The holiday season is officially here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than experiencing a festive holiday light show or display right here in New Jersey. Lucky for you, there are plenty of great holiday light shows in New Jersey for 2025. From theatrical light displays to Christmas theme parks, we’ve made it easy for you this year. Here are the must-see holiday light displays in New Jersey this year.
Christmas House Freehold
Dates: November 28 – December 31
This immersive Christmas experience is perfect for the whole family. Embark on a 45-minute walk through of one of the most magical Christmas displays you’ve ever seen. With plenty of activities and events to choose from, it’s everything you love about the holiday, all in one place. Buy your tickets here.
3710 US-9, Freehold, NJ 07728
Christmas In Cape May
Dates and times vary
Cape May’s Victorian charm is the perfect backdrop for a Christmas village that will make you feel like you’ve entered a different world. One with storybook displays, plenty of lights and tons of family-friendly Christmas attractions. Find out more information here.
Christmas StoryBook Land
Dates and times vary
This family-run holiday theme park will transport you to the Christmas stories of your youth. Enjoy 15 fun rides and regular interactions with Santa Claus himself. Christmas StoryBook Land is easily one of the best family Christmas activities in NJ. Tickets and more information can be found here.
DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express
Dates: November 15 – December 23
Experience an unforgettable train ride through millions—yes, millions—of Christmas lights. Over two million to be exact! DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express brings the magic of Christmas to life with visits from Mr. Claus and his elves, lights and plenty more. Purchase tickets here.
Historic Smithville Holiday Light Show
Dates: November 27 – January 6
Over 100 Christmas trees float on the water at the Historic Smithville Holiday Light Show. Watch in awe as thousands of lights reflect off the water, backdropped by the dark night sky. It’s the perfect activity for those with a true eye for the details… and a love for Christmas, of course. Buy your tickets here.
Let It Glow! at the Bergen County Zoo
Dates: November 6 – January 11
The Bergen County zoo returns for the famous Let It Glow light show. Get right into the Christmas spirit with dozens of glowing animal lanterns, activities and more. FInd out more information and purchase tickets here.
Magic of Lights PNC Bank Arts Center
Dates: November 22 – January 4
This drive-through lights excursion is a fan favorite in Holmdel. Enjoy the magic of the holidays from the comfort of your car. Thousands flock to PNC Bank Arts Center each year for the Magic of Lights Festival, so don’t miss it! Tickets can be bought here.
Newark Winter Village
Dates and times vary
The beloved Newark Winter Village is back for the Christmas season. Downtown Newark transforms into a storybook village overnight for this holiday classic. Winter bumper karts, local food and plenty of Christmas lights. Check out ticket information here.
Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms
Dates: November 22 – December 30
Demarest Farms isn’t just for cider… they also put on one of the best Christmas displays in all of the Garden State. Enjoy the comfort of your car on a 32-acre journey through the magic of Christmas. When you’re done, grab hot cocoa and other goodies at the farmers market. Find out more here.
Skyland Stadium’s Light Show
Dates: November 22 – December 30
A mile-long drive presents a breathtaking display of Christmas lights and cheer. After it’s all over, take a walk through the Christmas village to complete the evening. Buy your tickets here.
Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights Spectacular
Dates: November 28 – January 3
This unforgettable holiday light show is sure to impress the whole family! Turtle Back Zoo returns with its Holiday Lights Spectacular. See how Christmas and wildlife converge at this must-see display of holiday magic. Find out more and purchase tickets here.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.