New Jersey Winter Villages 2023
Embarking on a journey through the winter villages of New Jersey is like stepping into a magical wonderland where the charm of the season comes to life against the backdrop of quaint towns and picturesque landscapes.
As the chill in the air transforms the Garden State into a snow-kissed paradise, visitors are treated to a unique and enchanting experience. From the warmth of cozy cafes to the twinkle of holiday lights adorning historic streets, each village unveils its distinctive character, inviting explorers to immerse themselves in the festive spirit and discover the hidden treasures that make New Jersey’s winter villages a delightful destination for seasonal escapades.
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.
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New Jersey Winter Villages:
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New Brunswick’s Winter Wonderland
Now – December 31
Experience the enchantment of the winter season with a myriad of festive activities in our Winter Wonderland. The magic begins on November 24th with “Miracle on George Street,” followed by a dazzling Holiday Tree Lighting on December 1st. Immerse yourself in the harmonious tunes of The Duprees and tenor Amine Hachem on the same evening, accompanied by Victorian strolling carolers and live ice sculpture demonstrations. Engage in the holiday spirit with a Gingerbread House Decorating Contest from December 1st to 3rd and glide across the ice at Monument Square Park on December 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. Delight in the spectacle of “A Magical Cirque Christmas” on December 1st and explore the American Hungarian Foundation’s 35th Annual Festival of Trees on December 3rd. The festivities continue with the Mercado Esperanza Holiday Market & Christmas Tree Lighting on December 3rd and enchanting horse-drawn carriage rides on December 5th, 12th, 19th, 15th, 16th, and 17th. Savor the holiday spirits on December 6th, witness “The Illusionists—Magic of the Holidays,” and groove to “SoulTown to Motown: Holiday Show” on December 8th.
The Vienna Boys Choir graces us on December 8th, followed by the Hungarian Christmas Market on December 9th and the Rutgers Big Chill 5K on the same day. Revel in the sounds of Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis on December 10th, and feel the soul of the season on December 14th with “Holiday Soul.” Ballet enthusiasts can enjoy “The Nutcracker” on December 15th, 16th, and 17th, while Santa enthusiasts can capture selfies with the man in red on December 16th. Rock the holiday season with Stone Cold and The Jackal Holiday Show on December 16th, and find your way “Home for the Holidays” on December 17th. Chuckle your way into the festive season with the Annual Holiday Comedy Jam! featuring talent and guests on December 20th. Embrace the spirit of Kwanzaa with the Community Kwanzaa Celebration on December 28th, and end the year on a high note with “The Hip Hop Nutcracker” on December 29th. Welcome the new year with the grandeur of “Salute to Vienna” on December 31st, and bid farewell to the old year with New Year’s Eve Fireworks & Parties, as well as the New Year’s Eve Extravaganza!! with Jesus Trejo on the same night. Join us for a season filled with joy, laughter, and the warmth of community celebration.
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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 amid the winter wonderland.
The Village At Anne Ellen
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
Holiday in the Park Six Flags Great Adventure
Select Dates November 24 – January 1, 2024
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: $50 and up
Historic Smithville
Now – December 23
In December, the quaint town of Smithville undergoes a festive transformation into a Christmas wonderland, offering a range of enchanting experiences. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with shopping, a stunning lakeside light show, a charming holiday train ride, and the whimsy of an enchanted talking tree. Take a leisurely pace, relish the magic of the season, and explore the delightful Christmas village atmosphere in New Jersey.
Historic Smithville, Route 9 and Moss Mill Road, Smithville, NJ
Historic Allaire Village
Various December events
Transport yourself to a bygone era and relish the uncomplicated joys of the festive season in a beautifully adorned historical village. Experience the charm of Victorian-era crafts, engaging games, heartwarming caroling, and enchanting decorations throughout the locale. In December, partake in special events such as Christmas at Allaire, The Holiday Evening Stroll, and the Lantern Tour after dark—an ideal choice for a memorable holiday date night. Delve into the rich history of Allaire and its holiday traditions this season.
Allaire Village, Inc., 4263 Atlantic Avenue, Farmingdale, NJ
Christmas in Cape May
Now – January 1
There’s no more fitting locale to immerse yourself in the genuine essence of Christmas than Victorian Cape May. This coastal town undergoes a Dickensian metamorphosis during the holidays, adorned with aromatic green garlands and sparkling gaslights. Envelop yourself in the festive ambiance, and indulge in a range of delightful tours and events that capture the joyous spirit of the season. Engage in a multitude of festive activities, including trolley rides adorned with holiday lights and featuring Santa, guided tours of historic homes and inns, as well as delightful breakfast events, including the cherished “Breakfast with Santa” and many other exciting offerings.
1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ
Palmer Square Holiday Happenings
Now – December 24, Skating on the Square Goes until February 25
Wander through the charming streets of historic Princeton, adorned in their festive best. Engage in delightful window shopping to admire the beautiful displays in each store, all while enjoying warm cups of cocoa. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with the accompaniment of strolling musicians, sightings of Santa, the illumination of the Menorah, and a splendidly decorated spruce at the heart of the Square, ensuring a memorable holiday visit. Conclude your day with “Skating on the Square,” where the entire family can gracefully glide on a synthetic ice rink beneath twinkling lights.
Palmer Square, Princeton, NJ
The North Pole Experience at Harbaugh Village
Now – December 31, select dates
Experience the magic of the North Pole in New Jersey at this Christmas village. Kids enjoy Santa’s workshop, crafting reindeer food, writing wish lists, and meeting Santa. The festive atmosphere includes carousel rides, ice skating, games, a sweet shop, fireside coziness, and a vendor village for gift shopping. Proceeds support GeorgesHouse.org, a nonprofit aiding families in need. The village features boardwalk games, exclusive photo ops, live entertainment, festive lights, and a heated lounge called the Evergreen. North Pole Experience Admission offers a meet-and-greet with Santa, a free photo, a reindeer food station, and hand-written crafts—a heartwarming way to celebrate with charity.
126 Bridgeton Pike, Mullica Hill, NJ
