Best Holiday Events in North Jersey 2023
With December just around the corner, the holiday season is about to kick off in Northern New Jersey. Christina Gibbons Group has put together a hand-picked list of festive events that are sure to make this year's holiday season unforgettable. If you are a long-time resident or considering a move to the area, these local events are a great way to experience the community spirit that makes Bergen & Hudson County special places to call home.
Downtown for the Holiday's Tree Lighting
Celebrate the holiday season at Ridgewood's renowned tree lighting and explore the additional festivities at the 38th annual Downtown for the Holidays.
When: Friday, December 1st | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Downtown Ridgewood
Santa Claus is Coming To Wyckoff
This fun-filled event will feature Santa and Mrs. Claus on a fire truck ride through town, culminating with the town's annual tree lighting.
When: Friday, December 1st | 5:15 PM - 7:30 PM
Location: Town Hall in Wyckoff
Bergen County's Winter Wonderland
This popular holiday attraction brings in over 30,000 visitors annually and features ice skating, a beer and wine garden, ice bumper cars, and weekly live entertainment.
When: November 25th - January 6th
Location: Van Saun Park in Paramus
Orchard of Lights
Take your vehicle on a guided tour through 32 acres of brilliant holiday light displays, warm up by a fire pit, enjoy hot cocoa, and take pictures with Santa.
When: November 22nd - December 29th
Location: Demarest Farms, Hillsdale
Menorah Lightings In Northwest Bergen County
If you're looking for a memorable Hanukkah celebration, join the festivities at Mahwah's Municipal Building, Paramus' Garden State Plaza, and Ridgewood's Memorial Park for an unforgettable Menorah lighting.
When: December 7th | 5:30 PM - 6:00 PM (Ridgewood); December 11th | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (Mahwah); December 7th | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM (Paramus)
Location: Van Nest Square Memorial Park, Ridgewood; 475 Corporate Drive, Mahwah; Garden State Plaza, Paramus
Polar Express Train Ride With Santa
An hour-long experience with a delightful array of on-board entertainment, sing alongs, a lively cast of costumed characters, and the chance to meet Santa Claus in person.
When: December 9th | 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM
Location:
Mrs. Claus' Kitchen
Step into a whimsical gingerbread haven for kitchen secrets and picture perfect moments with Mrs. Claus - you'll also get the chance to help Mrs. Claus with the baking!
When: Friday - Sunday through December 24th
Location: Garden State Plaza, Paramus
Miracle On Mercer
During the holiday season, Franklin Social gets into the Christmas spirit with a special pop-up called Miracle on Mercer that offers a variety of festive experiences and holiday themed drinks, including the Christmapolitan and Snowball Old Fashioned.
When: Mondays - Fridays: 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM & Saturdays/Sundays: 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM through January 1st
Location: Franklin Social 292 Barrow in Jersey City
Customize Your Wreath & Pay A Visit To Santa
For the do-it-your-selfers, this is a great spot to customize wreaths with a wide variety of trimmings and accents. Call Goffle Brook Farms for information on their wreath decorating class and snap a picture with Santa Clause in his workshop!
When: Times Vary - call (201) 652-7540 for details
Location: Goffle Brook Farms - 423 Goffle Road, Ridgewood
Tenafly Holiday Market
Shop The Main Street Holiday Market for a varied collection of local artisans & small businesses offering unique gifts for everyone on your list.
When: December 2nd | 11:00 AM - 4: 00 PM
Location: Peace Plaza - 100 Riveredge Plaza
Hoboken Santacon 2023
Get ready to immerse yourself in a one of a kind celebration that brings together thousands of cheerful Santas, elves, and holiday enthusiasts from all over the tristate area.
When: Saturday, December 16th - Begins at 10:00 AM
Location: Hoboken, NJ