Experience the Magic of the Holidays at the Jersey Shore

During the holiday season, the Garden State comes alive with dazzling Christmas lights, festive markets, and themed pop-up bars. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, here’s your definitive guide to the best New Jersey Christmas events, activities, and attractions that will make your holiday unforgettable. 

Stroll through a winter wonderland with a holiday lights extravaganza 

Nothing says Christmas at the Jersey Shore like twinkling lights reflecting off the coast, home to some of the most spectacular displays in all of New Jersey. 

• Historic Smithville’s Holiday Light Show
  Visit Historic Smithville for its renowned Holiday Light Show, where over 100 Christmas trees float on the lake, synchronized to your favorite holiday tunes. Walk the charming cobblestone paths, shop for quirky gifts, and indulge in seasonal treats. 

• Magic of Lights at PNC Bank Arts Center
  Located a short drive West of Jersey Shore, this drive-through mile-long display features millions of LED lights arranged in enchanting holiday themes. It’s one of the most popular Christmas lights in New Jersey and a dream for a family outing. 

Christmas villages and markets 

Immerse yourself in the seasonal spirit by visiting a New Jersey Christmas village or festive market. 

• Congress Hall Winter Wonderland
  Christmas at the Jersey Shore wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Cape May’s Congress Hall, an iconic destination for holiday cheer. Their Congress Hall Christmas events include a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a magical holiday shopping village. Kids will love meeting Santa Claus, while adults can sip on seasonal cocktails. 

• Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar
  For handmade gifts, artisan crafts, and live music, head to the Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar. This market is a local favorite, offering classy seasonal finds and delicious holiday treats right by the beach. 

• Tuckerton Seaport’s Christkindlmarkt
  Enjoy an authentic German-style Christmas market featuring live entertainment, horse-drawn wagon rides, and holiday shopping. It’s an original way to spend a festive day outdoors. 

Classic holiday feels  

Celebrate Christmas at the Jersey Shore with classic holiday performances and seasonal activities, set to transport you into a world of Yuletide magic. 

• Cape May’s Dickens Festival
  Step back in time and experience the Victorian charm of Cape May during the annual Dickens Festival. Stroll through beautifully decorated streets, enjoy the traditional melodies coming from carolers, and catch a live reading of “A Christmas Carol.” 

• Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Great Adventure
  For a mix of thrills and holiday cheer, visit Six Flags for their annual Holiday in the Park. The park transforms into a winter wonderland with dazzling light displays, seasonal food, and festive entertainment.  

• Santa’s Christmas Wonderland at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk
  Jenkinson’s turns into a festive paradise with Santa visits, holiday games, and activities for kids of all ages. Or wait til just after December 25 to witness Santa dive into the aquarium tanks, If that’s not original, we don’t know what is! 

• Atlantic City
  Take in the dazzling light displays and holiday shows at Atlantic City’s famous casinos. From holiday concerts to festive shopping, there’s no shortage of entertainment here for a fast-paced lead-in to Christmas. 

4. Outdoor ice skating    

The Jersey Shore offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor winter fun. Here are some of our favorites: 

• Pier Village ice rink
  Strap on your skates and glide along the ice at the Pier Village ice rink in Long Branch. Whether you’re a natural on the ice or spend your time trying to stay upright, you can reward yourself afterward with a hot cocoa from one of the nearby cafes. 

• Sandbar Village Winter Wonderland
  For a seaside winter experience, head to ICONA’s Sandbar Village Winter Wonderland. Located in Avalon, this festive beachfront attraction has all of the holiday magic with its outdoor ice-skating rink and cozy fire pits with ocean views. Perfect for families, friends, or a romantic outing, this seasonal event combines the charm of the holidays with the beauty of the Jersey Shore.  

• Renault Winery’s Vintner Wonderland
  Ice skating is the star on top of the tree at this elegant Christmas experience! Combine some time on the ice with a mull around the winery enjoying its culinary treats, warming drinks, and enchanting atmosphere.  

Festive places to dine 

Christmas at the Jersey Shore wouldn’t be complete without a delicious meal or seasonal cocktail and these picks boast some of the best Christmas-themed restaurants. Why not make a weekend of it with a stay at one of our homely Jersey Shore rentals? 

• Blue Pig Tavern This historic diner within Congress Hall Hotel offers a relaxed food experience with a menu filled with holiday specials and a beachfront location
• Scarborough Fair Restaurant
  The owners have waved a magic Christmas wand to transform their long-standing restaurant into a whimsical wonderland of lights, making sure that each year has a slightly different holiday theme. This attention to detail is also present in their ocean-focused menu choices and extensive international wine offerings. 

Plan your festive getaway with Shore Summer Rentals