New Jersey

Santa Sightings, Holiday Light Shows, and More Things To Do this Weekend in New Jersey

These are the best kid-friendly events and activities in NJ this weekend.

It costs nothing to take in the display at Fanwood's Famous Christmas House. Photo courtesy of Fanwood's Famous Christmas House

34 Free Holiday and Christmas Events in New Jersey for Kids 2025

Give your wallet a break this holiday season at these great events.

The Turtle Back Zoo holiday lights show in West Orange is one of our top picks for family fun this Christmas. Photo by Kaylynn Ebner

21 Must-Do Christmas Events and Holiday Activities in New Jersey for Kids in 2025

These are the best ways to celebrate the holiday season in New Jersey with kids.

GUIDE

Guide to Holiday and Christmas Events for NJ Families

The amazing events in our happy-holiday state are sure to get your family in the holiday groove!

The spectacular Winter WonderLights drive-thru boasts more than 1.5 million lights animated to favorite holiday tunes,

Best 2025 Holiday Lights Drive-Thrus and Christmas Light Shows in New Jersey

Check out one of NJ's stunning outdoor light shows this season.

Grab a spot in the Car Menorah Parade or catch the end of the cavalcade for candle lighting and refreshments. Photo courtesy of Chabad Center Cherry Hill

18 Best Things To Do in New Jersey with Kids December 2025, from Mommy Poppins Editors

From light displays to Santa meet-and-greets, our top NJ events are filled with holiday cheer.

Donations to Fanwood's Famous Christmas House support charity. Photo courtesy of the family

Best Neighborhood Christmas Light Displays and Holiday Lights in New Jersey 2025

Check out the dazzling holiday light displays at these NJ homes.

More than 50,000 illuminated tulips will line the fields of Holland Ridge Farms' Winter Wonderland show. Photo courtesy of the farm

New Jersey's Most Popular Christmas Events to Book Now Before They Sell Out for 2025

Snag tickets to these popular holiday events before they sell out.

Join a magical trip on the Polar Express powered by the Morristown & Erie Railway. Photo courtesy of the railway

Polar Express Trains in New Jersey for Families in 2025

Enjoy a holiday tradition on one of these Christmas train rides.

Spend a day running around at Johnson's Corner Farm this November. Photo courtesy of the farm

25 Things To Do in New Jersey During November 2025 School Holidays

NJ school kids have lots of days off in November, and we've found ways to fill them.

Get drawn into the art at the Morris Museum next time you're looking for indoor activities for kids in New Jersey. Photo by Kaylynn Chiarello Ebner

40 Things To Do Indoors in New Jersey on a Rainy Day

From skating and mini golf to painting and high tea, there's plenty to do when it's wet outside.

Romp with the triceratops and other dinos at Field Station: Dinosaurs in Leonia. Photo by Janet Bloom

Ultimate New Jersey Bucket List: 100 Things To Do with Kids in NJ

Consider this your childhood bucket list for New Jersey kids. How many have you done?

Admission to the Cohanzick Zoo in Bridgeton is completely free. Photo by Lisa Warden

100 Free Things To Do in New Jersey with Kids

Check out our mega-list of 100 free things to do with your family in NJ.

Get ready for back to school with all the right supplies, classes, and tips.

GUIDE

Back-to-School Guide 2025-2026

Find cool backpacks, back-to-school supplies, and tips for a new year.

The Rainforest Cafe has two family-friendly restaurants in New Jersey. Photo courtesy of Rainforest Cafe

Themed Restaurants in New Jersey for Family-Friendly Interactive Dining

Make your next family meal a little more exciting at these fun NJ eateries.

Cruise in the Playmobil Fire Truck during your trip to Toys

Top Free Things To Do Indoors in New Jersey: Free Places to Play Indoors

This is where to take the kids to play indoors in NJ without spending a cent!

Make a splash at a Jersey Shore waterpark, like Ocean Oasis at Morey's Piers. Photo by Kip Dawkins

100 Things To Do at the Jersey Shore with Kids in 2025

Heading down the Shore? Here are the must-dos for families.

Attractions at Morganville's Play Big Zone include arcades games and a 2,000-square-foot obstacle course.

20 Best Kids' Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces in New Jersey

Slide, swing, climb, and bounce your heart out at these action-packed NJ spots.

GUIDE

Summer Camps Guide for New Jersey Kids

Find a great summer camp in New Jersey for your child.

The Battkeship New Jersey is an amazing hands on experience for families. Photo by Lisa Warden

Best NJ Children's Museums in South and Central Jersey

Explore a battleship, learn about shipwrecks, and more at these NJ institutions.

GUIDE

Guide to Indoor Play Spaces for New Jersey Kids

Best indoor play in NJ for when bad weather strikes.

At Genius Gems in Millburn, kids under 2 get in free with an older sibling.

Budget-Friendly Indoor Play Spaces in New Jersey: Drop-in Play for $25 or Less

These indoor playgrounds in NJ won't break the bank.

Hang out with the giant hippos at Camden's Adventure Aquarium. Photo by Kaylynn Chiarello Ebner

The Best New Jersey Zoos and Aquariums to Visit with Kids

This is the ultimate guide to NJ's awesome zoos, aquariums, and preserves.

New Jersey kids can find free fun climbing the pirate ship at the free Garden State Plaza Westfield mall. Photo by Mommy Poppins

GUIDE

Guide to Free Fun Things To Do with NJ Kids

Find the best FREE kids activities in New Jersey.

The accessible playground at Watsessing Park works for children of all abilities. Photo by Margaret Hargrove

Best Playgrounds in New Jersey Worth the Drive

You may find a zoo or water feature at one of these tricked-out play spots.

Pet baby goats on a visit to Brookhollow's Barnyard in Boonton. Photo by Kaylynn Ebner

Meet the Animals at these New Jersey Petting Zoos and Animal Farms

Get your fill of cuteness with the furry residents of these NJ farms.

Beyond the casinos, Atlantic City is an all-ages playground, with Island Waterpark, boardwalk amusements, beach access, and more fun.

Atlantic City with Kids: 34 Top Things To Do in Atlantic City, NJ

These are our insider tips for making Atlantic City a family-friendly paradise.

The Funplex has two New Jersey locations for families to explore and enjoy.

Best Family Fun Centers & Indoor Amusement Parks in New Jersey

Your kids will have a blast and burn off energy at these indoor play zones.

Palmer Square is a great place to relax in the heart of Princeton. Photo courtesy of Palmer Square

22 Best Things To Do in Princeton, NJ, with Kids

Find culture, natural beauty, and plenty of family fun in this charming university town.

At a Bach to Rock birthday party, kids can sing karaoke or record their own CD.

18 Top Birthday Party Places in New Jersey for Kids

Celebrate your next big bday at one of NJ's top party venues.

Nickelodeon Universe is one of the can't-miss destinations at American Dream Mall in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo courtesy of the venue

VIDEO

Visiting American Dream Mall in New Jersey: 26 Fun Things To Do and Tips For Your Visit

At 3 million square feet, kid-pleasers abound at this shopping and entertainment complex.

Bounce, climb, and jump at BounceU in Paramus, one of our top indoor play spaces in northern New Jersey.

Top Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces in Northern New Jersey

Kids of all ages can climb, bounce, and more at these North Jersey fun spots.

Hike 1.6 miles to reach the dramatic beauty of South Mountain Reservation's Hemlock Falls. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala

Easy Waterfall Hikes in Northern New Jersey for Kids in 2025

Here's where to chase waterfalls in northern NJ.

Cheesequake State Park in Middlesex County offers hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and much more. Photo by Ali Chandra

Great Day Trips to New Jersey State Parks and Forests

NJ's state parks and forests make for a great family day trip.

The Camden Children's Garden offers free admission for children under 2.

Free Admission for Kids at 50+ Top New Jersey Family Attractions

Do your kiddos qualify for free entry at these NJ destinations? Find out here!

Top Free Things To Do Indoors in New Jersey: Free Places to Play Indoors

This is where to take the kids to play indoors in NJ without spending a cent!

Hop aboard a stagecoach for a ride back in time at Wild West City, one of New Jersey's top attractions.

Top Attractions in New Jersey: Best Things To See and Do With Kids

Revel in all the family-friendly destinations the Garden State has to offer.

Creating a baking soda volcano is a classic science experiment for kids. Photo by Sara Marentette Nighswander

67 Easy Science Experiments for Kids To Do at Home

Execute mind-blowing science experiments with stuff you have around the house.

65 Life Skills to Teach Kids at Every Age

It's not a bad time to go back to basics, especially when we have the kids' full attention.

75 Indoor Activities for Kids on a Rainy Day

Turn a stuck-at-home day into a lasting memory.

GUIDE

New Jersey Amusement Parks and Water Parks Guide

New Jersey is loaded with fun amusement and water parks!

Find Things To Do In New Jersey

SEE ALL ACTIVITIES EVENTS CLASSES ATTRACTIONS VIRTUAL CAMPS PARTIES

Featured

Elf in Concert
NJPAC (and additional location) - 2:00 PM

Free Horse & Carriage Rides in Ocean City
Downtown Ocean City - 12:00 PM Pick

Free Photos with Santa on the Amusement Park Train Ride
Jenkinson's Boardwalk - 1:30 PM Pick

Scotch Plains Holiday Celebration
Alan Augustine Village Green - 1:00 PM Pick

Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights
Turtle Back Zoo - 5:00 PM Pick

Preschool Storytime at Bridgewater Library
Bridgewater Library - 10:30 AM Pick

Shake, Rattle, & Read: A Lapsit Storytime at Edison Public Library
Edison Public Library - 10:00 AM Pick

Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights
Turtle Back Zoo - 5:00 PM Pick

Christmas Underwater at Adventure Aquarium
Adventure Aquarium - 10:00 AM

Fanwood's Famous Christmas House
Fanwood's Famous Christmas House - 4:00 PM

Barnes & Noble Storytime in Livingston
Barnes & Noble Livingston - 10:00 AM Pick

Bookscape Babies at Cotsen Children's Library
Cotsen Children's Library at Princeton University Library - 11:00 AM Pick

Wags & Wiggles at Animal Welfare Association
Animal Welfare Association - 11:00 AM Pick

Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights
Turtle Back Zoo - 5:00 PM Pick

Christmas Underwater at Adventure Aquarium
Adventure Aquarium - 10:00 AM

Featured

Gingerbread House Decorating and Family Night
Morven Museum & Garden - 4:30 PM

Play Cafe at Ramsey Free Public Library
Ramsey Free Public Library - 10:30 AM Pick

Barnes & Noble Storytime in Holmdel
Barnes & Noble - 11:00 AM Pick

Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights
Turtle Back Zoo - 5:00 PM Pick

Morven's Festival of Trees
Morven Museum & Garden - 10:00 AM

Barnes & Noble Storytime in Livingston
Barnes & Noble Livingston - 10:00 AM Pick

Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights
Turtle Back Zoo - 5:00 PM Pick

Food Truck Thursdays in Union
Town Hall Parking Lot - 5:30 PM Pick

Deptford Mall Kid's Mini Theater Show
Deptford Mall - various times Pick

Morven's Festival of Trees
Morven Museum & Garden - 10:00 AM

Storytime with Ms. Cassia at Hoboken Historical Museum
Hoboken Historical Museum - 10:00 AM Pick

Wags & Wiggles at Animal Welfare Association
Animal Welfare Association - 11:00 AM Pick

Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights
Turtle Back Zoo - 5:00 PM Pick

Lighting Up Nature Drive-Thru
Jakes Branch County Park Nature Center - 6:00 PM Pick

2025 Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar
Grand Arcade and Convention Hall - various times Pick

Featured

Snoopy's Winter Wonder Bash at Paley Land
Paley Museum - 12:00 PM

Wildwood Family Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting Ceremony
Wildwoods Convention Center - 9:00 AM Pick

Winter Solstice Celebration
Cattus Island County Park - 11:00 AM Pick

Free Photos with Santa and The Grinch at Garden State Harley-Davidson
Garden State Harley-Davidson - 11:00 AM Pick

Santa Claus in Ridgewood
Memorial Park - 11:00 AM Pick

Latest Articles

Sofia serves festive brunches and dinners on Christmas Day.

Best Family-Friendly Restaurants Open on Christmas Day in New Jersey 2025

Danielle Halibey, Dec 7 - Skip the cooking on Christmas Day and enjoy a meal at one of these local restaurants. READ MORE

Holland Ridge Farms blooms with tulips in all seasons thanks to its holiday light show. Photo courtesy of the farm

New Jersey's Unusual and Underrated Christmas and Holiday Activities

Jennifer Setteducato, Dec 5 - Looking for something new this holiday season? Here are some off-the-beaten path picks. READ MORE

Santa Sightings, Holiday Light Shows, and More Things To Do this Weekend in New Jersey

Laurie Rein, Dec 5 - These are the best kid-friendly events and activities in NJ this weekend. READ MORE

Tour the Sussex County Fairgrounds in horse-and-carriage during a visit to the German Christmas Market of New Jersey.

The German Christmas Market of NJ Could Be Your Family's New Go-To Holiday Tradition

Jennifer Setteducato, Dec 1 - This local market might be the best Christmas tradition you've never heard of. READ MORE

18 Best Things To Do in New Jersey with Kids December 2025, from Mommy Poppins Editors

Laurie Rein, Nov 30 - From light displays to Santa meet-and-greets, our top NJ events are filled with holiday cheer. READ MORE

Best 2025 Holiday Lights Drive-Thrus and Christmas Light Shows in New Jersey

Laurie Rein, Nov 28 - Check out one of NJ's stunning outdoor light shows this season. READ MORE

More Latest

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

Hershey Park's Candy Cane Lane is the stuff of sweet, holiday memories. Photo courtesy of Hershey Park

Christmas Towns and Festive Hotels near NYC that Will Blow Your Mind

If all you want for Christmas is a seasonal getaway, consider this list is our gift to you. READ MORE

Take in the splendor of the season with a fall getaway to Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz. Photo courtesy of Mononk Mountain House

22 Fall Weekend Getaways near NYC for Families

Colorful foliage, hiking, even luxury digs: Plan your fall escape. READ MORE

With more than 18 miles of trails to explore, Duke Farms is a beautiful backdrop for a fall day trip. Photo by Kaylynn Chiarello Ebner

26 Best Fall Day Trips from New Jersey for Kids

Celebrate autumn in NJ with hikes, apple picking, and more. READ MORE

Fall foliage provides a glorious backdrop for a seasonal hike in the Delaware Water Gap. Photo by aimintang via Canva.com

Best Kid-Friendly Trails in the Delaware Water Gap Perfect for Fall Foliage Walks

Take in the splendor of autumn on one of these great leaf-peeping walks. READ MORE

The bucolic setting of the Red Mill Museum looks great no matter the season. Photo by Anthony Cuffari via Flickr.

GUIDE

Guide to Family Day Trips in New Jersey

New Jersey has tons to offer: museums, beaches, state parks, and historic towns. READ MORE

The H2Oooohh! indoor water park is a highlight of Split Rock Resort. Photo courtesy of the resort

The Best Poconos Resorts for a Family Vacation

Book a vacation in the Poconos for family-friendly activities and all-season getaways. READ MORE