The holiday season is the perfect time to gather your loved ones and embrace the spirit of the season with some family fun Christmas activities. Whether you’re exploring dazzling light displays, hopping on festive train rides, or visiting Santa’s workshops, New Jersey offers countless opportunities to create magical memories. From small-town parades to grand holiday festivals, these events bring joy to kids and adults alike. Dive into our guide for the best family fun Christmas experiences in your area and make this holiday season truly unforgettable!

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  1. PNC Bank Arts Center Magic of Lights (Holmdel, NJ)
    A drive-through holiday light experience featuring themed displays like “Toyland” and “Christmas Around the World.” Open daily through January 4, 2025.
  2. Winter WonderLights Drive-Thru (East Brunswick, NJ)
    A dazzling display of over 1.5 million lights synchronized to music, featuring tunnels of lights and animated scenes. Open daily through January 2, 2025.
  3. Fanwood’s Famous Christmas House (Fanwood, NJ)
    A stunning 30,000-light display. Donations are accepted to benefit the NJ Institute for Disabilities. Open nightly through January 8, 2025.
  4. Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights (West Orange, NJ)
    Stroll through more than 50 winter and animal-themed illuminated displays. Santa will make select appearances. Open on specific dates through December 31, 2024.
  5. Festival of Trees at Morven Museum & Garden (Princeton, NJ)
    Explore beautifully decorated trees, mantels, and porches. Open daily during museum hours through January 5, 2025.
  6. Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops (Atlantic City, NJ)
    Free photos with Santa and holiday activities. Open daily through December 24, 2024. Reservations are required.
  7. Christmas Festival at the Morristown Green (Morristown, NJ)
    A festival featuring crafts, train rides, and visits with Santa. Runs through December 22, 2024.
  8. Sea of Lights at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk (Point Pleasant, NJ)
    Includes a holiday lights display, visits with Santa, and storytime with Mrs. Claus. Select dates: December 14, 21, and 22, 2024.
  9. DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express (Hammonton, NJ)
    A festive train ride through Christmas lights with opportunities to meet Santa and enjoy holiday treats. Runs through December 23, 2024.
  10. Holiday Model Train Show (Woodbridge, NJ)
    A delightful exhibit of model trains, now in its 31st year. Open daily through December 30, 2024.
  11. The Polar Express Train Ride (Whippany, NJ)
    A magical train ride based on the beloved story, featuring hot chocolate, cookies, and a keepsake sleigh bell for kids. Select dates through December 30, 2024.
  12. Storybook Land Christmas Fantasy with Lights (Egg Harbor Township, NJ)
    See Storybook Land transform into a magical holiday wonderland with Santa lighting the park at dusk. Runs select dates through December 30, 2024.
  13. Skylands Stadium Christmas Light Show (Augusta, NJ)
    Drive through a one-mile dazzling light show with over two million lights, then explore the Christmas Village with food, crafts, and Santa appearances. Open through December 30, 2024.
  14. Holiday Light Show on Lake Meone (Smithville, NJ)
    A mesmerizing free light show with floating Christmas trees and music, running nightly through January 6, 2025.
  15. Somerset County Park Festival of Trees (Bridgewater, NJ)
    View beautifully decorated trees designed by community groups in an indoor exhibit, open through December 29, 2024.

These events offer a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, many of which are free or low-cost. Be sure to check for specific times and ticket requirements, as some events may require advance booking.