10 Best Things to Do in New Jersey During Christmas

New Jersey comes alive during the holiday season with a blend of festive charm, winter wonderland vibes, and classic Christmas traditions. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or visiting for the first time, there’s something truly magical about experiencing Christmas in the Garden State. From sparkling light displays to cozy Christmas markets, New Jersey offers an array of activities that capture the essence of the holiday spirit.

For me, Christmas in New Jersey is a time to reconnect with family, indulge in festive treats, and immerse myself in the beauty of the season. The state’s diverse attractions provide endless opportunities for both relaxation and adventure, making it a perfect destination for creating lasting memories.

Whether you’re taking a scenic train ride, enjoying a Christmas parade, or simply strolling through charming towns adorned in twinkling lights, New Jersey has the experience to suit every holiday wish. In this guide, I’ll share 10 unforgettable things to experience in New Jersey during Christmas, each offering a unique way to celebrate the season and make the most of this magical time of year.

1. Visit the Christmas Light Displays in Jackson’s Six Flags Great Adventure

I remember the first time I visited Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson during Christmas. It was like stepping into a winter wonderland. Every year, Six Flags transforms into a magical light display with over a million dazzling lights, making it one of the top places to visit in New Jersey during the holiday season. Walking through the park, surrounded by millions of lights in every color imaginable, gives you that nostalgic holiday feeling. There are also festive shows, an ice skating rink, and plenty of seasonal treats to enjoy. It’s an experience that fills me with holiday cheer every single year.

Highlights:

• Over a million lights covering the entire park.
• Holiday-themed shows and parades with festive music.
• An ice skating rink where you can glide under the twinkling lights.
• Seasonal treats like hot cocoa, cookies, and holiday-themed snacks.

Six Flags doesn’t just focus on the lights. The park’s holiday shows, featuring everything from dancing to live music, create the perfect festive atmosphere. I always take time to stop and watch the performances because they bring the holiday spirit to life.

2. Explore the Christmas Village in Philadelphia

While it’s just across the river, the Christmas Village in Philadelphia feels like stepping into a holiday scene straight out of Europe. This European-style Christmas market is filled with wooden stalls selling everything from unique handmade gifts to delicious holiday treats. I love browsing through the stalls, especially for quirky, one-of-a-kind gifts. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the aroma of bratwurst and freshly baked pretzels fills the air. It’s the perfect place for anyone looking to experience a European holiday market without leaving the U.S.

What to Expect:

• Handmade gifts like ornaments, jewelry, and crafts.
• Authentic German food including bratwurst, pretzels, and mulled wine.
• Live performances by local musicians and carolers, enhancing the festive vibe.
• Ice skating rink for added holiday fun and entertainment.

One of my favorite parts of the Christmas Village is the food. There’s nothing better than enjoying a warm bratwurst and a cup of mulled wine while strolling through the beautifully decorated market. Plus, the ice skating rink is always a hit for families looking to add a bit of outdoor fun to their day.

3. Take a Scenic Winter Train Ride on the New Jersey Transit Polar Express

For me, one of the most magical ways to spend Christmas in New Jersey is aboard the New Jersey Transit Polar Express. This train ride brings the classic holiday story to life with carolers, a visit from Santa, and plenty of holiday treats. You’re immediately transported into a festive wonderland when you step onto the train. The train rides through scenic winter landscapes, and I always love seeing the twinkling lights along the way. It’s an experience that fills me with childlike wonder and excitement, making it perfect for families.

Fun Features:

• A special visit from Santa Claus, who interacts with everyone on board.
• Holiday music and carolsare  sung by entertainers during the ride.
• Hot cocoa and cookies are served to guests, just like in the story.
• Scenic winter views as the train travels through beautiful New Jersey towns.

There’s something about sipping hot cocoa on the Polar Express while listening to Christmas carols that instantly makes me feel warm and nostalgic. The whole experience is magical, and I highly recommend it for families with kids or even just for those who love to indulge in the Christmas spirit.

4. Stroll Through the Morristown Green Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Morristown has one of the best community Christmas events in the state. The Morristown Green Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is an annual tradition that brings the whole town together. I love attending this event because it’s filled with joy, music, and excitement. The highlight is, of course, the lighting of the beautiful Christmas tree, but there’s also a lively program of performances by local choirs and carolers. I always feel a sense of warmth and togetherness at this event, and the excitement in the air is palpable.

Don’t Miss:

• The beautiful tree lighting marks the start of the holiday season in Morristown.
• Carols sung by local choirs and holiday performances.
• A visit from Santa Claus, who makes an appearance to greet the kids.
• Hot cocoa stands serving up delicious drinks to warm you up.

The best part about the Morristown tree lighting is how the whole community comes together to celebrate. Everyone, from families to young adults, gathers in the town square to experience the joy of the holiday season. It’s an event that never fails to fill me with Christmas cheer.

5. Experience the Holiday Fun at the Cape May Christmas Festival

Cape May, known for its Victorian charm, becomes a festive holiday wonderland each Christmas. I visit the Cape May Christmas Festival every year because the whole town seems to come alive with holiday spirit. The Victorian homes along the streets are all decked out in lights, and the local shops offer wonderful seasonal treats and unique gifts. One of my favorite traditions here is attending the Christmas Parade, a joyful celebration featuring floats, marching bands, and plenty of Christmas cheer.

Highlights:

• The Christmas Parade, with festive floats and marching bands.
• Victorian-style homes are beautifully decorated for the holidays.
• Boutiques and shops offer unique holiday gifts and treats.
• Christmas concerts that fill the town with festive music.

Cape May’s charm shines even more during Christmas, and I always look forward to walking down the historic streets, taking in the sights, and picking out special holiday gifts from the local shops. It’s a great place to slow down and embrace the quieter, cozy side of the season.

6. Visit the Christmas Market at Princeton University

Princeton is another New Jersey town that goes all-out during Christmas. The Princeton Christmas Market is one of my favorite spots to shop for unique and thoughtful gifts. This market has a distinctly European vibe, and I love that it’s set against the backdrop of Princeton University’s beautiful campus. The stalls sell everything from handmade jewelry to festive ornaments, and I always leave with something special. The campus itself is adorned with lights and wreaths, making it even more enchanting during the holiday season.

What to Expect:

• Handmade crafts from local artisans, perfect for one-of-a-kind gifts.
• Delicious seasonal treats, like gingerbread cookies and mulled cider.
• The beautifully decorated campus of Princeton University is even more magical with the holiday lights.
• Festive performances, including carolers singing holiday classics.

Walking around the market and exploring the quaint streets of Princeton is a wonderful way to soak in the holiday atmosphere. Something about the combination of beautiful architecture, festive shopping, and delicious food makes it feel like Christmas magic is in the air.

7. Attend the Dickens Village at Red Bank

One of the most unique Christmas events I’ve experienced in New Jersey is the Dickens Village at Red Bank. It’s a fantastic event that brings Charles Dickens’s beloved A Christmas Carol to life. I love the Victorian-style decorations and the costumed performers who act out scenes from the famous story. The event is so immersive that I feel like I’m walking through a Christmas tale with every step I take. The horse-drawn carriage rides are a must-do, adding a little extra old-fashioned charm to the experience.

Features:

• Live performances of “A Christmas Carol,” with actors in period costumes.
• Horse-drawn carriage rides through the decorated streets of Red Bank.
• Unique holiday shopping in the charming local stores.
• Victorian-style decorations that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Dickens novel.

If you’re a fan of classic holiday stories, this event is a must. It’s not just a visual experience; it’s a full sensory dive into the past, with carolers singing, actors performing, and the scent of fresh pine filling the air.

8. Skate at the Ice Rink in Rockefeller Center

While it’s technically in New York City, the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink is just a short drive from New Jersey, which I always look forward to during Christmas. Skating on the iconic rink beneath the world-famous Christmas tree is an experience that’s truly unmatched. Even if you’re not the best skater, the experience of being there surrounded by the beautiful holiday decorations and the massive tree is enough to make you feel like you’re in a holiday movie.

Why It’s Special:

• The iconic ice skating rink where you can skate with the Christmas tree in the background.
• The giant Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is one of the most famous trees in the world.
• Beautiful holiday lights and decorations all around the area.
• Just a short drive from New Jersey, making it easy to add to your holiday plans.

There’s no place quite like Rockefeller Center during the holidays. It’s bustling, full of energy, and radiates Christmas cheer like no other place I know.

9. Visit the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden

Though it’s a bit outside New Jersey, the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden is definitely worth the trip. I’ve been there several times, and it never fails to amaze me. The botanical garden’s model trains wind through replicas of iconic New York landmarks, all crafted from natural materials like bark, leaves, and twigs. The intricate details are mind-blowing, and the entire exhibit is surrounded by stunning holiday decorations. It’s a peaceful, awe-inspiring experience that’s perfect for families and train enthusiasts.

Why I Love It:

• Model trains winding through beautiful miniature New York landmarks.
• The incredible natural materials used to create the buildings and scenery.
• The festive atmosphere, with the garden decorated in holiday splendor.
• Interactive activities for kids, making it fun for the whole family.

If you have a chance to visit the Holiday Train Show, you will be in awe of the holiday creativity on display.

10. Celebrate the Holidays at Liberty Science Center

For those looking to add a little science and fun to their holiday celebrations, the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City offers special holiday-themed exhibits and activities. I love taking the kids here during Christmas because there are so many interactive exhibits. One of the best parts is the holiday light display, which adds a scientific twist to traditional holiday cheer. Plus, they often have special hands-on activities for families, making it a great spot for those looking to entertain the kids.

Must-See:

• Holiday light displays with a science twist.
• Hands-on activities for kids that focus on holiday-themed experiments.
• Interactive robotics and technology displays that are both fun and educational.
• The IMAX theater often features special holiday films.

Liberty Science Center combines the best of science with the excitement of Christmas, making it a great place to explore new things while celebrating the season.

These 10 unforgettable Christmas experiences in New Jersey are just the beginning of the state’s holiday offerings. New Jersey has everything if you’re looking for classic traditions, thrilling light displays, or unique experiences. As the season’s magic fills the air, I hope you take time to explore all the beauty and wonder this state offers during the holidays. Happy holidays!

What’s the best place to see Christmas lights in New Jersey?

The best place to see Christmas lights in New Jersey is Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson. This attraction dazzles visitors with over a million lights and festive holiday activities. It’s a must-see for anyone looking to experience a truly spectacular holiday display.

Is there a Christmas market in New Jersey?

Yes, there is! The Christmas Village in Philadelphia, located just a short drive from New Jersey, offers a delightful mix of unique gifts, festive food, and live performances, making it an ideal spot to get into the holiday spirit.

What unique Christmas activities can I do in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, you can enjoy unique Christmas activities like riding the magical Polar Express train, where kids and adults alike can experience the joy of the holiday season. Another must-see is the Dickens Village in Red Bank, where you can step back in time and experience the charm of Victorian-era Christmas traditions. These special holiday experiences add a unique touch to the festive season in New Jersey.

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