Don’t let the cold weather get you down! Enjoy the season with your family and friends at one of New Jersey’s many holiday festivals and events, including winter art festivals, holiday parades and much more. Here are 5 can’t-miss winter festivals and events to check out in New Jersey this year:
The Festival of Trees
There’s something undeniably magical about the winter holidays. The Festival of Trees in Basking Ridge, NJ, close to The Enclave at Dewy Meadows, is a great way to get into the holiday spirit with family and friends. This indoor festival features Christmas trees decorated by
community members in festive decor. With live music on weekends, you’re sure to get everyone into the spirit of the season!
PNC Bank Arts Center Magic of Lights
Celebrate the holiday season with The PNC Bank Arts Center Magic of Lights in Holmdel along the Garden State Parkway, making it easily accessible from most of our communities. This event transforms the Garden State Exhibit Center into a winter wonderland that will delight children of all ages. With over two million lights, live music, ice skating, Christmas tree displays, Santa’s Village and more, this event is sure to be a magical experience for the whole family. Make plans today to visit The PNC Bank Arts Center Magic of Lights on select dates from November 24th through December 31st.
River Edge Family Hannukah Celebration
The River Edge Family Hannukah Celebration is hosted on December 11 and just a short drive from Washington Promenade. Great for all ages, the celebration includes music, holiday crafts, dreidel spinning contests, a menorah making workshop, matzah ball cooking demonstrations, and more. Be sure to stop by the library to get your hands on some free books! The event takes place at River Edge Library from 12:30pm to 3:00pm. All are welcome to attend!
Bergen County Winter Wonderland
Ice skating and carousel rides will be coming to the Bergen County Winter Wonderland this season. This event is family-friendly, so kids of all ages are welcome! It is open Saturdays and Sundays through January 2 in 1.5- to 2-hour time slots; be sure to check the date for the hours they are open, as they vary throughout the week and weekend. Take a short trip from your home at The Dayton to this incredible event.
Let It Glow at the Bergen County Zoo
This winter, the Bergen County Zoo will be hosting Let It Glow, an event that is sure to get you in the holiday spirit. With all sorts of snow-related activities, you’ll be able to enjoy the winter wonderland inside the zoo. From ice skating to hot chocolate stations to snowball fights, there will be plenty of fun activities for kids and adults alike. The cost is $8 per person with children under 2 admitted for free. It’s not too late to purchase tickets online or at the gate (cash only). And don’t forget your flashlight so you can take part in a night hike! This event is a quick drive from both Fair Lawn Commons and Fair Lawn Promenade.
Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms
Ready to experience some of the most spectacular holiday lights displays, festive entertainment, and traditional winter activities? The Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms is a must visit destination this winter season, close to all our Bergen County homes. From the North Pole Village to the world’s largest gingerbread house and over two million lights on display, this family-friendly event has something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can also enjoy many other attractions, including hot cocoa stations, carriage rides, petting zoos with live reindeer, camel rides, and more! All activities are included in the admission prices. The Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms will be open every day from November 24th until December 30th.