The holiday season is a magical time of year. From Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, there are an endless amount of events and activities to boost those holiday spirits. Which is why Best of NJ is delighted to curate an annual list of the best holiday events in New Jersey. From turkey day celebrations to holiday light displays and New Year’s Eve fireworks, this guide has it all.
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Quick Click Guide: Select an NJ Region below the find the best holiday events near you.
North Jersey | Central Jersey | Jersey Shore | South Jersey
North Jersey
Down to Earth Living Holiday Showroom 2022
When: 11/05/2022 - 12/23/2022 at 9:00 AMWhere: 1040 NY-45, Pomona
Details: Each Christmas, Down to Earth Living transforms its 10,000-square foot showroom into a winter wonderland. This holiday showroom features life-like Santas, artificial pre-lit Christmas trees, and friendly life-size reindeer. It also boasts hundreds of exclusive ornaments and decorations, plus furry animals waiting to be discovered among the displays. The holiday showroom debuts with a Grand Reveal Party on Saturday, November 5. Everything in the showroom will be on sale for 20% off, and attendees save an additional 10% on all purchases.
Winter Walk at Taylor Park in Millburn 2022
When: 11/20/2022 - 01/15/2023 at 12:00 AMWhere: 78 Main Street, Millburn
Details: Taylor Park in Millburn is hosting a holiday light show from November 20, 2022 until January 15, 2023. This is a free, family-friendly event. Guests can walk around the park and enjoy the light displays. Each week, various pop up markets featuring local vendors will offer guests a variety of shopping options. Stay tuned to the Winter Walk in Millburn Facebook page for updates about participating businesses.
Skylands Stadium Christmas Light Show
When: 11/23/2022 - 12/30/2022 at 5:00 PMWhere: 94 Championship Place, Augusta
Details: Skylands Stadium hosts an annual Christmas light show and winter wonderland. Guests can visit and enjoy fun-filled activities, delicious treats, memory-making photo ops, and more. This includes roasting s’mores and sipping hot cocoa, plus riding the Ferris Wheel and Carousel. Other activities include an ice skating rink and Winter Beer Garden. The show itself is a mile-long course with over two million lights.
Brookhollow's Barnyard Christmas Light Show 2022
When: 11/25/2022 - 01/01/2023 at 4:00 PMWhere: 301 Rockaway Valley Rd, Boonton
Details: Brookhollow's Barnyard in Boonton is hosting a holiday light show from November 25, 2022 until January 1, 2023. This light show doubles as both a drive-thru and walk-thru experience. The walk-thru hours are from 4:00 pm until 6:30 pm. Likewise, the drive-thru hours are from 7:00 pm until 8:30 pm. The holiday light show costs $20 per car or $9.50 per person to walk through.
Brunch with Santa at Alstede Farms 2022
When: 12/03/2022 - 12/18/2022 at 10:00 AMWhere: 1 Alstede Farms Ln, Chester
Details: Alstede Farms is offering a special Brunch with Santa on select dates throughout December. Each weekend (Dec 3-4, 10-11, and 17-18) offers two different times to sit down with Santa. Tickets are required for this event, and must be purchased in advance. This is a buffet style brunch. Brunch with Santa at Alstede Farms includes breakfast options including eggs, French toast, sausage, potatoes, and more. Attendees will each get a 10% off merchandise coupon for the farm store. Visit the Alstede Farms website to purchase tickets or learn more.
Central Jersey
Martel's Christmas Wonderland 2022
When: 11/25/2022 - 01/01/2023 at 12:00 AMWhere: 21 Phillips Ave, Hamilton
Details: One of the longest-standing Christmas Holiday Light traditions in the area, the Martel Family is back for 2022. Most locals know the family from their appearance on ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight; where they won top honors for their first-class Christmas Wonderland display. In addition to a showcase that features a near blinding amount of lights and decorations, Santa also stops by.
Winter WonderLights Holiday Light Show Drive-Thru 2022
When: 11/25/2022 - 01/01/2023 at 5:30 PMWhere: 655 Cranbury Rd, East Brunswick
Details: The annual Winter WonderLights Holiday Light Show Drive-Thru returns to the Middlesex County Fairgrounds for 2022. This magical experience offers over 1.5 million lights animated to classic holiday music. Guests and families are invited to drive through 3 magical tunnels, giant holiday light displays, and decorated 20' trees. This year, the event lasts from November 25, 2022 - January 1, 2023. During this time, Winter WonderLights is open daily from 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm. To purchase tickets -- $30 per car or $125 for a season pass -- visit their website.
Christmas Lights at the Nietzer's 2022 Display
When: 11/27/2022 - 01/01/2023 at 5:00 PMWhere: 201 Hamilton Blvd, South Plainfield
Details: Since 2015, the Nietzer family has been putting on a one-of-a-kind Christmas light display. For 2022, the family is back with a display that is bigger and better than ever. For instance, the display will be active for a full five weeks this year. (From November 27, 2022 until January 1, 2023.) The lights are on from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm on weekdays and until 10:00 pm on weekends.
Crazy Christmas Lights in Old Bridge
When: 12/01/2022 - 01/01/2023 at 5:00 PMWhere: 55 Valley Vale Drive, Old Bridge
Details: The Mahoney household is hosting their annual holiday light show from December 1, 2022 until January 1, 2023. Guests can stop by and see the display from 5:00 pm until 10:00 pm each night. This is a free light show, but they host a Toys for Tots donation box. The family encourages all who are able to donate. Visit the Crazy Christmas Lights in Old Bridge Facebook page to learn more.
Jersey Shore
Christmas in Cape May Town-wide Celebration 2022
When: 11/18/2022 - 01/01/2023 at 12:00 AMWhere: 215 Light House Avenue, Cape May Point
Details: Cape May transforms into a Dickens village for the holidays, complete with carolers. There are numerous events throughout the town, with many businesses and locations participating. For instance, guests can attend an evening guided Yuletide House Tour or their Christmas Candlelight House Tour. The latter tours Cape May’s gaslit streets, plus over a dozen homes, inns, B&Bs, churches, and hotels.
Storybook Land Christmas Fantasy with Lights 2022
When: 11/19/2022 - 12/23/2022 at 5:00 PMWhere: 6415 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township
Details: Storybook Land's Christmas Fantasy with Lights will take place from November 19 until December 23, 2022. The annual tradition starts at 5:00 pm. Tickets are on sale now. In addition to this holiday season event, Storybook Land will have a Toys for Tots donation box available. Those who donate a toy between Dec 1 - 23 receive a free hot chocolate and popcorn for every toy donated.
Thanksgiving at Renault Winery & Resort 2022
When: 11/24/2022 at 12:00 PMWhere: 72 Bremen Ave, Egg Harbor City
Details: Renault Winery & Resort is serving a family-style Thanksgiving meal on Thursday, November 24, 2022 in the Champagne Ballroom. Tickets are on sale now, with separate tickets for adults and kids ages 3-10. Thanksgiving dinner consists of a starter, sides, a main course, and dessert. A cash bar will also be available. The meal begins with an artisan breadbasket, whipped butter, and farmhouse cranberry sauce. The main course is free range roasted turkey breast, boneless thighs, and rosemary gravy. Dinner includes salad, sides, and dessert.
Thanksgiving Dinner 2022 at Resorts Casino Hotel
When: 11/24/2022 at 12:00 PMWhere: 1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Details: Enjoy Thanksgiving at Resorts Casino Hotel in Atlantic City on Thursday, November 24, 2022. Three of the hotel's restaurants will each serve a different Thanksgiving menu. Breadsticks is serving a three-course Thanksgiving dinner for $35 per person from Noon until 8:00 pm. Meanwhile, Capriccio has a three-course dinner for $55 per person from 4:00 pm until 9:00 pm. Finally, Dougherty's four-course Thanksgiving dinner is $46 per person. The steakhouse will be open from 4:00 pm until 9:00 pm, and the raw bar from Noon until 9:00 pm.
Holiday Light Show in Historic Smithville 2022
When: 11/24/2022 - 01/06/2023 at 5:30 PMWhere: 615 E Moss Mill Rd, Absecon
Details: The Holiday Light Show in Historic Smithville takes place across Lake Meone and the Village Green. Visitors can stop by and enjoy a synchronized Christmas tree light show from November 24 until January 6. The light show goes on every evening from 5:30 pm until 8:30 pm. There is no cost to see this holiday light display. Visit the Historic Smithville website to learn more about this event.
Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Great Adventure
When: 11/25/2022 - 01/01/2023 at 12:00 PMWhere: 1 Six Flags Boulevard, Jackson
Details: The Six Flags Holiday in the Park event takes place predominantly on weekends throughout December. The event also runs daily the week between Christmas and New Year’s. Attendees can expect a variety of holiday shows, light displays, and a North Pole village. The North Pole offers holiday gifts, and Santa will be in the park as well. Don’t miss their fully-lit five-story Christmas tree.
The Grand Hotel Cape May New Year's Eve Celebration
When: 12/29/2022 - 12/31/2022 at 12:00 PMWhere: 1045 Beach Ave, Cape May
Details: Celebrate New Year's Eve at The Grand Hotel in Cape May. Guests have the option to arrive for either two nights of festivities, or enjoy a 3-day weekend stay. The fun starts on Thursday evening with a 3-course dinner at Hemingway's Restaurant. Saturday evening is "The Main Event" in the 5th floor penthouse ballroom. This celebration features a 5-hour premium open bar, hors d'oeuvres, and a surf and turf dinner. The party continues with dancing all night long and live music. Ring in the new year with a champagne toast at midnight.
Avalon New Year's Eve Fireworks 2022
When: 12/31/2022 at 12:00 AMWhere: 30th and the Beach, Avalon
Details: Avalon's second annual New Year's Eve celebration takes place on Saturday, December, 31 at Avalon Surfside Park. Attendees can look forward to a mix of music, crafts, hot chocolate, and of course, fireworks. This is a free event with entertainment and activities fit for the whole family. Visit the official Avalon town website to learn more about this New Year's Eve 2022 Fireworks event.
Sea Isle City New Year's Eve Fireworks 2022
When: 12/31/2022 at 8:00 PMWhere: JFK Blvd. Beach, Sea Isle City
Details: Enjoy a spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks display in Sea Isle City on Saturday, December 31, 2022. The fireworks start at 8:00 pm on JFK Boulevard Beach in Sea Isle. No other special activities are planned for this event besides the fireworks. However, local businesses in the area will be offering specials throughout the night. Visit the official Sea Isle City website to learn more about this event.
New Year's Eve Fireworks 2022 at Tropicana AC
When: 12/31/2022 at 9:00 PMWhere: 2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Details: Celebrate New Year's Eve in AC with Tropicana Atlantic City Boardwalk Resort & Casino. The Tropicana is hosting a fireworks display the evening of Saturday, December 31, 2022. These fireworks will be set off at 9:00 pm on the beach at Tropicana Casino Resort. There is no charge to view the fireworks. Visit the Caesars website to learn more about NYE events at the Tropicana Atlantic City.
Pier Village New Year's Eve Fireworks Spectacular 2022
When: 12/31/2022 at 9:00 PMWhere: 50 Chelsea Avenue, Long Branch
Details: Celebrate New Year's Eve at Pier Village on Saturday, December 31, 2022. The popular destination will be hosting both ice skating and a fireworks display. In particular, the fireworks show begins at 9:00 pm. Ice Skating Under the Stars on New Year's Eve requires a reservation and ticket purchase, which can be made online. Visit the Pier Village website to learn more about these NYE activities.
South Jersey
Drop Dead Sexy Thanksgiving Eve at The Grove
When: 11/23/2022 - 11/24/2022 at 9:00 PMWhere: 1022 Almond Rd, Pittsgrove
Details: The Grove at Centerton is hosting their Annual Thanksgiving Eve Party on Wednesday, November 23, 2022. The party starts at 9:00 pm and continues until 1:00 am. For 2022, the "biggest party of the year" features live music by the band Drop Dead Sexy. Of course, the evening will also include plenty of dancing and drink specials. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased directly from The Grove via their website. Drop Dead Sexy is a six-man band. Their creative songs, numerous stage props, and frequent costume changes keep the party going.
"Gourmet to Go" Thanksgiving Dinner by Bobby Chez
When: 11/24/2022 at 11:00 AMWhere: 1990 Rt 70 E or Marlton Pike E, Cherry Hill
Details: Bobby Chez in Cherry Hill is once again preparing their popular "Gourmet to go" Thanksgiving dinner for 2022. All dinners come with heating instructions, and feed approximately ten people for $289. Customers receive a 22-24 lb fresh roast turkey and 2 tins of chestnut & sausage stuffing. Every order also includes homemade gravy, and either herbed mashed potatoes or candied yams. In addition, the meal comes with 3 containers of vegetables of choice, cranberry sauce, and dinner rolls; plus cream of chicken soup, and either apple or pumpkin pie.
The Grove at Centerton Thanksgiving Dinner 2022
When: 11/24/2022 at 11:00 AMWhere: 1022 Almond Rd, Pittsgrove
Details: The Grove at Centerton is serving Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday, November 24, 2022. The rustic farmhouse in Pittsgrove will be open during the holiday from 11:00 am until 5:00 pm. This year, The Grove is offering a buffet dinner that costs $40 per adult and $20 for children (5-12). Children 4 and under are free. This Thanksgiving buffet requires a reservation, which can be made by calling the restaurant directly. The large buffet spread includes starters, entrees, traditional Thanksgiving sides, baked breads, homemade desserts, and more.
Christmas Memories at Johnson's Corner Farm
When: 11/25/2022 - 12/25/2022 at 12:00 AMWhere: 133 Church Rd, Medford
Details: Johnson’s Corner Farm offers a couple different holiday light experiences. The first is their Christmas Musical “Light Show” Hayride. This offers guests a trip around the farm surrounded by a light show set to Christmas music. The second experience is their famous Light Show on the Lake. As the name implies, thousands of twinkling lights light up the lake set to holiday music.
Creamy Acres Night of Lights Hayride 2022
When: 11/25/2022 - 12/24/2022 at 5:30 PMWhere: 448 Lincoln Mill Rd, Mullica Hill
Details: Creamy Acres farm in Mullica Hills is hosting a special holiday event for 2022. The Night of Lights Hayride takes place from November 25 until December 24. Gates open at 5:30 pm on select dates. The drive-through experience is $35 per vehicle online and $40 at the gate. Creamy Acres notes that all passengers must arrive in the same vehicle; there is no parking area to switch to another vehicle.
The North Pole Experience at Harbaugh Village 2022
When: 11/30/2022 - 12/30/2022 at 12:00 AMWhere: 126 Bridgeton Pike, Mullica Hill
Details: The North Pole Experience takes place from November 30 until December 30. This Christmas village costs $19.95 per person, but children under 2 are free. Harbaugh Village features rides, a visit to Santa's workshop, ice skating, and more. Visit the Harbaugh Village website to learn more about this holiday event. This special event benefits George's House, a 501(c)(3) that collects toys for children.
Deptford Dazzling Lights Drive-by Display 2022
When: 12/01/2022 - 01/01/2023 at 5:00 PMWhere: 105 Branchwood Drive, Deptford
Details: The annual Deptford Dazzling Lights event will take place on Branchwood Avenue from December 1, 2022 until January 1, 2023. This is a free "stay in your car" synchronized Christmas light show. This winter wonderland includes lights and displays that dance and move to holiday music. The music plays from the property itself, no radio tuning required. Visit the Deptford Dazzling Lights Facebook page for more.
New Year's Eve Fireworks at Battleship New Jersey 2022
When: 12/31/2022 at 4:00 PMWhere: 100 Clinton St, Camden
Details: Battleship New Jersey is hosting two fireworks shows for New Year's Eve on December 31, 2022. Besides the time difference, both events are identical in their presentation and accommodations. Likewise, tickets cost $10 for both shows. However, Battleship New Jersey members can attend the event for free. Visit the Battleship New Jersey website to learn more about this NYE event.
