Merry and Bright: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Holiday Lights in New Jersey

For Emma and her son Louis, this season is about making treasured memories while celebrating the holidays. They have established a family custom of discovering the state's top holiday events and dazzling light displays. New surprises, fits of laughter, and opportunities to bond as a family are all part of their annual experience. If, like Emma, you want to make your children happy and full of wonder, New Jersey has plenty of seasonal activities that will make your family's holiday bright. Everyone, especially children, can enjoy the variety of events offered, including drive-through spectacles and humorous tree lighting. 

If you're planning to make this season extra special, here’s your guide to the top holiday light displays and festive events in New Jersey for 2024. Let’s dive into the magic! 

Location: Bergen County Zoo, Paramus

Dates: November 7 - January 12

Allow your family to discover a mystical realm lighted by elaborate lanterns shaped like animals. Both parents and children love this amazing event, which creates a fanciful atmosphere for celebrating the season together. 

Location: Freehold Raceway Mall 

Dates: November 15 - January 5

Enter a world of imaginative light sculptures that turn the Freehold Raceway Mall into a luminous work of art. This is a must-see for families hoping to get in the holiday spirit, and it's ideal for family portraits and breathtaking walks. 

Location: Storybook Land, Egg Harbor Township 

Dates: November 16 - December 30 

With more than a million lights creating a stunning fantasy realm, Storybook Land will transport your family into a Christmas fairytale. Children will never forget the moment they watch Santa flip the switch to illuminate the entire park. 

Location: Princeton 

Dates: November 20 - January 5 

Enter the ancient Morven Museum to see beautifully adorned winter trees during a Festival of Trees. This event is a unique family adventure since it blends history, art, and festive cheer. 

Location: West Orange 

Dates: November 22 - December 31 

Cost: FREE 

Discover the colorful holiday lights that decorate Turtle Back Zoo's walkways. In addition to being free, this family-friendly event is jam-packed with chances for unforgettable family experiences. 

Location: Hillsdale 

Dates: November 22 - December 29 

Enjoy the sparkling lights against a quiet rural environment as you drive through Demarest Farms' Orchard of Lights. It is an experience that combines the peace of nature with the thrill of the holidays. 

Location: Smithville 

Dates: Thursdays through Sundays, November 28 - January 5 

Cost: FREE 

Stroll through the charming Historic Smithville and witness a spectacular light show synchronized with holiday music. This quaint setting is perfect for an evening of holiday joy. 

Location: East Brunswick 

Dates: November 29 - December 31 

Stay cozy in your car as you drive through a dazzling display of synchronized lights and music. It’s the perfect outing for families with little ones who love the magic of lights without braving the cold. 

Location: Caldwell-West Essex 

Date: December 8 

Wander through fully furnished homes that each have a unique holiday tale to tell. While taking in the festive ambiance, this neighborhood-driven event is a terrific way to meet new neighbors. 

Location: LEGOLAND Discovery Center, American Dream Mall 

This holiday event is an absolute dream for LEGO fans. Allow your children to construct, play, and explore a LEGO wonderland with a festive theme. 

Location: Augusta 

Enjoy a memorable evening of holiday fun by exploring the small Christmas Village and driving through a breathtaking light show at Skylands Stadium. 

Travel to Whippany and take a spectacular train trip on The Polar Express. While you enjoy holiday readings, hot chocolate, and festive music, let your children feel the excitement of meeting Santa. 

Location: Morristown 

Bring the family to Morristown's center for a holiday celebration that includes live music, tree lighting, and fun events for kids of all ages. 

Visit the famous Ringwood Manor for a Victorian Christmas tour and travel back in time. Families will love this celebration of history and holiday spirit, which is adorned with antique decorations. 

Location: Bronx Zoo 

Explore the Bronx Zoo's breathtaking holiday light displays. It's a special way to blend a love for animals with the happiness of the season. 

Make lasting memories 

The charm of a Victorian Christmas tour, the excitement of a drive-thru light show, or the soft glow of a lantern—New Jersey offers it all. The moments spent together—the delight of being together, the wonder, and the laughter—are what Emma and Louis believe make these occasions magical. 

Start your family journey this Holiday season. Make treasured memories with your loved ones while taking in New Jersey greatest holiday lights and activities. Find more blogs like this on Wondrfly.com . Together, we can create a truly fantastic holiday season!