Halloween’s over. Thanksgiving is almost here. Christmas is just around the corner. Can you feel the excitement? New Jersey has a host of delightful activities to make this winter season extra special. As the holiday spirit fills the air, let’s explore some of my family’s must-visit attractions to experience the magic of the season. You and your loved ones are sure to enjoy these Central Jersey winter events, too!
1. Magic of Lights PNC Holiday Light Show – Holmdel, NJ
Kick off the holiday season by immersing yourself in the enchanting PNC Holiday Light Show. The PNC Bank Arts Center transforms into a winter wonderland with breathtaking displays of lights. This is one of our family’s favorite tried and true Central Jersey winter events. It’s easy to get to, located just off the Garden State Parkway. Magic of Lights is a dazzling, drive-through experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations. Experience the magic from the comfort and safety of your own car as you wind through the dazzling displays, featuring thousands of twinkling lights, festive music, and a walk-through holiday village sponsored by Toyota. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit!
The event runs November 17th through December 30th, 2023, Sunday through Thursday 5:00 -10:00pm with an extra hour of magic Friday through Saturday 5:00 -11:00pm. Tickets are by the carload so pile into one vehicle and make memories! This year marks the debut of MagicVisionยฎ, a set of free, selfie-filters and playful social media animations anyone can use to create and share their own unique, animated holiday greetings with friends and family. Go to www.magicoflights.com/magicvision in advance to download.
2. Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Great Adventure – Jackson, NJ
Calling all thrill-seekers and holiday enthusiasts! Six Flags Great Adventure hosts Holiday in the Park, an event that combines the excitement of the theme park with the magic of the season. Come out and experience glittering lights, dazzling holiday entertainment, delicious seasonal treats, and more this holiday season. Enjoy thrilling rides, meet Santa, and bask in the glow of millions of holiday lights. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience for the whole family!
Holiday in the Park operates on select days from November 24, 2023, through January 1, 2024. Check out their calendar of events for timing and more details. You will need individual tickets for park admission, whether those be one-day or annual passes.
3. The Polar Express Ride – Whippany, NJ
All aboard the Polar Express! Embark on a one-hour magical journey to the North Pole, inspired by the beloved children’s book. Have your golden ticket ready! Led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train, the whole family can wear their coziest pajamas and be transported to a world of holiday magic. All passengers are served hot chocolate and shortbread cookies by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the Chris Van Allsburg classic, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families!
Consider yourself warned: this is an event that sells out year after year. You’ll want to check schedules and purchase tickets ASAP. Early November departure dates ensure the best availability! An $11 parking pass is also required for each vehicle. Pricing will vary based on the train car selected (Coach vs First Class) and the departure date selected:
- 2023 Coach Class Pricing: Value Departures: $55 Adult, $48 Child (2-11); Standard Departures: $68 Adult, $59 Child (2-11); Premium Departures: $79 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)
- 2023 First Class Pricing: Value Departures: $85 Adult, $78 Child (2-11); Standard Departures: $85 Adult, $78 Child (2-11); Premium Departures: $93 Adult, $86 Child (2-11)
4. Ice Skating – Red Bank, NJ + Various Locations
Central Jersey offers various ice skating rinks for those who love to glide on the ice. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a barely-there beginner, you can enjoy this timeless winter activity. Check out your local rinks and spend a fun day on the ice with your family! Our family favorite? Red Bank Armory! They offer public skating hours on Sundays and Fridays beginning in November as well as private rink rentals. Admission is just $10 and skate rentals are $5! It’s an inexpensive family date night.
5. Local Holiday Markets – Various Locations
Don’t forget to explore your local Christmas markets! You’ll find unique gifts, handcrafted items, and delicious treats. It’s an excellent way to support local artisans and small businesses during the holiday season. Check your town’s Facebook page or county mom groups for pop-up details.
Outside of New Jersey, Bryant Park’s Winter Village in NYC is a classic. We love people-watching, exploring the shops, and grabbing a bite to eat before heading back home. Speaking of home…
6. Home Is Where the Heart Is – Houses Everywhere
Of course, there’s no place like home! Staying home is the ultimate Central Jersey winter event. Create a cozy atmosphere with warm blankets, hot cocoa, and your favorite holiday movies. Get creative with holiday crafts and family nights that engage your little ones in the festive spirit. We love to decorate sugar cookies, build gingerbread houses, and share snacks with friends and family!
As you know, winter in the Garden State has something for everyone, from twinkling lights to thrilling rides and cozy moments at home. If you want to venture out even further, there’s plenty to do in nearby Philadelphia and New York City, too; that’s the joy of living in the tri-state!
ACTIONABLE STEPS: I hope you and your family have an amazing time embracing the magic of the season. Wishing you a joyful and cozy early winter in the heart of New Jersey. ๐ (Because for the last time, yes, we do exist!) If you have any tried and true Central Jersey winter events, do share them with us in the comments below. We’re always looking for new experiences!
