Gingerbread House Decorating Contest, and more. Delight in “A Magical Cirque Christmas,” explore the Festival of Trees, and enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides. Embrace the holiday spirit with events like “SoulTown to Motown” and “The Nutcracker,” and capture festive moments with Santa. Rock out with holiday shows, laugh at the Holiday Comedy Jam!, and welcome the new year with “Salute to Vienna” and New Year’s Eve festivities.
Downtown New Brunswick, NJ
Cost: Varies Per Event
Wildwoods’ Family Holiday Celebration
Now – December 31
Wildwood’s holiday celebrations offer a plethora of entertainment and activities aimed at creating lasting family memories. From bonfires and parades to light shows, craft fairs, tree lightings, and visits with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Downtown, Wildwood, NJ
Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights
Now – December 31 (closed Dec 24 & 25)
During the holiday season, individuals can enjoy a winter stroll through the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, bathed in the glittering lights of over 50 winter and animal characters. Embracing the spirit of giving, visitors are encouraged to bring donations of non-perishable food items, new toys, and gently used coats. The 2023 Holiday Lights event runs from 5 pm to 9 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, starting from November 17 to December 3, and nightly from December 8 to December 31 (closed on December 24 & 25). Admission is free, and attendees can engage in various activities such as visiting the carousel, touch tank, face painting, reptile house, farm, train, and gift shop (some activities may have associated fees). Reservations are not required. This special event offers a unique backdrop with some animals, focusing on an evening stroll through light displays and photo opportunities with friends and family. Seasonal activities include a s’mores station, Grinch weekend, and photos with Santa. While not all areas of the Zoo are open and accessible, visitors can explore the Touch Tank, Reptile House, and Farm to catch a glimpse of some animals.
Turtle Back Zoo, West Orange, NJ
The Village At Anne Ellen 2022
Now – December 30, Wednesday – Saturday
Welcome to The Village at Anne Ellen, where holiday magic unfolds into an enchanting experience in a winter wonderland of festive joy. Picture yourself strolling through a picturesque village adorned with twinkling lights and holiday decor, each corner holding delightful surprises. This walk-through light display features interactive exhibits, including a life-sized gingerbread house, an igloo, a candy cane factory, Santa’s coal mine, and a charming village of houses—all meticulously crafted to immerse visitors in the holiday spirit. Families can create cherished memories, surrounded by children’s laughter and the warm glow of the season. Explore Santa’s house, marvel at the candy cane factory’s magic, or venture into Santa’s coal mine where elves mine for the naughty kids. The Christmas village at Anne Ellen is where holiday dreams come true, celebrating the spirit of the season at every turn. It serves as a perfect backdrop for festive photos, creating lifelong memories, and embracing the magic of the holidays.
Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm, 114 Daum Road Manalapan, NJ
Cost: $22, Kids $12
Magic of Lights at PNC Bank Arts Center
Now – December 30
The 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 car as you wind through the sparkling path of New Jersey’s favorite holiday tradition. One carload, one price.
PNC Bank Arts Center, Exit 116, Garden State Parkway, Holmdel, NJ
Cost: $20+
Winter WonderLights
Now – December 31
In New Jersey’s largest animated holiday light show drive-thru at Middlesex County Fair Grounds, over 1.5 million lights dance to cherished holiday tunes. The family-owned business, with a two-decade history of creating spectacular Christmas light displays, presents Winter WonderLights, featuring 30′ Christmas trees, four magical tunnels, a tribute to first responders and the US Armed Forces, and other breathtaking, larger-than-life holiday displays—all synchronized to the music playing in visitors’ cars. This year, a new addition is Dave’s Delicious Fries Food Truck on-site, offering renowned fries and other delectable snacks, allowing guests to bundle up in their cars, tune in to the radio, and enjoy an incredible holiday experience.
655 Cranbury Rd East Brunswick, NJ
Holiday Lights Trolley Ride
Now – December 31
A trolley ride along the historic streets of Cape May is a delightful experience, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere. As Christmas music fills the air, participants can also learn about the historical roots of many contemporary Christmas traditions. The Victorian charm of Cape May shines particularly bright during the holiday season, making this trolley ride an ideal outing to share with friends and family, reveling in the Christmas spirit of Cape May. The trolleys are open-air, and it’s recommended to bring blankets for added comfort.
1048 Washington St., Cape May, NJ
Cost: $20 Adults, $15 Kids
Christmas Fantasy with Lights
Now – December 30, dates and times vary
In the most magical time of the year, Storybook Land invites visitors to join the enchantment. At 5:00 pm each night, Santa Claus waves his magic wand, illuminating Storybook Land with over 1 million lights for the holiday season. Tickets are available for either weekdays (Mondays through Thursdays) or weekends (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays).
Storybook Land, 6415 Black Horse Pike (Routes 40/322), Egg Harbor Township, NJ
Cost: $32.95
Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms
Now – December 30
Embrace the enchantment of the holiday season at Demarest Farms. Immerse yourself in the joy and wonder of the Orchard of Lights, guiding your vehicle through 32 acres of dazzling holiday light displays. Cozy up by the fire pit, indulge in hot cocoa and treats at the retail farm market, and capture memories with Santa. Engage in festive activities such as crafting your own s’mores, listening to Santa’s singing reindeer, and more.
Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms, 244 Wierimus Rd., Hillsdale, NJ
Cost: $35 per car
South Jersey Holiday Lights Show
Now – December 30 (Select Dates); Opens at 5 pm
The South Jersey Holiday Light Show is the only drive-through holiday light spectacular in Southern New Jersey. Featuring dozens of dazzling, larger-than-life holiday-themed displays to delight the entire family. Visitors are welcome to bundle up in their car, pack a favorite snack or beverage, and tune their radio to enjoy the synced light performance as they travel the more than 1 mile route through the holiday light show. The show is approximately 20-25 minutes long.
Bridgeport Speedway, 83 Flood Gate Rd, Swedesboro, NJ
Skylands Stadium’s Light Show and Christmas Village
Now– December 30
Visitors are invited to their favorite stadium for the holidays to explore an outdoor Christmas Village featuring various attractions. Highlights include a Drive-Thru Lightfest, an outdoor skating rink, opportunities for photos with Santa, a S’mores station, local artisan shops, carnival rides, and a selection of seasonal food and drinks.
Skylands Stadium, Augusta, NJ
Cost: $29 per car
Smithville Village’s Holiday Light Show
December 1 – 31 every night, 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Watch in wonderment as over 100 Christmas trees magically float on Lake Meone and light up to the music around you. It is an orchestrated show of lights and music played out across the lake.
615 East Moss Mill Road, Galloway, NJ
New Brunswick’s Winter Wonderland
December 1 – 31
Immerse yourself in the enchantment of our Winter Wonderland with a host of festive activities. From the “Miracle on George Street” on November 24th to a dazzling Holiday Tree Lighting on December 1st, the magic continues with musical performances, ice skating, a Gingerbread House Decorating Contest, and more. Delight in “A Magical Cirque Christmas,” explore the Festival of Trees, and enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides. Embrace the holiday spirit with events like “SoulTown to Motown” and “The Nutcracker,” and capture festive moments with Santa. Rock out with holiday shows, laugh at the Holiday Comedy Jam!, and welcome the new year with “Salute to Vienna” and New Year’s Eve festivities.
Downtown New Brunswick, NJ
Cost: Varies Per Event
Wildwoods’ Family Holiday Celebration
Now – December 31
Wildwood’s holiday celebrations offer a plethora of entertainment and activities aimed at creating lasting family memories. From bonfires and parades to light shows, craft fairs, tree lightings, and visits with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Downtown, Wildwood, NJ
Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights
Now – December 31 (closed Dec 24 & 25)
During the holiday season, individuals can enjoy a winter stroll through the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, bathed in the glittering lights of over 50 winter and animal characters. Embracing the spirit of giving, visitors are encouraged to bring donations of non-perishable food items, new toys, and gently used coats. The 2023 Holiday Lights event runs from 5 pm to 9 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, starting from November 17 to December 3, and nightly from December 8 to December 31 (closed on December 24 & 25). Admission is free, and attendees can engage in various activities such as visiting the carousel, touch tank, face painting, reptile house, farm, train, and gift shop (some activities may have associated fees). Reservations are not required. This special event offers a unique backdrop with some animals, focusing on an evening stroll through light displays and photo opportunities with friends and family. Seasonal activities include a s’mores station, Grinch weekend, and photos with Santa. While not all areas of the Zoo are open and accessible, visitors can explore the Touch Tank, Reptile House, and Farm to catch a glimpse of some animals.
Turtle Back Zoo, West Orange, NJ
The Village At Anne Ellen 2022
Now – December 30, Wednesday – Saturday
Welcome to The Village at Anne Ellen, where holiday magic unfolds into an enchanting experience in a winter wonderland of festive joy. Picture yourself strolling through a picturesque village adorned with twinkling lights and holiday decor, each corner holding delightful surprises. This walk-through light display features interactive exhibits, including a life-sized gingerbread house, an igloo, a candy cane factory, Santa’s coal mine, and a charming village of houses—all meticulously crafted to immerse visitors in the holiday spirit. Families can create cherished memories, surrounded by children’s laughter and the warm glow of the season. Explore Santa’s house, marvel at the candy cane factory’s magic, or venture into Santa’s coal mine where elves mine for the naughty kids. The Christmas village at Anne Ellen is where holiday dreams come true, celebrating the spirit of the season at every turn. It serves as a perfect backdrop for festive photos, creating lifelong memories, and embracing the magic of the holidays.
Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm, 114 Daum Road Manalapan, NJ
Cost: $22, Kids $12
Magic of Lights at PNC Bank Arts Center
Now – December 30
The 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 car as you wind through the sparkling path of New Jersey’s favorite holiday tradition. One carload, one price.
PNC Bank Arts Center, Exit 116, Garden State Parkway, Holmdel, NJ
Cost: $20+
Bell Works Fresh Holiday Markets
December 20 & 23 Wednesdays from 11AM – 4PM, Saturdays from 2pm – 7pm
A series of shopping events featuring a curated collection of 75 local handmade artists & makers coming together for a holiday celebration.
Bell Works 101 Crawfords Corner Road Holmdel, NJ
Cost: Free
Downtown Candlelight Shopping
December 22
Candlelight Shopping features Santa, carriage rides, carolers and twinkling luminarias lining the quaint streets. With over 200 shops and restaurants offering distinctive gifts and friendly customer service, businesses along Kings Highway and Downtown Haddonfield’s charming side streets – which include Mechanic Street, Ellis Street, Tanner Street, Haddy Lane, Kings Court, and Haddon Avenue – welcome everyone to shop in their beautifully curated stores and find delightful holiday treasures. Discover an array of incredible gifts in distinctive shops, food/beverage establishments, and boutiques, while enjoying the festivities and town-wide twinkling décor.
Downtown Haddonfield, NJ
Sea of Lights Holiday Lights
December 22 & 23, 4 pm – 8 pm
Celebrate the season at the annual Sea of Lights Holiday and Lights Spectacular, taking place on December 9th, 16th, 22nd, 23rd, 27th, and 28th from 4-8 pm each night. Delight in various entertainment from 5-8 pm, featuring Santa’s photo sessions on December 9th, 16th, 22nd, and 23rd, followed by his festive dive into the Aquarium tanks on December 27th & 28th at 5 pm & 6:30 pm. Exciting new holiday entertainment includes Princess Sweets & Treats with the Winter Princess & Queen, Elf Storytime, Snow-ville Shows, Eyes of the Wild Animal Shows, and character meet-and-greets with the happy reindeer and dancing snowman from a beloved “chilly” movie. This festive extravaganza unfolds inside the Jenkinson’s Pavilion and Jenkinson’s Aquarium
300 Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
