We love the holiday season. It brings so much love, gatherings with family and friends, lights, shopping and so much more. I wanted to share some traditions and fun things for you and your family to do this holiday season!
Local Fun
Monmouth County
1.PNC Bank Arts Center- Magic of Lights
Magic of Lights is a dazzling, drive-through holiday lights experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations. Experience the Magic of Lights from the comfort and safety of your own car as you wind through the sparkling path of New Jersey’s favorite holiday tradition.
When: Nov. 18-Dec 30th, 2022
Where: PNC Bank Arts Center | Holmdel NJ
2. Charlie Brown’s Christmas Show, A Christmas Carol, & Holiday Express
Check out some Holiday classics this season at the Count Basie Theatre. Who doesn’t love a good classic?! Enjoy these local shows this Christmas.
When: View their Website for Available Dates and Tickets
Where: Count Basie Theatre
3. Red Bank Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade
One of the most magical things to do during the holiday season is to light up your Christmas Tree. Celebrate the official start of the holiday season at the 30th Annual Town Lighting and Holiday Express Concert, Friday, November 25th in Red Bank. I absolutely love this, you can feel so much magic and holiday spirit in the air.
When: November 25th
Where: Broad St, Red Bank NJ
4. Holiday Bazaar at Asbury Park
Looking for unique gifts this holiday season?! Check out the holiday bazaar in Asbury Park. The 2022 Holiday Bazaar will showcase handcrafted goods and unique holiday gifts by local and regional artisans, holiday music and entertainment, food & libations, craft workshops, kids activities, festive décor, entertainment, and more.
When: Black Friday, Nov 25th & Every Sat & Sun, Nov 26-Dec 18, 12-5 PM
Where: 1300 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park, NJ
5. Ann Ellen Christmas Tree Farm
This is your perfect Christmas Destination! Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm has been a Christmas tradition for families since the first tree was planted on our farm over 80 years ago.
When: November 12-Jan 1, 2022 | Monday-Sunday
Where: Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm, Manalapan
Ocean County
1. Tom’s River Tree Lighting
The Tom’s River Tree lighting is one of my favorite holiday experiences right in our own backyard. It is part of Tom’s River’s Winter Wonderland Weekend! The tree lighting has live entertainment and photos with Santa for the kids.
When: December 2nd | 5pm-7pm
Where: Down Town Toms River
2. Point Pleasant Boardwalk
Join Jenkinson’s Aquarium on the boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach for the annual Sea of Lights Holiday Festival on December 15, 16, 22, 23 & 26-30 from 6 pm – 9 pm. Join Jenkinson’s in Point Pleasant Beach as they light up the Boardwalk during Jenkinson’s Sea of Lights. This Indoor Holidays Lights Spectacular inside Jenkinson’s Aquarium is a real gift to your family at the special admission price of only $8. Sea of Lights will be held on December 15, 16, and 22, 23, 26-30 from 6 pm until 9pm.
The Sweet Shop, Aquarium Gift Shop, and Pavilion Arcade will be open! Crafts, Holiday Treats, Photos with Santa & friends, Games, Holiday Gifts and more!
When: December 15, 16, 22, 23 & 26-30 | 6 pm – 9 pm.
Where: Jenkinson’s in Point Pleasant
Day Trips with the Kids
Day Trips For Everyone
If you’re really in the Christmas Spirit take a trip to some of these magical Christmas Hot Spots in New York and Pennsylvania!
New York City
- Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree– Truly a Must See in my opinion
- The Radio City Rockettes
- Bryant Park Winter Village
Pennsylvania
- A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens
- Christmas Village in Philadelphia
- Tinseltown Holiday Spectacular
No matter where you go or what you do this holiday season the important thing is to spend it with those you love. We can’t wait to hear about some of your favorite holiday activities this season. Warm Wishes!
