The 10 Most Magical Christmas Towns in New Jersey

There's no denying that the holiday season is a magical time to visit New Jersey. Whether you're a local or visiting from out of town, the Garden State is chock-full of magical light displays, Christmas parades, carriage rides, and Santa sightings to go around. There's something for everyone—including children or children at heart.

While most small towns in New Jersey offer something special each winter, there are a few that truly stand out. Here are the most magical Christmas towns to visit in New Jersey, where it's hard not to feel the holiday spirit.

1. Cape May

There's no place quite like Cape May, New Jersey, during the holidays. Take a trolley tour to see twinkling lights or a candlelit house tour of local estates decked out for the season. You can also enjoy the West Cape May Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 6, Hospitality Nights at the Washington Street Mall on Friday, December 12, special appearances by Santa throughout town, and the show Let's Catch Santa at the Cape May Stage until December 28th.

2. Ocean City

Ocean City, New Jersey, is a family-friendly shore town that does the holiday season right. Enjoy free horse and carriage rides, Christmas trolley rides, breakfast with Santa, a Christmas Parade down Asbury Avenue on Friday, December 5 at 6 p.m., and Festive Fridays on December 12, which leads visitors through the brilliantly decorated downtown to shop at Ocean City merchants. Plus, the boardwalk and amusement park rides are still open and ready to enjoy!

3. Morristown

Morristown, New Jersey, is a beautiful place to visit during the holidays. There are so many historical buildings to see—like the Ford Mansion, Macculloch Hall, Stickley Museum, and more—which are typically decked out in garland and lights for the holidays. Morristown also celebrates with Christmas on the Green from November to December 21, featuring ice sculpture demonstrations, rides, hot cocoa, and visits with Santa.

4. Princeton

Head to Palmer Square in Princeton, New Jersey, for the Christmas tree lighting and enjoy the Holiday Strolling Entertainment every Saturday and Sunday with the kids (until December 21). Enjoy learning about Palmer Square's history, taking in the sounds of carolers, and learning about reindeer. Other Princeton events include the Festival of Trees at Morven Museum from November 19 to January 11, and The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol at McCarter Theatre. Show dates and ticket prices vary—see the theater's website for details.

5. Freehold

There are plenty of things to do during the holidays in the charming town of Freehold, New Jersey. Start with breakfast or brunch with Santa at Sweet Lew's Cafe or the American Hotel. Then take in the tree lighting near the downtown area, or ride the Jolly Trolley to see all the beautiful lights and decorations. Carolers will be serenading you along the way. You won't regret a weekend or day trip to this festive town.

6. Red Bank

Red Bank, New Jersey, is filled with holiday fun during this season. Take part in the Red Bank Elf Scavenger Hunt from November to December 21 for a chance to win prizes. Then, enjoy unique window displays, hop on a free horse-drawn wagon, come for the tree lighting, and choose from a selection of holiday shows at the Count Basie Theatre. Don't miss the Santa Parade that marches through downtown, which is sure to bring holiday cheer. (You might even catch some "bad Santas" wandering around at local pubs.)

7. Chester

Chester, New Jersey, has several family-owned farms, which often have holiday celebrations for everyone to enjoy. Alstede Farms, for instance, has Brunch with Santa and Christmas tree cuttings, complete with hot cocoa, delicious sweet treats, and tons of magical holiday decor throughout December. Or, watch ice sculptures being made, enjoy strolling carolers, or catch the "Holiday Helpers," who give away gift certificates downtown.

8. Ocean Grove

The downtown area of Ocean Grove, New Jersey, always looks so festive during this time of year. After visiting charming storefronts and restaurants, join the Victorian Holiday House & Inn Tour on December 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event features a Christmas tree lighting, live nativity pageant, caroling, and tours of local inns, homes, and tents decorated for the holidays. You might even see a nutcracker or two standing guard in the tents.

9. West Orange

West Orange, New Jersey, has tons of family-friendly holiday events to choose from. Join the free Holiday Lights Spectacular at the Turtle Back Zoo on select dates until January 3, and stroll through the historic Llewellyn Park to see holiday decor adorning historical landmarks like Thomas Edison's house.

Downtown West Orange also has a fun Christmas Gnome Roam event (2025 dates to be announced). This town is truly the perfect place to enjoy the holidays on a budget. There are even some thrift stores that have great holiday sales!

10. Fairfield

The homes in Fairfield, New Jersey, are always decked out for Christmas, featuring thousands of twinkling string lights, garland, inflatables, and more. Head downtown to the Fairfield Municipal Alliance's Winter Wonderland, taking place Saturday, December 13, for a family-friendly event featuring an iceless ice skating rink, bounce houses, food trucks, horse and carriage rides, and more.

Where's your favorite holiday celebration in New Jersey? If you're still undecided, visit these magical towns or drive by the most iconic light displays in the Garden State. Out-of-towners can plan a trip using Only In Your State's itinerary planner for specific lodging, dining, and sightseeing recommendations.