NJIB’s Guide to 45+ New Jersey Events Thanksgiving Weekend 2024
It’s Thanksgiving Weekend! Aside from spending time with loved ones, there is plenty to do this weekend – from holiday markets and light shows to seasonal events and cozy fall gatherings, 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 the Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar on Black Friday, November 29th, and the Pawliday Market on December 1. Here is your guide to New Jersey Events from November 26 – December 1, 2024.
Looking for Light Shows and other Christmas/Holiday events? Be sure to check out our guide!
For more events throughout the year, check out our Event Guide. If you’d like 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.
Featured Events!
This weekend is Small Business Saturday! For a list of towns/cities that are celebrating with events be sure to click here.
Crystal Springs Holiday Spectacular
November 30, 3:30 pm – 8 pm
‘Tis the season! Gather with friends and family to get in the holiday spirit with an array of talented acts featuring singing sensation Backtrack Vocals, Nutcracker Ballerinas, Magician Anthony Salazar and more (details below). Enjoy a delicious buffet of your favorites plus open bar featuring beer, wine and festive holiday beverages.
The Canyon Ballroom at Minerals Hotel, Vernon, NJ
Cost: $55+
AWA Pawliday Winter Wonderland
December 1, 12 pm – 4 pm
The AWA Pawliday Winter Wonderland in Voorhees, NJ, is a festive event celebrating the joy of the holiday season with furry friends and animal lovers alike. Held by the Animal Welfare Association (AWA), this winter wonderland is filled with seasonal cheer, family-friendly activities, and holiday-themed fun. Guests can enjoy holiday treats, games, pet-friendly photo opportunities, and unique shopping options, with all proceeds supporting the AWA’s mission to provide compassionate care for animals in need. It’s the perfect way to spread holiday cheer while making a difference for local animals awaiting their forever homes.
509 Centennial Blvd, Voorhees, NJ
Cost: Free
Holiday Light Show at Historic Smithville
Begins November 28. Every Day until January 5, 2025.
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
New Providence Holiday Walk
November 29, 5 pm – 7 pm
This annual holiday family event features Santa’s grand arrival, followed by a lively performance by the New Providence HS marching band, and the grand finale fireworks display.
Downtown New Providence, NJ
Cost: Free
Downtown Candlelight Shopping
November 29
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
Downtown Rahway Holiday Markets
November 29 & 30
The Downtown Rahway Holiday Markets will be held on November 29 and 30, 2024. On November 29, visitors can enjoy the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at City Hall Plaza from 2:00 PM, featuring family-friendly activities like bounce houses, face painting, bumper cars, and a parade at 6:00 PM. Additionally, the Shop Rahway Pop-Up Market will be open at 1425 Main Street, offering unique, handcrafted gifts from local artists On November 30, the Cherry Street Market & Pop-Ups will take place from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, along with other local shops offering festive items. Also scheduled for the same day is a sensory-friendly Santa experience at the Rahway Recreation Center from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, designed for children with special needs.
Downtown Rahway, NJ
Cost: Free to attend
Polar Express
November 29 & 30
Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the classic story as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ for a magical hour and a half trip to meet Santa. Once on board, your car hosts will work their way through the coach and punch your golden ticket before hot chocolate and delicious cookies are served by dancing chefs. Passengers listen to the classic children’s book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg. Santa and his helpers greet passengers and each guest is given the first gift of Christmas – a silver sleigh bell. During the trip there is plenty of entertainment from our magical juggling chefs to our singing hobos! Each guest will take home a keepsake sleigh bell in addition to the wonderful memories made on this magical trip.
Lehigh Junction, 99 Elizabeth St., Phillipsburg, NJ
Cost: $38 Child and $48 Adult
Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar
November 29 – December 1
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.
** Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar in the Grand Arcade of Convention Hall – November 29 Black Friday Event 12 – 8 pm. November 30 & December 1, 12 – 5 pm
** Asbury Park Bazaar at The Asbury Hotel – December 1, 12-5 pm
Cost: Free to attend
GSWGA’s Holiday Wine Trail Weekend
November 29 – December 1
Beginning on Black Friday and continuing through the weekend, shoppers will have a few cozy and enjoyable stops to make before rushing home with their treasures. Winery tasting rooms from Sussex to Cape May will invite patrons to travel the New Jersey Wine Trail, with special tastings, entertainment, food pairings, discounts and sales. The Garden State Wine Growers Association’s annual Holiday Wine Trail Weekend is held at over 45 participating New Jersey wineries and vineyards statewide.
Participating Wineries and Vineyards
Cost: Varies Per Location
Dickens’ Days
November 29 – December 1
This annual family event will transform Clinton into a Victorian Village. Take a trip back in time to Victorian Clinton and celebrate the season with Clinton’s festive activities including horse and carriage rides, carolers, and more! There is no better place to experience the magic of the season than downtown Clinton during Dickens Days.
The Guild of Clinton, Clinton, NJ
Cost: Free to attend
Winter Village + Festival of Trees
November 29 – December 1
This Annual Holiday Festival features a beautiful display of decorated trees, wreaths and centerpieces that are available to win through our raffle. Experience over 40 artisan crafters, specialty foods and craft beer set inside the bucolic Red Mill Museum Village made even more special with holiday lights and decor throughout the grounds of the Red Mill Museum Village, amid the historic buildings.
The Red Mill, 56 Main St, Clinton, NJ
Cost: $5 – $12
The Best Time of the Year: Music and Memories of Christmas Special Event
November 29 – December 1
Join in for a festive holiday treat at this one-hour show, followed by more fun in the lobby with treats and a chance to take pictures with Santa. The words that come to mind during the Christmas season—joy, peace, home, and children—are beautifully captured in this celebration of the holidays. The choral revue, arranged by Keith Christopher, features some of the most beloved carols and Christmas songs, each section celebrating holiday traditions both old and new. The orchestration sparkles with Christmas spirit, bringing the magic of the season to life through song.
1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor NJ
Cost: Adults $22/Seniors, Students $20
American Repertory Ballet presents The Nutcracker
November 29 – December 1 (11/29 @ 2pm & 7pm, 11/30 @ 1pm & 6pm, 12/1 @ 1pm)
The Nutcracker, a beloved holiday tradition at McCarter Theatre, captivates both new and longtime patrons with its enchanting story, Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, and iconic choreography. This celebrated production features an exceptional cast of professional artists alongside over 100 children from the Princeton Ballet School, the official school of American Repertory Ballet.
McCarter Theatre – 91 University Pl, Princeton, NJ
Cost: $43 – $73
Annual Holiday Model Train Show
November 29 – December 1, 12 pm – 5 pm
The Garden State Model Railway Club will open its doors once again for the Annual Holiday Model Train Show! There will be a running steam and diesel trains of all kinds on a 1200 square foot HO scale layout, including Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends. There will also be a second railroad room open which features a new railroad currently under construction, a children’s railroad where kids can try their hand at running trains, and for sale items to complete your collection at home.
Garden State Model Railway Club, 575 High Mountain Road, North Haledon, NJ
Cost: $10, Children under 11 are free
Winter WonderLights Annual Holiday Light Show Drive Thru
Begins November 29. Every Day until January 5, 2025
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.
Collingswood Holiday Parade
November 30,10 am
The 2024 Collingswood Holiday Parade will return to Haddon Avenue on Saturday, November 30, starting at 10 a.m. Recognized as the Best Main Street Experience by South Jersey Magazine, the parade will feature vibrant seasonal entertainment, including marching bands, dancers, holiday characters, stilt-walking giants, floats, mummers, mascots, and live music. It will kick off at Zane Avenue and proceed to West Linden Avenue, passing through the heart of historic Collingswood.
Haddon Ave, Collingswood, NJ
Cost: Free
MCSPCA’s Doggy Paddle Polar Plunge
November 30, 10 am
The 2024 Doggy Paddle Polar Plunge will take place on Saturday, November 30th at 10 AM at D’Jais in Belmar, NJ. This exciting event benefits the Monmouth County SPCA (MCSPCA) and includes a variety of fun activities such as a costume contest for both people and pets, chances to win mega prizes, and exclusive merchandise for participants. There will also be food, music, and drinks, with complimentary breakfast items and two free cocktails for those 21 and over, or hot chocolate/soft drinks for younger participants.
D’Jai’s, Belmar, NJ
Cost: $30 – $65
Christmas at the Hangar
November 30, 10 am – 4 pm
Experience the holiday magic at Christmas at the Hangar, hosted at the NAS Wildwood Aviation Museum! Enjoy festive photo ops with Mr. & Mrs. Claus, accompanied by live music to set the seasonal spirit. Stroll through local vendors offering unique holiday gifts, sip on free hot chocolate and nibble on cookies (while supplies last), and save with 20% off in the museum gift shop. There’s fun for everyone with raffle baskets, craft tables for kids, food trucks, and a beer and wine garden. Don’t miss out on this festive event that’s packed with holiday cheer and fun surprises for all ages!
500 Forrestal Road, Cape May, NJ
Cost: Free
Bell Works Fresh Holiday Markets
November 30, 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
Mount Holly’s Walking of the Santas
November 30, 12 pm – 11 pm
Join the festive spirit at Mount Holly’s Walking of the Santas on Saturday, November 30th! Dress up as Santa, Mrs. Claus, or your favorite Christmas character and meet at the intersection of Garden Street and High Street at 8:00 PM. Participants will stroll down Main Street, caroling and spreading holiday cheer. The event doubles as a toy drive, collecting new, unwrapped toys, as well as hats, scarves, gloves, and coats for the homeless, with each donation earning a ticket for the Silent Auction. Enjoy music, great beer, and fun at the Village Idiot Brewery, all in support of making the holidays brighter for everyone!
High St, Mount Holly, NJ
Cost: Free to attend
Off the Wall Holiday Market
November 30
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
Grounds For Sculpture Artisan Holiday Market
November 30 and December 1, 10 am – 5 pm
Grounds For Sculpture is hosting an Artisan Holiday Market on November 30th and December 1st, from 10am- 5pm. This festive, family-friendly event will feature over 40 artisans offering one-of-a-kind pieces—think handmade jewelry, pottery, woodworking, original artwork, skincare, gourmet treats, and more. It’s an incredible opportunity for visitors to pick up unique, locally crafted gifts that bring a personal touch to the holiday season. Guests can roam through 42 acres of striking sculpture gardens and indoor galleries, enjoying the full magic of the season. The experience is capped off with seasonal sips and bites available onsite by Constellation Culinary Group. The holiday market also allows visitors to indulge in a cozy lunch or festive dinner at Rat’s Restaurant- the award-winning destination that’s been voted one of NJ’s Coziest Dining Experiences. Reservations are recommended for dining to ensure a spot.
Grounds for Sculpture, Hamilton, NJ
Cost: Tickets are $25/ person and get you entry for the day to both the market, and the legendary sculpture park.
Dickens Festival
November 30 and December 1, 1 pm – 7 pm
Riddlesbrood Touring Theatre Company returns to Historic Smithville with the Spirit of Christmas, presenting a two-day outdoor “Dickens Fest” featuring an original musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol. This rendition of Charles Dickens’ classic tale follows Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey from greed to redemption, bringing audiences along as he encounters the Ghosts of Christmas and transforms into a joyful Father Christmas.
615 East Moss Mill Rd. Smithville, NJ
Cost: Free
Montclair Flea Holiday Market
November 30 and December 1
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
Holland Ridge Farms U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland
November 30 & December 1, 5 pm – 10 pm
This holiday season, join us for a light show that promises to enchant visitors of all ages. Our 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, and makers market. You can also buy bunches of fresh-cut tulips and help us plant bulbs for our 2025 season! Start your new holiday tradition at Holland Ridge Farms.
108 Rues Road, Cream Ridge, NJ
Cost: Starting at $15 per person
Newark Winter Village
Begins November 30
The Newark Winter Village, located at Mulberry Commons Park, returns for its fourth year this winter. Open through January 7, 2025, it offers festive activities such as an ice-skating rink, on-ice go-karting, and carnival games. Visitors can also enjoy food from local vendors and rent a heated igloo for a cozy experience. The Winter Village is open Wednesday to Friday from 3-8 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 12-8 pm. Admission is free, but reservations are required for certain activities like ice skating, go-karting, and igloo rentals. Tickets for ice skating are $15 for adults and $10 for children, while go-karting costs $20 per person, and igloo rentals are $50 for an hour. This festive destination is just outside the Prudential Center, making it a perfect spot for holiday fun.
Prudential Center, Newark, NJ
Cost: Free to attend
Bergenfield High School Holiday Flea Market & Gift Fair
December 1, 9 am – 4 pm
This holiday event brings in vendors that offer gift items, crafts, and stocking stuffers. There will be tables displaying an array of quality merchandise such as handbags, sports collectibles, jewelry for all ages, clothing, gift items, video games, vintage jewelry, gloves & scarves, toys, perfumes, antiques & collectibles, garage/tag sale items all at bargain prices.
80 South Prospect Ave, Bergenfield, NJ
Cost: Free
The Monmouth Moms’ Holiday Fair
December 1, 11 am – 3 pm
The Monmouth Moms’ Holiday Fair is returning to Bell Works in Holmdel, NJ, on Sunday, December 1, 2024, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, bringing holiday cheer to families across Monmouth County. The event offers a range of festive activities, including photos with Santa, a holiday scavenger hunt, exciting giveaways, character visits, and special performances. Families can enjoy storytime, a holiday activity station, face painting, and a balloon artist. Shoppers will find a wide selection of holiday vendors, local food, a cocktail bar, and more, with over 80 vendors and live music creating a vibrant atmosphere. The event also supports Friends of JJ, with toy and gift card donations collected on-site.
Bell Works, Holmdel, NJ
Cost: Free. Registration is required.
Asbury Fresh Porta Holiday Pop Up Markets
December 1, 12 pm – 4 pm
A series of shopping events featuring a curated collection of 25 local handmade artists & makers coming together for a holiday celebration.
Porta Asbury Park 911 Kingsley Street Asbury Park, NJ
Cost: Free
