Get ready for a fantastic holiday season here in New Jersey! With this guide, you can see everything our state has to offer — from sipping hot apple cider at a holiday parade to hanging out at a craft fair at your favorite off-season beach.
The NJspots team has put together some of the best fairs and festivals for the holiday season right here in New Jersey. Browse through the state’s various regions and pick your favorite ones to attend!
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The holiday season is upon us. From the Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar to the only Traditional German Christmas Market in the State, the ways to get out and enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the season are endless. But not to worry! From North to South, along the shore, and everywhere in between, we have compiled THE list of the top not to miss holiday fairs in New Jersey.
Weihnachtsmarkt German Christmas Market
Sussex County Fairgrounds
December 2nd-4th
Admission- Adults $10- Kids 12 and under free *This event is not dog friendly, so, unfortunately, the pup needs to stay home for this one*
Experience the largest and only traditional German Christmas market in New Jersey spread out over the vast Sussex county fairgrounds. With over 100 vendors offering tasty eats, handmade crafts, and unique gifts, there is so much to see and do at this one. Don’t forget to sample some german holiday foods from traditional-style wooden huts, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, and even get a photo with an ice sculpture. A very cool side note; All proceeds from this market are distributed to various charities in the community so you can have a fantastic day out and support a good cause.
Hoboken Winter Outdoor Artisan Market Hoboken
Hoboken under 14th St Viaduct
Dec 4th, 11th, & 18th
Admission: Free
Explore all the holiday delight under the Viaduct in downtown Hoboken and find that perfect gift. This is a great place to shop small for those hard-to-find gifts or something unique from one of the over 100 local vendors. From handmade jewelry, beauty & bath products, fine art, pet products, and so much more! After you have finished shopping, stay and enjoy the live music playing all your favorite holiday tunes. This event is pet friendly; you can even get your favorite fur friend a picture with Santa to benefit wise animal rescue.
Stay warmer this season with hand warmers!
Festival of Trees & Winter Village Market
The Red Mill Museum Village
Saturdays & Sundays Dec 3-18
Admission- Advanced tickets 13yrs and up $10, Children 6yrs-12yrs and Seniors $8,
Children Under 6 and Military Veterans and their families are Free
Grab a hot drink and enjoy a wander through the decorated trees at the Red Mill Museum Village grounds. For 13 years local businesses, community members, and organizations in the Clinton area have been designing and decorating these gorgeous trees amid the historic buildings. Be sure to stop by the german style holiday market for some festive treats and live holiday music.
BUT! The fun doesn’t stop there! Be sure to stroll through downtown Clinton to experience all the holiday cheer. Don’t miss the Christmas parade on December 2nd, Candlelight Night on December 15th, and Santa Arrives on December 18th! These events are all free admission.
Christmas Lights
Holiday Showcase
Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar
Asbury Park Boardwalk – the Grand Arcade of Convention Hall & The Asbury Hotel.
Double up on the holiday magic with this 2-for-1 event across two locations in Asbury Park!
Grand Arcade of Convention Hall
Saturday & Sunday November 26th – December 18th
Admission-Free
Relish in the festive atmosphere at the historic convention center and browse the holiday wears from the best of local artists, craftsmen, and designers. Fuel up for your day of holiday fun at one (or two) of the german Christmas market-style food stalls. This event also features live music and photos with Santa: Don’t forget to bring a toy for the holiday toy drive!
The Asbury Hotel
Sundays November 27th – December 18th
Admission- Free
After experiencing all the festivities at the convention hall, stroll to the Asbury Hotel for more holiday fun. Get your camera ready to take that picture-perfect photo at the immersive photo station. A rotating list of DJs will be playing all your favorite holiday tunes in the hotel lounge, hall, and under the heated tent. Be sure to register for one of the craft workshops and create your handcrafted holiday gift!
