NJIB’s Guide to 30+ New Jersey Events December 20 – 22
‘Twas the weekend before Christmas and Hanukkah! There is plenty to do this weekend – from holiday markets and light shows to seasonal events there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your jacket, invite some friends, and savor these festive autumn days before winter arrives! PLUS you can find NJIB at Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar on Friday the 20th and Flounder’s Annual Kringle Market on December 21 & 22 (our last pop-up for the year!) Here is your guide to New Jersey Events from December 17 – December 22, 2024.
Check out our Event Guide for more events throughout the year. To submit your event, click here.
For more New Jersey Events and Adventures, follow along on Instagram, @newjerseyisntboring, and Insta Stories! Don’t forget to tag your own NJ fun with #NJisntBoring.
New Jersey Events December 17 – 22:
Skylands Stadium’s Light Show and Christmas Village
Now – December 22
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
Magic of Lights at PNC Bank Arts Center
Now – December 22
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 own 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+
Diggerland Drive-Thru Light Show
Now – December 22
Embark on an extraordinary experience at the Drive-Thru Holiday Light Show hosted by Diggerland, the unique construction theme and water park. Visitors can drive through the park, witnessing a spectacular light show, holiday displays, and enchanting tunnels, and tune in to the dedicated radio station to infuse their car with the festive spirit. Diggerland invites families to make this drive-thru holiday event a cherished tradition.
100 Pinedge Drive, West Berlin, NJ
Cost: $36.95 per car
Holiday Light Show at Historic Smithville
Now – December 22
Experience the magic as over 100 Christmas trees appear to float on Lake Meone, lighting up in sync with music for a mesmerizing show of lights and sound. This orchestrated holiday spectacle runs Thursday through Sunday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., beginning November 28 through January 5. Historic Smithville also offers 50 unique shops, 7 dining options, a carousel, a train ride, cozy lodging at the Colonial Inn, and over 26 free weekend events. The show starts at dark and continues until 8:30 p.m.
615 East Moss Mill Rd. Smithville, NJ
Cost: Free
Family Christmas Activities at Johnson’s Corner Farm
Now – December 22
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+
Winter WonderLights Annual Holiday Light Show Drive Thru
Now – December 22
Winter WonderLights, New Jersey’s largest animated holiday light show, returns for the 2024 season with an even more spectacular experience, starting November 29 at the Middlesex County Fairgrounds in East Brunswick. This year’s show promises expanded holiday magic, complete with new features and returning favorites. Guests can enjoy the festivities from the warmth of their own vehicles, tuning in to a synchronized radio station to experience festive music alongside stunning light displays as they drive through the animated winter wonderland. Notable additions for 2024 include a larger park area, two new light tunnels—bringing the total to six immersive tunnels—and bigger, brighter displays.
655 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick, NJ
Cost:$30 per car from Sunday through Thursday, and $35 on Fridays and Saturdays. $40 for tickets from December 20 – 28. An Unlimited Season Pass is $75.
Newark Winter Village
Now – December 22
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
Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights
Now – December 22
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. 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
U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland Tickets
Now – December 23
This magical holiday event features all of the festive classics with a floral twist.There’s unique and interactive light displays at every turn, a Santa Claus experience, food trucks, bakery, gift shop, makers market, and more! Start your new holiday tradition at Holland Ridge Farms. The entire farm will be lit from top to bottom with sparkling holiday lights. The flower fields will transform into a breathtaking, glowing sea of rainbow tulips, in all shapes and sizes. Discover unique, handmade goods and holiday treasures at our makers market, hosted by Asbury Fresh! From artisan crafts to one-of-a-kind gifts, this festive shopping experience is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Holland Ridge Farms, Cream Ridge, NJ
Cost: $15 – $17
The Village at Anne Ellen
Now – December 23
Embark on an enchanting adventure through a quaint winter wonderland, beginning with a nostalgic hayride through our Christmas tree fields. As you step off the wagon, you’ll be transported into a mesmerizing Christmas tale brought to life with twinkling lights and captivating displays. Wander along wooded pathways, soaking in the festive atmosphere and timeless holiday magic at every turn.
Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm, Manalapan NJ
Cost: $22, Kids 2-12 are $12
DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express
Now – December 23
This holiday event features a ride on an exciting train through millions of Christmas lights. The fun includes meeting Santa, a gift from Santa, a holiday movie, cookies, and a walk through the Holiday Village.
DiDonato’s Family Fun Center, 1151 S White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ
Cost: $23.95+
Christmas Underwater
Now – December 24
In the spirit of the season, Adventure Aquarium presents Christmas Underwater from November 23 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
Creamy Acre’s Night of Lights County Christmas Hayride
Now – December 24 (No show on Dec 22)
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.
Palmer Square Annual Menorah Lighting
December 18, 4 pm
The event features great music, great food and great fun for everyone. It has been a tradition for many years to celebrate Hanukah. A free event open to the community!
Nassau Inn Patio, 10 Palmer Square, Princeton, NJ
Cost: Free
Bell Works Fresh Holiday Markets
December 18 & 21, Wed 11 am – 4 pm, Sat from 12 pm – 5 pm
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
Morven’s “Festival of Trees”
December 18 – 22, 10 am – 4 pm
Morven’s annual winter exhibition has become a must-see Princeton holiday tradition. Visitors enjoy the museum’s elegant galleries, mantels, and porches artfully decorated for the holidays by local businesses, garden clubs, and non-profit organizations.
55 Stockton Street, Princeton, NJ
Cost: $0-$12
LuminoCity Winter Wonderland
December 18 – 23
The Luminocity Lights Festival in Freehold, NJ, is a dazzling winter wonderland that captivates visitors of all ages. This immersive light experience features larger-than-life illuminated displays, enchanting tunnels, and interactive installations inspired by nature, fantasy, and global cultures. As night falls, the festival’s vivid light sculptures transform the landscape into a magical realm, perfect for family outings, romantic strolls, and memorable photo opportunities.
Freehold Raceway Mall, 3710 US-9, Freehold, NJ
Cost: $29+
Off the Wall Holiday Market
December 19 & 21
The artists and artisans at the Off the Wall Holiday Market pour a great deal of love and dedication into their work, and it truly shines through. Each purchase not only supports their efforts but also furthers the mission to cultivate the artist within everyone. Don’t miss this chance to shop one-of-a-kind, artisan-made creations, ranging from fine art pieces to unique, handcrafted items. This is the largest show of the year, and it runs across weekends throughout the holiday season, giving ample time to find that perfect gift. Visitors are invited to enjoy a wonderful experience, complete with complimentary refreshments and more, making it an ideal outing with friends this holiday season.
West Windsor Arts, 952 Alexander Road, Princeton Junction, NJ
Cost: Free
Holiday Lights Hayride
December 19 – 22
Looking for family Christmas activities and holiday fun? Bring your family and friends for a festive holiday lights tractor-drawn hayride. Norz Hill Farm offers Hayride experiences complete with holiday lights, outdoor interactive displays, a spin by the animals, and perhaps a stop by Santa’s cornfield office! If you looking for family Christmas activities, Norz Hill Farm’s provides the best family fun and holiday lights in New Jersey.
Norz Hill Farm, 120 South Branch Rd., Hillsborough, NJ
Cost: $15
Old Fashioned Christmas on the Farm & Walk through Light Show
December 19 – 22
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
Let It Glow: A Holiday Lantern Spectacular
December 19 – 22
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 the picture but stunning in person. With over 30 scenes, these hand-made artistic wonders are more breathtaking than the last.
Bergen County Zoo at Van Saun County Park, 216 Forest Avenue, Paramus, NJ
Cost: Tickets available on Eventbrite
Downtown Candlelight Shopping
December 20
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
Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar
December 20 – 22, 12 pm – 5 pm
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Join The Bazaar for a festive and fun filled 2024 Holiday Bazaar in Asbury Park. The Bazaar is inspired by the traditional “Weihnachtsmarkts” holiday markets held in Germany and was rated the best holiday market in New Jersey by Food & Wine. The Holiday Bazaar will showcase handcrafted goods and unique holiday gifts by local and regional makers and small businesses, holiday music and entertainment, Photos with Santa, delicious food and libations, craft workshops, kids activities, festive décor, music, and more. Check out all the details below and mark your calendars for a magical holiday season you won’t forget.
Grand Arcade of Convention Hall, Asbury Park, NJ
Cost: Free to attend
Countdown to Christmas
December 21, 10 am – 4 pm
Attendees are invited to join the Countdown to Christmas, a Shopping Extravaganza, on Saturday, December 21st, from 10 am to 4 pm. It offers an opportunity to complete last-minute shopping while showing support for local businesses. The event features over 50 vendors, offers free admission, and includes a 50/50 draw hosted by St. Jude. Additionally, there will be food available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting St. Jude.
40 Maxim Drive, Hopatcong, NJ
Cost: Free to attend
Flounder’s Annual Kringle Market
December 21 & 22, 11 am – 5 pm
Events on the Farm NJ proudly presents the 4th annual Flounder’s Kringle Market at scenic Carriage Farm in Hillsborough, in partnership with Visit Somerset County. Shoppers can explore over 35 unique vendors offering one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, all carefully selected by Marketspace Vendor Events to ensure quality and originality. Steps Together will be serving Flounder beer and warm cider from Bellemara, with all proceeds benefiting this impactful local charity. Central Jersey Nurseries will be at the heart of the market, featuring Christmas trees, wreaths, and holiday greenery. Attendees can enjoy live music from a brass quintet performing classic holiday songs, capture photos with Santa inside Flounder Brewing, and catch a festive dance recital by a local company on select days
2 Clerico Rd, Hillsborough, NJ
Cost: $10 per car
Montclair Flea Holiday Market
December 21 & 22, 11 am – 6 pm
Featuring the best curated vintage and handmade goods, tasty eats and full bar, music and the best holiday vibes.
1 Lackawanna Plaza, Montclair, NJ
Cost: Free
Artist & Maker Market Happy Holiday Market
December 21 & 22, 12 pm – 6 pm
Explore two magical locations: Indoors at the Ashford Rooftop (145 Newark Ave), featuring 16 vendors each day. Outdoors at the Grove PATH Plaza (116 Newark Ave), hosting over 40 vendors daily. Find the perfect handmade gifts and fine art while enjoying holiday fun for the whole family. Treat yourself to unique handmade goods, beautiful art, bounce house fun, delicious treats and festive drinks, and Rooftop brunch at the Ashford Rooftop shopping venue.
Grove Street PATH Plaza and The Ashford Rooftop, Jersey City, NJ
Cost: Free
Night Owl Market: Highland Park’s Artisan, Crafter and Maker Market
December 21 & 22
Visit downtown Highland Park for specialty outdoor markets featuring a rotating variety of local artists, artisans, and crafters! #ShopSmall and do all your holiday shopping downtown. Located in the public square by the pavilion next to 212 Raritan Ave.
212 Raritan Ave, Highland Park, NJ
Cost: Free
Sea of Lights Holiday Lights
December 21 & 22, 4 pm – 8 pm
Celebrate the season at the annual Sea of Lights Holiday and Lights Spectacular! Delight in various entertainment from 5-8 pm, featuring Santa’s photo sessions followed by his festive dive into the Aquarium tanks. 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
Cost: Cost per activity
Holiday in the Park Six Flags Great Adventure
December 21 – 23
Get ready to experience your favorite amusement park in a festive way that puts you in the holiday spirit. Hope on the Ferris wheel, ride a coaster or take a spin on the carousel, all while being surrounded by glittering lights. There will be shows, rides, food, and of course, beautiful holiday displays along with the arrival of Santa.
1 Six Flags Blvd., Jackson, NJ
Cost: $39
Main Street Pops Holiday Market
December 22, 11 am – 4 pm
Main Street Pops invites everyone to join in the holiday celebrations this December with a series of festive events. Featuring a live ice sculpture carving demonstration. In addition to fun events, there will be a curated selection of artisan vendors offering unique gifts for everyone on your list, including fashion, accessories, jewelry, bath and body products, pet items, home décor, kids’ products, fine art, photography, artisanal foods, sweet treats, and more.
1401 Adams Street, Under 14th Street Viaduct, Hoboken, NJ
Cost: Free
South Orange Open-Air Holiday Market
December 22, 3 pm – 7 pm
Discover over 20 local artisans and craftspeople showcasing their finest: from handcrafted jewelry and trendy apparel to delectable treats, captivating art and one-of-a-kind gifts!
Village Plaza, South Orange, NJ
Cost: Free
Home for the Holidays
December 22, 3 pm
The Princeton Brass Band presents their ‘Home for the Holidays’ concert, which will feature a homecoming for our guest soloist, former PBB Music Director and Solo Euphonium player, current Solo Euphonium of the New York Staff Band, Aaron VanderWeele! This concert will also bring the band ‘home’ to Princeton, taking place at the gorgeous Richardson Auditorium in Alexander Hall at Princeton University.
Richardson Auditorium 68 Nassau St, Princeton, NJ
Cost: General Admission $25, students $15
Chanukah Village Walk
December 26, 5 pm – 7:15 pm
Immerse your entire family in a festive Chanukah celebration on Main Street Medford, offering an enriching holiday experience. The event includes delights such as Latkes, Donuts, and Hot Cider, along with a Photo Booth, Chanukah Video Truck Presentation, and Chanukah Beer at the Brewery. Engage in Crafts & Activities, encounter Judah Maccabee, and revel in holiday fun at Game on Arcade. The festivities reach a crescendo at 7 pm with the Grand Menorah Lighting at the corner of Main Street and Allen, accompanied by music and more for a memorable holiday gathering.
Medford Village Park, Main Street, Medford, NJ
Collingswood Menorah Lighting
December 26, 6 pm
Be a part of a Menorah Lighting and Chanukah Celebration at the Lumberyard Garden and enjoy an evening of fun for the whole family with music, latkes, donuts, dreidels, and choco-gelt.
Collings and North Atlantic Avenues, Collingswood, NJ
