Things To Do in New Jersey This Weekend: December 5-December 7
Holiday magic is alive and well in New Jersey, bringing along cherished seasonal traditions in early December and lots of holiday cheer.
Holiday magic is alive and well in New Jersey, bringing along cherished seasonal traditions in early December and lots of holiday cheer. From the small-town wonderland in Morristown to the enchanting seaside lights of Cape May, along with a symphonic take on a contemporary Christmas favorite, the state has a warm-hearted and joyous collection of experiences for families, friends, and holiday lovers alike.
Christmas Festival at the Morristown Green
- What: A charming small-town winter wonderland
- When: Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 6, and Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, from noon to 7 p.m.
- Where: Morristown Green, 10 N. Park Place, Morristown
- Cost: Free admission; $15 for photos with Santa
Join the vibrant Christmas Festival at the Morristown Green for a nostalgic celebration where downtown Morristown transforms into a festive wonderland. Families can enjoy visits with Santa, holiday crafts, ice-sculpture demonstrations, and miniature train rides beneath thousands of twinkling lights. The longtime outdoor tradition shines within the historic charm of the village green, offering warmth, magic, and seasonal joy for all ages.
Tree Lighting Ceremony at Congress Hall
- What: A magical Cape May tree illumination
- When: Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Where: Congress Hall, 200 Congress Place, Cape May
- Cost: Free to attend
Congress Hall's Grand Lawn transforms into a festive Winter Wonderland complete with a 30-foot Christmas tree, the charming Carousel, holiday train rides on the Congress Hall Express, and an Enchanted Vendor Village filled with twinkling tents and seasonal gifts. Among the holiday festivities is the beloved Tree Lighting Ceremony, where guests gather for live music from the Festival Choir and the joyful moment the towering tree is illuminated.
Elf in Concert
- What: A joyful live-orchestra movie experience
- When: Saturday, Dec. 6, and Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, at 2 p.m.
- Where: New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, 1 Center St., Newark (Saturday), and Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank, 99 Monmouth St., Red Bank (Sunday)
- Cost: Tickets start at $46
The New Jersey Symphony Orchestra presents "Elf in Concert." Experience the beloved holiday film projected onto a giant screen while the orchestra performs John Debney's complete score live. Guests enjoy a festive pre-concert lobby experience with Yuletide carolers and are encouraged to contribute to a food drive that benefits the Community FoodBank of New Jersey.
Other Events
New Jersey's early December lineup blends big-league excitement with enchanting holiday experiences across the state. From spirited hockey action to dazzling light displays on foot and by car, these events offer a festive mix of energy, atmosphere, and seasonal magic for visitors and families:
- New Jersey Devils vs. Las Vegas Golden Knights: Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Prudential Center, 25 Lafayette St., Newark
- Light Show on the Lake: Friday, Dec. 5, and Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Historic Smithville, 615 E. Moss Mill Road, Galloway
- Winter WonderLights 6th Annual Holiday Light Show Drive-Thru: Friday, Dec. 5 through Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. (additional dates available through Dec. 28, 2025) at Winter WonderLights, 655 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick
