NJ Christmas, Hanukkah, holiday events for 2019
It's the most wonderful time of the year and New Jersey is the best place to celebrate and get in the holiday spirit. Below is our big list filled with local holiday events, all organized by date. Check back soon as we will be updating this list regularly and checking it twice. Happy Holidays!
Note: for more info or to make sure an event is still happening, please click the corresponding link to visit the event's website.
The place to celebrate the holidays from Thanksgiving up until Christmas; this month-long family event kicks off on the Sunday after Thanksgiving with Santa’s rooftop arrival and welcome ceremony. Family activities and entertainment on the historic Morristown Green, add to the dazzling “Lighting of the Green” ceremony with brilliant lights and wreaths adorning streetlights town-wide – a 100+ year tradition! Each weekend throughout December thousands of attendees from all over Northern New Jersey visit and enjoy Santa visits and photos, holiday crafts, miniature train rides around the Green, gingerbread house & ornament making, music by local choirs and entertainers, storytelling, ice sculpting demonstrations and free treats!
Nov 25, 2019 - Dec 23, 2019
The Morristown Green
10 N. Park Pl., Morristown, NJ 07960
Visit Red Bank and see how many places you can spot the Red Bank elf in town! Pick up the scavenger hunt list of places at Red Bank RiverCenter office, 140 Broad St. or download from redbank.org! Free drawings and prizes awarded. More than 2 dozen businesses have already adopted Red Bank elves. Businesses have the option of placing the elf in their window or inside their business.
Nov 29, 2019 - Dec 24, 2019
140 Broad Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701
Get into the Christmas spirit with a visit to our Country Christmas Corner featuring Santa himself! Be sure to bring a camera to capture a special photo with Santa. Enjoy roasting marshmallows over a cozy campfire, seasonal music and our Christmas tree forest. This event is free of charge for children of all ages!
Nov 29, 2019 - Dec 24, 2019
Alstede Farms
1 Alstede Farms Ln., Chester, NJ 07930
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Kale's Garden Center. While Kale's family awaits the much anticipated arrival of Santa Claus the elves are working diligently to create a Christmas wonderland. From floor to ceiling there is no corner that isn't decorated. For more than 60 years Santa has been known to make a few stops at Kale's Garden Center as he makes his way around the world to meet with all the wonderful children. Santa is eagerly waiting to make his 2019 debut. Santa will be visiting for three weekends: November 30 & December 1, 7, 8, 14 from 10 am - 4 pm and Sunday December 15t from 2 pm - 5 pm. With no long lines or pushy shoppers Kale's makes the perfect stop for your families Santa photos. Bring your own camera to take as many photos with Santa as you wish. The environment is relaxing and magical. There is no need to spend your holiday season in those shopping mall lines with the not so real looking Santa.
Nov 30, 2019 - Dec 14, 2019
Kale's Garden Center
133 Carter Rd, Princeton, NJ 08540
The Montague Association for the Restoration of Community History (M.A.R.C.H.) will be opening the historic, holiday decorated Foster Armstrong House (circa 1790's) for free costumed tours. We invite you to share the holiday spirit while you visit five specially themed rooms. Each room features a festive Christmas tree decorated in popular styles of the past. Bring your family to watch the model trains run under trees or lend a hand with the annual "Bell Hunt". During tours our gift shop will be open with handmade items from local artisans and books on community history and rare research materials will be available for purchase. More details will be available on Facebook or by calling.
Nov 30, 2019 - Dec 15, 2019
The Foster Armstrong House
320 River Rd., Montague, NJ 07827
Don't miss the most spectacular holiday market around! The Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar, taking place at historic Convention Hall on the beautiful beach in Asbury Park, NJ, will feature a curated roster of the best local and regional artists, vendors, and shops selling the cutest and coolest vintage, handmade, art, jewelry, home goods, foodstuffs, and more. Get all of your holiday shopping done while enjoying delicious food & libations, special musical performances, craft workshops, kids art classes, Photos with Santa Sundays, holiday photo booth pictures, a 30 foot Christmas tree, fireplace lounge, and beautiful holiday decor.
Nov 30, 2019 - Dec 22, 2019
Asbury Park Convention Hall
1300 Ocean Ave., Asbury Park, NJ 07712
The Magical Talking Tree wakes up every weekend noon - 5 pm to talk to the young and young at heart. The Christmas Train ride will take you on a ride from 10 am - 8 pm to see the whimsical decorated Village Story Time and Mrs. Claus will read stories from 1:30 - 4:30 pm to the children in her Christmas Cottage.
Nov 30, 2019 - Dec 22, 2019
Historic Smithville
615 E. Moss Mill Rd., Smithville, NJ 08205
Back for the holiday season! In the grand tradition of Mary Alice Kean, the last lady of the house, join Liberty Hall for its exquisite Afternoon Tea, served every week in the month of December. Our tremendously popular tea service includes a sumptuous selection of scones, assorted pastries, traditional finger sandwiches, and the freshest of fruit, concludes with an intimate, guided tour of the museum decorated for Christmas.
Dec 3, 2019 - Dec 19, 2019
Liberty Hall Museum
1003 Morris Ave., Union, NJ 07083
Thursday Night Holiday Lights welcomes shoppers and visitors to Flemington with festive evenings of holiday activities! Main Street, Stangl Road and Mine Street will feature caroling, antique fire truck rides, beautiful luminaries, visits from Santa and Paw Patrol, a wine tasting, live music and great shopping including special offers and fun activities from local businesses.
Dec 5, 2019 - Dec 19, 2019
Hunterdon County Historic Courthouse
75 Main St., Flemington, NJ 08822
Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity. The Pixie Dust Presents production arrives just in time for the holidays! Faced with the harsh realities that his father is on the naughty list and his half-brother doesn't even believe in Santa, Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.
Dec 6, 2019 - Dec 15, 2019
Union County Performing Arts Center's Hamilton Stage
360 Hamilton St., Rahway, NJ 07065
A candy lover’s dream, now in its 28th year! Marvel at the creativity and skill displayed at this festive and charming exhibit featuring 150+ edible masterpieces crafted by local schools, scout troops, and families. With past creations from Hogwarts, to enchanted gardens, pirate ships, and Santa’s Workshop, this is a must see for all ages. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite! This event is sponsored by The Friends of The Frelinghuysen Arboretum.
Dec 6, 2019 - Dec 15, 2019
Frelinghuysen Arboretum
353 E. Hanover Ave., Morris Township, NJ 07950
A world famous, Disney quality, computerized Christmas light show featuring computer controlled lights, pyrotechnic and robotic effects, and live Christmas music and cheer! Don't miss this one-of-a-kind, concert like, free event. Donations are encouraged to support a local charity named RallyCap Sports. We suggest $25 for a family and $10 for an individual.
Dec 7, 2019 - Dec 15, 2019
The All New McCanns
4185 Atlantic Ave., Wall Township, NJ 07719
The Dance Connection's Nutcracker is central New Jersey's original youth ballet Nutcracker. Young ballerinas and dancers from ages 5-18 dance a beautifully narrated and abridged version of Tchaikovsky's classical ballet. Come experience this beautiful story, the magic, the precision, and grace of theses talented young dancers.
Dec 7, 2019 - Dec 15, 2019
Various locations - See website for details
Come see operating train layouts and hands on displays. Santa will be here, bring your camera! Admit one adult FREE Dec. 7, 8, 14 & 15 with a new, unwrapped toy for the Marine Corps "Toys for Tots". Remember, this might be the only toy a child receives. Adults $7, Kids $3. Presented by The Garden State Central Model Railroad Club, Toys for Tots and InfoAge.
Dec 7, 2019 - Dec 22, 2019
InfoAge Science Center
2201 Marconi Rd., Wall, NJ 07719
This self-guided walking tour, features homes, inns, hotels and churches decorated for the holidays, plus caroling, strolling musicians and good old-fashioned cheer. Hospitality centers offer warm beverages and traditional treats. Includes admission to the Physick Estate and "An Old-fashioned Christmas Exhibit" in the Carroll Gallery. Adult admission $40. Presented by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC).
Dec 7, 2019 - Dec 28, 2019
Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC)
1048 Washington St., Cape May, NJ 08204
A live mash-up of nearly every movie version of A Christmas Carol ever made. Reid Farrington's A Christmas Carol conjures up over 100 years of film history through Dickens’ classic tale. Fast-paced, funny and moving, this multimedia theater experience is both a contemporary spin on a classic tale and a nostalgic journey for all ages - it's perfect for the whole family!
Dec 12, 2019 - Dec 22, 2019
Art House Productions
262 17th St., Jersey City, NJ 07310
Holiday CraftMorristown, December 13-15, 2019, is the best place to find uncommon and extraordinary gifts that loved ones will never forget. This curated event offers creative gift shoppers and design lovers the rare opportunity to shop from 165 visionary American artists and craftspeople and purchase their latest works at NJ’s most exciting and unique shopping event of the holiday season. In addition to thousands of distinctive and beautifully crafted objects there are basket weaving and copper-smithing demonstrations and a gourmet specialty food boutique. Friday 4pm to 8pm; Saturday 10am to 6pm; Sunday 10am to 5pm. Admission $10.
Dec 13, 2019 - Dec 15, 2019
430 Western Ave., Morristown, New Jersey 07960
New Jersey Ballet's Nutcracker enchants youngsters and grown-ups alike with splendid dancing, a live orchestra, and eye-popping special effects. Audiences of all ages will feel the holiday magic when the toys come alive and dance to the beloved music of this tale. New Jersey Ballet has thrilled audiences for more than half a century and nothing says "holiday magic" better than this classic show.
Dec 13, 2019 - Dec 20, 2019
Mayo Performing Arts Center
100 South St., Morristown, NJ 07960
Join us for an Indoor Holiday Lights Spectacular this December! Our winter wonderland includes treats, crafts, pictures with Santa & friends, games & more! The Aquarium, Sweet Shop, Aquarium Gift Shop & Pavilion arcade will be open!
Dec 13, 2019 - Dec 28, 2019
Jenkinson's Boardwalk
Ocean Ave., Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
Have you ever wished there was a one-stop shop for all your wine and Christmas tree needs? And maybe there would also be live music, food, and holiday decorations. Well get my red suit and call me Santa because your Christmas wish is coming true! Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery is hosting a holiday hoopla. Peruse our selection of live Christmas trees, wine in hand, and when you find the one, take it home or we'll tag it and have it ready for next-day pick-up at nearby Secluded Acres Farm & Garden Center. Bring the kids for a check-in with Santa so he can get those wish list requests before heading back to the North Pole to finish preparing for his big night (parents, bring your cameras!). Enjoy wine tastings and listen to live music with plenty of holiday tunes, featuring The Honeyhawks from 1-4pm. Sip on some mulled wine, and cozy up to our fire-pits. Visit our Barrel Room Kitchen for more holiday treats and snacks, we'll have those too!
Dec 14, 2019
Hawk Haven Vineyard and Winery
600 S. Railroad Ave., Rio Grande, NJ 08242
Experience Christmas is a completely free gift to the community that has run for six years. It is a live production nativity with three walk-through, outdoor scenes. After the last scene, feel free to pet the animals, enjoy complimentary refreshments and listen to live Christmas music. Shows run every fifteen minutes. No donations accepted.
Dec 14, 2019
1 Thunder Rd, Trenton, New Jersey 08611
Venture down to the WheatonArts Glass Studio on Saturday, December 7, 14, & 21 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. to watch our glass artists celebrate the season by creating holiday-themed glass objects, large and small! Visitors can also see other holiday glass objects on display, including the record-breaking giant glass ornament, glass fruitcake, the world’s largest glass turkey drumstick, and a 5'7" tall glass menorah.
Dec 14, 2019
1000 Village Drive, Millville, NJ 08332
Gather your family and friends and experience this holiday classic on the big screen at the Brook Arts center, in Bound Brook. The lyrics will be on-screen so you can sing along with Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen to such songs as “The Best Things Happen When You’re Dancing,” “Snow,” “Sisters” and, of course, the iconic “White Christmas . Sunday, December 15 - Showtime 2 pm. Doors will open at 1 pm with a visit with Santa. All Tickets are $7 available online at www.brookarts.org or at the box office. Wear your Ugly Holiday Sweater to enter our contest for prizes.
Dec 15, 2019
10 Hamilton St, Bound Brook, New Jersey 08805
Have a Holly Jolly Christmas at The Shannon Rose Irish Pub! Families are invited to enjoy Brunch with Santa in Clifton and Ramsey on Sunday, December 15 from 11am-1pm. Join us for a complimentary photo with Santa and ornament decorating! 10% of event sales & 100% of the proceeds from fundraisers at this event will be donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital!
Dec 15, 2019
The Shannon Rose Irish Pub
1200 NJ-17, Ramsey, New Jersey 07446
Chanukah celebration for the whole family. Musical performance and interactive workshop by Lopatnik Zhenya. Build your own lego Chanukiyah by talented Perlman Camp staff. Sufganiot and goody bags for children.
Dec 15, 2019
Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey
50 Eisenhower Drive, Paramus, NJ 07652
It's time to get ready for Hanukkah! Join Jewish Federation for an afternoon of fun, including making a string-art dreidel using a hammer and nails* with Maplewoodshop and more! For children 4 - 8. Siblings welcome. $10 per child, price includes craft supplies, pizza dinner, and sufganiyot (doughnuts). Kosher dietary laws observed. *adult assistance required.
Dec 15, 2019
JCC MetroWest
760 Northfield Ave, West Orange, NJ 07052
Join us as we welcome Gerald Dickens, the great, great grandson of Charles Dickens, for his one-man show, a theatrical performance of A Christmas Carol inspired by Charles’ own energetic readings of the 1860s. Gerald Dickens conjures A Christmas Carol with just a table, wing chair, and hat rack accompanying him on stage. As he leaps, sobs, and laughs, 26 characters of the classic tale are brought vividly to life. Gerald has created different postures and voices for each character, achieving this so adeptly that the audience has no doubt about “who is who,” so to speak.
Dec 15, 2019
400 Clifton Ave., Lakewood, New Jersey 08701
Santa Brunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus -- TWO SEATINGS: 10 - 10:30 am and 1 - 1:15 pm. Treat the kids to a pair of the most beloved holiday traditions, Sunday Brunch and Santa Claus! Adults $47, Kids $27. (All inclusive) Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at the brunch from 11 am - 1 pm. Reservations required, please CALL.
Dec 15, 2019 - Dec 22, 2019
Laurita Winery
85 Archertown Rd., New Egypt, NJ 08533
Home for the Holidays - celebrating the works of Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. The 3rd Annual Home for the Holidays benefit concert honors the continuing success of youth programming here at UCPAC under the Artistic Direction of Pixie Dust Players. This year's concert celebrates the works of Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (Once on this Island, Anastasia, Ragtime, Seussical, Rocky the list goes on!) The evening will begin with a gala at 6 pm and the performance will begin at 7:30 pm. Tickets: $35 Gala/Performance, includes pre-performance gala with lite fare and cash bar as well as preferred seating in front orchestra or first row of the loge. $22 Performance only.
Dec 20, 2019
Union County Performing Arts Center
1601 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065
Come for the carolers, stay for the s'mores & hot chocolate! Riverview Live is spreading Christmas cheer with a Yuletide celebration open to all. Mingle with the Burlington community on our heated patio, Hot Toddy in hand, to watch our Christmas tree light up while enjoying the sounds of the season sung by The American Caroling Company. Entrance is FREE, and $3 tickets are available for purchase at the gate to exchange for hot chocolate, s'mores & popcorn. 21+ can purchase special tickets for cocktails.
Dec 20, 2019
Riverview Live
219 High St., Burlington, NJ 08016
A holiday event for the whole family, The Nutcracker ROCKS is a mixture of high-power music and dance that will transport you to a land of brave toy soldiers and sweet sugar plum fairies. Based on E.T.A. Hoffman's original story, choreographer Gabriel Chajnik translates the Victorian-era Nutcracker from the bustles and ruffles of the 1890s to contemporary times in this premiere from the Axelrod Contemporary Ballet Theater. Clara's rocker Uncle Drosselmeier shakes things up when he shows up to a distinguished Manhattan holiday party with his electric guitar and his amazing toys, igniting the imagination of people young and old. The beloved Tchaikovsky score is reimagined in collaboration with renowned rocker Alex Levine, a member of The Gaslight Anthem. The Nutcracker ROCKS is destined to become a Jersey Shore staple for many holidays to come. Buy tickets online or in-person.
Dec 20, 2019 - Dec 22, 2019
Axelrod Performing Arts Center
100 Grant Ave., Deal Park, NJ 07723
Join us at the Historic Brook Theater for a multicultural holiday celebration presented by Upwards Entertainment. This gala winter event filled with music, dance and entertainment will delight all ages. The show features artists from ages 8-80, who will get you into the spirit of the holidays! Tickets $20, Senior & Student $15, available online.
Dec 21, 2019
Brook Arts Center
10 Hamilton St., Bound Brook, NJ 08805
In its 6th year partnering with The Garden State Philharmonic, The Atlantic City Ballet’s Nutcracker, is one of the areas time honored traditions and a treasured classic. The ballet tells the story of a little girl named Clara who is given a magical nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve. Embarking on a wondrous journey through the Kingdom of Snow and the Land of Sweets, Clara encounters many unforgettable and timeless characters. Young and old alike will experience the many magical moments, of this beloved holiday ballet. There’s no better way to spend the holidays with family and friends than by sharing Atlantic City Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker. Tickets $40 Orchestra, $50 Loge, $25 Mezzanine & Tier $20 Seniors all seats $15 Student all seats.
Dec 21, 2019
The Strand
400 Clifton Ave., Lakewood, NJ 08701
Franklin Theatre Works , Ensemble Theatre of NJ brings to life a true story of the Christmas Truce of World War I. Written by Peter Rothstein and vocal arrangements by Erick Lichte & Timothy C. Takach. Under the direction of Maeve Pambianchi and music direction of Jay Kawarsky this professional cast will deliver the "A heartbreaking tribute to the men, who, in defiance of their commanders had the courage to affirm their common humanity" The New Yorker Ticket price range $18-25. 3 performances only Funded in part by the Hunterdon County Board of Chosen Frreeholders through funds administered by the Cultural & Heritage Commission.
Dec 20, 2019 - Dec 21, 2019
301 Mt Airy-Harbourton Rd., Lambertville, NJ 08530
Come enjoy the Hanukkah Celebration scheduled for Sunday, December 22nd. This event is being planned and hosted in salute and appreciation to our local emergency rescue services and in memory of the Jersey City attack victims. The mayor of Burlington will be in attendance, the event is open to the public!
Dec 22, 2019
1816 Mt Holly Rd., Burlington, NJ 08016
Come one, come all to the annual Hanukkah Party! Everyone is welcome to attend, bring your family and friends along to join in the fun! No RSVP necessary No charge! Men’s Club Famous Latkes, Yummy treats from Sisterhood, Dreidel Games, DJ, Activities We invite unaffiliated guests to register at our welcome desk and receive a Chanukah gift!
Dec 22, 2019
Congregation Torat El
301 Monmouth Rd., Oakhurst, NJ 07755
Marketspace Vendor Events and The Township of Maplewood cordially invite you to Handmade Holiday at The Woodland in bustling Maplewood, NJ. Vendors are exhibiting by invite only. Admission is FREE to the public.
Dec 22, 2019
The Woodland
60 Woodland Rd., Maplewood, NJ 07040
Celebrating nearly 35 years of music making, Cherish the Ladies continues to delight audiences with its beautiful vocals, captivating arrangements and stunning step dancing. You’ll delight in the special Christmas music that embodies the beauty of the season- Celtic style!
Dec 22, 2019
South Orange Performing Arts Center
1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, NJ 07079
The sounds of the season spring to life as Monmouth Civic Chorus presents their annual holiday concert. Artistic Director Dr. Ryan Brandau masterfully intertwines all your favorite choruses from Messiah with original stirring settings of holiday favorites.
Dec 22, 2019
Count Basie Center for the Arts
99 Monmouth St., Red Bank, NJ 07701
Create new family traditions by celebrating the traditions of an Old World Christmas. Join us for CHRISTMAS AT ALLAIRE - a day full of interactive programs and holiday activities as you experience the Magic and Joys of Christmas Past. Warm up on the open hearth, make Christmas treats, creating winter arts and crafts, dancing and singing at the historic chapel, listening to the village carolers and musicians as they stroll the village, storytelling, preparing the Allaire Mansion for a French Christmas, and much more! Bring your holiday cards to be sent from our historic post office located in the General Store. Also keep your eyes out for Santa, a great photo opportunity!
Dec 22, 2019
4263 Atlantic Ave., Farmingdale, NJ 07727
December 26 – Faux Stained Glass Inspired by the works of stained glass in the Museum's collection and in Unexpected Color: A Journey Through Glass, create your own seasonal faux stained glass piece. December 27 – Seasonal Scrolls Design a seasonal scroll focusing on the five senses inspired by the Mandala scrolls in Beyond Zen: Japanese Buddhism Revealed. December 28 – Create a Holiday Plate Deck a plate with boughs of holly! Embellish a ceramic plate with your interpretation of the glitz and glamor of the season! (For decorative purposes only) December 29 – Paper Lotus Lanterns Shine your light into the world! Build a paper lotus lantern to light up the season! For all ages.
Dec 26, 2019 - Dec 29, 2019
The Newark Museum of Art
49 Washington St., Newark, NJ 07102
Be the first to ring in the New Year... Kid style! The entire museum will be singing and dancing and counting down to 2020 with our biggest celebration yet!
Dec 31, 2019
Garden State Discovery Museum
2040 Springdale Rd., Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
Led by a witty and charming conductor who is an expert in Viennese music, Salute to Vienna brings the music of Johann Strauss to life with European singers, ballroom dancers, and ballet. Backed by the Strauss Symphony of America, the performance is rich with selections from beloved operettas, elegant dances, lively overtures, and the beautiful Blue Danube Waltz. Celebrate the start of the New Year with Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert, delighting audiences in North America for 25 years.
Dec 31, 2019
State Theatre New Jersey
15 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Ring in the New Year at iPlay America's annual New Year's Eve Celebration! Bring the entire family and enjoy a night of rides, party favors, live DJ, and giveaways! There will be confetti cannons at midnight as you watch the ball drop on our many large screens and monitors!
Dec 31, 2019 - Jan 1, 2020
iPlay America
110 Schanck Rd., Freehold, NJ 07728
The biggest and brightest New Year's Eve celebration in New Jersey, providing a magnificent family-friendly, substance-free and alcohol-free celebration in 22 venues throughout the heart of Morristown. Starts at 4:45 pm. Fireworks light up the sky at 9:15 pm and midnight!
Dec 31, 2019 - Jan 1, 2020
Morristown Green
South St., Morristown, NJ 07963
Know of a New Jersey holiday event that is not on our list? Submit the information below and make sure to put 'Holiday Event' in the name field at the top.
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