20+ Christmas Things to Do in New Jersey That Feel Magical

If the holiday season always seems to sneak up on you… same.

Between holiday concerts, cookie swaps, and the sudden pressure to create “core memories,” it’s easy to forget that the holiday season can actually be fun.

That’s why we rounded up the Best Christmas things to do in New Jersey…

Drive-thru winter wonderlands, walk-thru light displays at the zoo, Santa train rides and festive small-town community celebrations, all on one easy TLJ Holiday MAP.

Because sometimes getting out of the house and a good cup of hot cocoa are all it takes to reset the holiday magic.

Walk-Through Light Displays and Holiday Festivals in New Jersey

If you’d rather bundle up and wander through the sparkle than drive past it, these outdoor New Jersey light shows and holiday festivals will make you feel like you’ve stepped inside a real life snow globe.

For families who love the energy of NYC, our list of things to do in Manhattan in December will help you plan a festive day trip that’s worth the bridge toll.

Storybook Land Christmas Fantasy

Egg Harbor Township, NJ

When the sun sets at Storybook Land, Santa Claus himself flips the magical switch… and suddenly the entire amusement park is glowing with holiday lights.

Every ride, tree, and fairytale cottage lights up in color while snow machines swirl through the air.

It’s pure old-fashioned holiday cheer, complete with Christmas music and a nightly visit from the big guy himself.

Dates: November 23 – December 30, 2025
Price: $38.99 per person (ages 2 and up)
TLJ Tip: Get there by 4:30 pm to see Santa light the park… it’s the moment everyone’s waiting for, and the perfect time for family photos before the crowds roll in.
More info: storybookland.com

After all the holiday festivities, escape a little farther north with our list of New England family getaways that make winter feel storybook perfect.

Let It Glow! A Holiday Lantern Spectacular

Paramus, NJ

After dark, the Bergen County Zoo turns into a glowing lantern winter wonderland.

Giant illuminated animals, glowing flowers, and colorful archways light up the pathways, creating a winter stroll that feels part art exhibit, part holiday festival.

Around every turn you’ll find a new surprise… from tigers and sea turtles to glowing forests straight out of a dream.

Dates: November 6, 2025 – January 11, 2026, Thursday & Sunday 4-8 pm, Friday & Saturday 4-9 pm
Price: Adults $20, Children $10 (3-17)
TLJ Tip: Go between Christmas and the New Year for fewer crowds and discounted tickets.

More info: friendsofbergencountyzoosociety.org

Looking for a quieter kind of adventure after all the holidays where you can connect with animals?

These scenic horseback riding family vacations will make winter feel magical in a different way.

The Village at Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm

Manalapan, NJ

What started as a Christmas tree farm now feels like a full-blown outdoor Christmas village complete with holiday characters and a winter wonderland you won’t believe.

Take a hayride to a glowing trail that winds through candy-cane tunnels, igloos, and a life-size gingerbread house before ending at Santa’s workshop and a cozy market with cocoa and cookies.

It’s a walk-through outdoor holiday experience that keeps families coming back each Christmas season.

Dates: November 8 – December 30, 2025, Wednesday-Sunday 5-9 pm
Price: $24-$26
TLJ Tip: Bundle up and book ahead… the whole experience is outdoors, and popular times sell out in December.
More info: anneellenfarms.com

Historic Smithville Holiday Light Show

Smithville, NJ

Historic Smithville looks like a storybook village any time of year, but once the holidays hit, the Lake Meone steals the show.

More than 120 floating Christmas trees sparkle across the water, perfectly mirrored in the reflection as holiday music plays nearby.

Shops stay open late, carolers stroll by, and it all feels like stepping into an old-fashioned Christmas movie.

Dates: November 27, 2025 – January 6, 2026, 5:30-8:30 pm nightly
Price: Free
TLJ Tip: Start on the bridge for the best view of the lake, then grab hot cocoa or hit the carousel before heading out… the lights dance to new songs every few minutes.

More info: historicsmithvillenj.com

If your December calendar is already filling up, you’ll want to peek at our list of New Year’s Eve with Kids so the fun doesn’t stop on the 26th.

Drive-Thru Holiday Light Displays in New Jersey

For the evenings when you’d rather stay warm in the car with hot chocolate in hand, these New Jersey drive-thru light shows deliver miles of holiday sparkle… no snow boots required.

After the light shows and holiday events, unwind somewhere steamy with one of these dreamy hotels with outdoor pools in winter.

Skylands Stadium Light Show & Christmas Village

Augusta, NJ

In Sussex County, Skylands Stadium goes big with their winter wonderland drive-thru experience.

Over two million lights line the mile-long drive, glowing tunnels pulse to music, and every turn brings a new themed scene.

After your drive-thru holiday lights experience, park your car and walk around the Skylands Stadium Christmas Village.

Fire pits to warm up around, a holiday market, and photos with Santa Claus.

Dates: November 22, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Price: $29 per carload; VIP upgrades available
TLJ Tip: Arrive just before sunset to see the lights flicker on, then plan extra time for cocoa and s’mores by the fire.
More info: skylandsstadium.com

Winter WonderLights

East Brunswick, NJ

New Jersey’s largest animated holiday light show drive thru transforms the Middlesex County Fairgrounds into a glowing trail of color, with tunnels, toy soldiers, and animated displays synced to your favorite holiday tunes.

Each section of Winter Wonderlights has its own holiday theme.

From candy-cane forests to sparkling snowflake arches, the whole family will love finding out what’s around each corner.

Dates: November 21 – December 28, 2025, Opens daily at 5:30 pm
Price: Around $35-$45 per car, depending on date
TLJ Tip: Go early in the season for lighter traffic and better photos…
More info: winterwonderlightshows.com

For a splashy twist on your next winter getaway, check out these rentals with indoor pools that turn any season into pool season.

Night of Lights at Creamy Acres Farm

Mullica Hill, NJ

Creamy Acres Farm turns its fields into a mile-and-a-half trail of glowing tunnels, animated snowmen, and glittering trees that stretch across the open farmland.

The drive ends at a charming Christmas Village where your family can hop out for hot cocoa, fire pits, and photo ops with Santa Claus under strings of lights.

Dates: November 23 – December 30, 2025
Price: Around $35 per vehicle
TLJ Tip: Roll the windows down when you first enter the tunnels… you’ll hear the synchronized music better and feel more “in” the experience.
More info: creamyacres.com

Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms

Hillsdale, NJ

Set in Bergen County’s famous orchards, Orchard of Lights is a drive-thru holiday light show that winds through tunnels of twinkling lights, glowing snowmen, and reindeer scenes set to music on 107.9FM

After the 20-25 minute drive, step out of the car for some warm donuts, hot cocoa, and a visit with Santa Claus inside the farm market.

Dates: November 22 – December 30, 2025 (select nights, 5-9 pm)
Price: $35 per car
TLJ Tip: Book early and go midweek for shorter waits… and don’t skip the cider donuts before heading home.
More info: orchardoflights.com

Diggerland Holiday Light Show

West Berlin, NJ

Construction goes Christmas at Diggerland, where excavators, cranes, and dump trucks glow with thousands of holiday lights.

The route you drive loops through tunnels, trees, and animated displays synced to your favorite holiday tunes.

Kids love spotting their favorite construction vehicles dressed up for the holidays… and the radio soundtrack keeps everyone singing along.

Dates: November 14, 2025 – January 11, 2026 (5:30-9:30 pm most nights)
Price: Tickets from $37 per vehicle
TLJ Tip: Set your radio to the light-show channel before entering the first loop

More info: diggerlandusa.com

The Tinsel Turnpike

Sicklerville, NJ

New to South Jersey, The Tinsel Turnpike is a mile-long drive-thru light show packed with tunnels of lights, glowing holiday billboards, and roadside scenes that lean into New Jersey charm.

You’ll slowly cruise through the holiday displays from the warmth of your car.

It’s perfect for a low-effort winter outing with big “wow” moments.

Dates: November, 28, – January 4, 2026 (5:30-9:30 pm)
Price: $44.99/per car
TLJ Tip: Anything over an 8 passenger vehicle pays an additional $10

More info: visitglow.com

Santa Trains & Polar Express Rides in New Jersey

If your kids love trains, the holiday season in New Jersey delivers.

These Santa train rides blend vintage charm, twinkling lights, and plenty of North Pole magic…

Its just the right mix of nostalgia and excitement for the whole family.

Once Santa has left town, hit the slopes at one of New Jersey’s best ski mountains in NJ for a fresh dose of winter fun.

The Polar Express Train Ride

Whippany, NJ

Departing from the Whippany Railway Station at 1 Railroad Plaza, this officially licensed Polar Express ride turns a classic rail line into a rolling holiday storybook.

Families board vintage train cars, sip hot chocolate, and follow along as the beloved tale unfolds… complete with dancing chefs, storytime, and a visit from Santa Claus himself.

Dates: November 1 – December 30, 2025
Price: $57-$105 per person, depending on class
TLJ Tip: The Polar Express experience is a total of 2 hours with a 1 hour train ride. Seats will be assigned.

More info: polarexpress.com

The Santa Express at Black River & Western Railroad

Flemington, NJ

This charming Santa train ride boards at the historic Flemington Station and winds through the quiet Hunterdon County countryside.

Santa and Mrs. Claus make their way through the cars greeting each family, with carol sing-alongs, holiday treats, and plenty of photo ops along the hour long route.

Dates: November 1 – December 28, 2025
Price: $39.99-$42.99/coach seating, $99/premium coach table for two, $199/premium coach table for four.
TLJ Tip: Arrive about 30 minutes early to explore the model train display inside the station… there are no restrooms at the station or onboard.

More info: blackriverrailroad.com

DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express

Hammonton, NJ

Take a train ride around the DiDonato Family Fun Center at this beloved outdoor holiday experience.

Pass through thousands of lights, cheerful displays, and a full walk-through Christmas village at the end.

Kids can visit Santa and Mrs. Claus in their workshops (free photos included), sip hot cocoa, and pick up a cookie and small gift before heading inside for a free game of bowling or time in the arcade.

It’s big, busy, and over-the-top… in the best way.

Dates: November 15 – December 23, 2025 (select nights)
Price: $22.95-$26.95/per person
TLJ Tip: Bring a stroller for tired legs… the walk from the parking lot to Santa’s Workshop feels longer after bedtime. Check out their sensory-friendly nights with dimmed lights and quieter music.

More info: didonatosmagicalholidayexpress.com

The Santa Express on Cape May Seashore Lines

Cape May, NJ

The Cape May Seashore Santa Express is an 85-minute round-trip train ride where you’ll ride in vintage coaches while Santa and his elves make their way through the cars for photos and treats.

You can board at Tuckahoe Train Station or Richland Village Station. Both routes offer the same festive ride filled with music, lights, and classic holiday charm.

Expect a cozy, nostalgic experience that feels like stepping into a Hallmark Christmas Movie.

Tickets do sell out early, especially for the mid-December weekends.

Dates: Richland Station- November 30, December 7, 14, 21.

Tuckahoe Station- November 29, December 6, 13, 20, 23

Price: From $34.95 – $70.95
TLJ Tip: Tickets do sell out early, especially for the mid-December weekends.

More info: seashorelines.org

Holiday Lights Trolley Rides

Cape May, NJ

Cape May, NJ already nails the seaside charm, but seeing it decked out for the holidays takes it to another level.

This holiday trolley ride winds past historic gingerbread-style houses glowing with lights while a guide shares fun stories and local holiday lore.

It’s a cozy, unique, sit-back-and-enjoy kind of experience.

Dates: November 21 – December 28, 2025 (select evenings)
Price: $20/adults, $15/kids (3-12)
TLJ Tip: The holiday trolley tour begins and ends at the Ocean St. trolley stop.

More info: capemaymac.org

Holiday Markets & Festivals in New Jersey

From German-style holiday markets filled with handmade gifts to small-town streets that feel like movie sets.

These are the holiday events in New Jersey that make it easy to shop, snack, and soak in the season.

German Christmas Market of New Jersey

Augusta, NJ

Held at the Sussex County Fairgrounds, the German Christmas Market of New Jersey blends Bavarian market charm with Jersey holiday spirit.

Wooden huts brim with ornaments, toys, and handcrafted gifts, while carolers, food stalls, and local vendors make it feel like a European street fair.

Dates: December 5-7, 2025, Friday & Saturday 10-8 pm, Sunday 10-5 pm
Price: $8/adults before December 4th, $10 after. Free for kids under 12
TLJ Tip: Bring cash for vendors and arrive hungry, the bratwurst and mulled wine are always fan favorites, and lines move quicker earlier in the day.

More info: germanchristmasmarketnj.org

Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar

Asbury Park, NJ

The Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar is located inside the Convention Hall on the boardwalk.

This annual indoor holiday market mixes local makers, vintage goods, and beach-town holiday cheer.

Expect twinkling lights, live music, and photos with Santa Claus and holiday characters in between browsing artisan booths and grabbing snacks.

Dates: Friday-Sunday from November 28 – December 21, 2025
Price: Free admission
TLJ Tip: Make a full day of your Jersey shore visit… shop, stroll, and grab dinner with ocean views before heading home.

More info: asburyparkbazaar.com

Winter Village at the Red Mill Museum

Clinton, NJ

The Red Mill’s 200-year-old setting makes the Winter Village holiday market feel like you’ve stepped into a vintage Christmas card.

More than 40 vendors set up along the Mill’s pathways, selling crafts, treats, and gifts, all surrounded by twinkling lights and a glowing covered bridge.

Dates: November 28-30 & December 6-7, 2025
Price: $10/adults, Free for children 12 and under
TLJ Tip: After visiting the Winter Village, step back into the Victorian era by boarding a horse-drawn carriage, and touring the historic town.

More info: theredmill.org

Dickens Festival on Main Street

Clinton, NJ

On the first Saturday each December, downtown Medford, NJ goes all in on the Christmas spirit.

The Medford Dickens Festival fills Main Street with live music, fire pits, a holiday parade, costumed carolers, food trucks, and street performers.

The shops stay open late, vendors line the sidewalks, and the whole town feels like you’ve stepped into the pages of A Christmas Carol.

Dates: Saturday, December 6, 2025, 4-7 pm
Price: Free admission
TLJ Tip: Park at Freedom Park or Sharps Run Plaza and take the free shuttle… you’ll skip the traffic and land right in the middle of the action.

More info: mainstreetmedford.com