A bucket list helps you make the most out of life, why not try a holiday bucket list to help you make the most out of the Christmas season? There’s so much to enjoy in the Garden State, see how much fun you can fit in before Santa comes.
1. Enjoy an old-fashioned Christmas in Cape May.
This charming Victorian shore resort still thrives in the winter. Check out a holiday show, candlelight home tour or magical holiday lights trolley tour when you're in town. Don't forget to stop by the Washington Street Mall for great gifts.
2. Visit Bergen County's Winter Wonderland.
Located at Van Saun Park in Paramus, enjoy ice skating, zoo admission, train and carousel access and more.
3. Head to Ocean City for free horse and carriage rides on December 17-18.
Does your town offer free horse and carriage rides? Let me know in the comments. Ocean City also offers breakfast with Santa and the Very Ocean City Christmas holiday show.
4. Take the kids to Fairfield's magical Christmas Ice Caverns.
Or, take the adults. Either way, it's a good time. For just $3.99, enjoy the largest walk-through animated Christmas display in New Jersey. It's a whopping 10,000 square feet of festive scenes.
5. Indulge in holiday treats at the best chocolate shop in America.
Chocodiem's holiday pop up shop is located just across from the Red Mill on the Raritan River in Clinton. You'll find their famous pearl truffles (delicious and a visual delight) along with other sweet treats.
6. See a Sea Of Lights at Jenkinson's Aquarium.
This indoor light show is a true gift. The cost is just $7, and that INCLUDES aquarium admission. Enjoy costumed characters, a scuba diving Santa and more. Dates are December 16, 17, 26-28. Adventure Aquarium in Camden will also be decked out in lights for Christmas, hosting a scuba Santa and other special events. The decorations are sure to delight.
7. Delight in a FREE holiday lights display.
Of course, donations are always welcome. A few of my favorites include the Holiday Lights Spectacular at Turtle Back Zoo (West Orange), Christmas Spectacular on Main Street (Cranbury) and Light Show on the Lake (Historic Smithville).
8. Celebrate with thrills, chills and holiday cheer at Six Flags.
A fairly new event, Holiday In The Park offers an adventurous Christmas experience. In addition to a wide selection of light displays and shows, select rides (including Batman, the roller coaster) will be open for the season.
9. Take a lantern tour of the Historic Village at Allaire.
Enjoy the stunning buildings while learning about Christmastime in 1836. These 90-minutes tours are a charming way to celebrate the holiday. Located in Farmingdale, upcoming dates are December 16th and 17th.
10. Hop aboard a holiday train ride.
New Jersey has a variety of incredible options, but many sell out well in advance. At press time, tickets are still available for Black River & Western Railroad's Candy Cane Limited on 12/18 and 12/23.
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