The latest update to The Best Holiday Shows For NJ Families is written by Lindsay Podolak.
The holiday season just isn’t complete without a trip to the theater. New Jersey is home to some outstanding playhouses, many of which offer festive, holiday shows sure to delight the entire family. From classics like A Christmas Carol and The Nutcracker to original musical productions, there are plenty of great productions hitting NJ stages this winter.
With that in mind, we recommend taking in the sights and sounds of Christmas by snagging tickets to one of the following great holiday shows.
Quick Click Guide: Select an NJ Region below to find a Holiday Show near you.
| North Jersey | Central Jersey | Jersey Shore | South Jersey |
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Featured Holiday Show 2019
Celtic Woman: The Best of Christmas Tour
Where: Tropicana Atlantic City, 2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
When: November 29 at 8:00 pm (doors open at 7:00 pm)
Details: Multi-platinum international music sensation, Celtic Woman, will celebrate the holiday season with its eighth annual “Symphony Tour” at Tropicana Atlantic City. During this live musical experience, Celtic Woman performs timeless holiday songs with a full symphony orchestra. This unique event features music from the all-female ensemble’s holiday releases; including the platinum-selling A Christmas Celebration and Deck The Halls. Tickets range from $63.00 to $103.00 (plus tax and fees). Visit the Tropicana website for tickets.
More info: Visit the Tropicana website.
The Best Holiday Shows for NJ Families
North Jersey
Elf The Musical Jr.
Where: The Newton Theatre, 234 Spring Street, Newton
When: December 12 at 7:00 pm and December 15 at 3:00 pm
Price: $20
Details: The film comedy is reimagined on stage in this whimsical version of Elf. Buddy the Elf heads to New York City to meet his father and help his family learn the true meaning of the Christmas spirit.
Why I like it: This version of Elf is a musical, so expect lots of lively tunes!
More info: Visit the website or give them a call.
Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella
Where: Paper Mill Playhouse, 22 Brookside Drive, Millburn
When: November 20 – December 29 at various times
Price: $32 – $132
Details: This Tony-nominated Broadway adaptation of the classic tale features enchanting songs, romance, and magical onstage transformations. All ages will enjoy the Paper Mill Playhouse’s holiday season show.
Why I like it: A few new characters and twists make this different than the traditional versions of Cinderella you may have seen.
More info: Visit the website or give them a call.
Central Jersey
A Christmas Carol
Where: McCarter Theatre Center, 91 University Place, Princeton
When: December 10 – 29 at various times
Price: $25 – $68
Details: The McCarter Theatre’s production of A Christmas Carol takes audiences on a magical journey; as they follow Ebenezer Scrooge through Christmas past, present, and future. This exciting annual production brings out the joy and spirit of the holiday season. Special events such as Wreath Workshops, Fezziwig Parties, and a Meet and Greet with Scrooge take place before select performances; so be sure to check the calendar before purchasing tickets.
Why I like it: This play runs every holiday season, so why not make it a family tradition to attend?
More info: Visit the website or give them a call.
Nutcracker
Where: The State Theater, 15 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick
When: December 13 – 15 at various times
Price: $25 – $65
Details: The American Repertory Ballet returns to perform the holiday classic Nutcracker. Beautiful sets, magnificent music from Tchaikovsky, and amazing choreography will leave you breathless.
Why I like it: Kids will love the fantastical scenes of Clara’s dreams coming to life.
More Info: Visit the website or give them a call.
Jersey Shore
A Christmas Carol
Where: Algonquin Arts Theatre, 60 Abe Vorhees Drive, Manasquan
When: December 18 at 10:00 am and 11:45 am
Price: $12
Details: The classic Dickens’ tale comes to life in this fun, musical performance. The show is only an hour long (no intermission) and open for one day only, so don’t miss it.
Why I like it: This play is part of the theater’s Education Series; which means school groups of Grade 3 and above are welcome to attend.
More info: Visit the website or give them a call.
A Congress Hall Christmas
Where: Congress Hall, 200 Congress Place, Cape May
When: November 29 – December 39 at various times
Price: $15-$25
Details: This original play is a heartwarming tale about rekindling the holiday spirit. Santa and Mrs. Claus head to their favorite vacation spot for some relaxation. But while here they meet the ghosts that live in Congress Hall.
Why I like it: Cape May references and jokes will be sure to entertain the local crowd.
More info: Visit the website or give them a call.
‘Tis the Season
Where: Surflight Theatre, 201 Engleside Ave, Beach Haven
When: December 5 – 15 at various times
Price: $29 – $39
Details: The Surflight Theatre, located on Long Beach Island, continues its holiday tradition with a show all can enjoy. This year’s offering is an uplifting musical with glamour, glitz, and goodwill.
Why I like it: Groups of 15 or more get a group discount if you call ahead to reserve seats.
More info: Visit the website or give them a call.
South Jersey
Holiday Concert and Family Festival
Where: Mainstage Center for the Arts, 27 South Blackhorse Pike, Blackwood
When: December 21 at 7:00 pm and December 22 at 2:00 pm
Price: $13-$16
Details: This is not just a show, it’s a fun, holiday experience complete with hot chocolate and a visit from Santa Claus. On stage you will be treated to performances from professional choirs and dance companies.
Why I like it: For a small extra fee, attendees can participate in an ornament-making station before or after the show.
More info: Visit the website or give them a call.
Miracle on 34th Street The Musical
Where: Broadway Theatre of Pitman, 43 South Broadway, Pitman
When: December 6 – December 22 at various times
Price: $28
Details: The whole family will enjoy the story of young Susan’s journey to find the real Santa Claus. Funny and heartwarming, this play includes such classical holiday songs as “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” that everyone can sing along to.
Why I like it: Frequent theatergoers should think about purchasing a Mainstage Season Subscription. This gets you a huge discount on all six Broadway Theatre productions; as well as a free ticket to Miracle on 34th Street The Musical!
More info: Visit the website or give them a call.
Here (Top) Photo: © JenkoAtaman / Adobe StockPhoto Credits
Other Photos (in Order) Courtesy:
Paper Mill Playhouse / Facebook
State Theatre / Website
Algonquin Arts / Website
Broadway Theatre of Pitman / Facebook
