There’s No Place Like My Hometown of Woodbridge, New Jersey, for the Holidays

I look forward to this time of year all year. It's not just that I love it when the weather gets cold - the bugs are gone and I can always put on another layer - but the seasonal festivities are always worth checking out. This is especially the case for my hometown of Woodbridge, New Jersey. The town is known for a very engaged social scene and a mayor who goes all out for local pride. That means events here are always impressive, and Christmas in Woodbridge, New Jersey, might be the best time of the year. You can expect plenty of beautiful lights, parades, local festivals, and fun events to explore in the township and the easily accessible surrounding area. As soon as Thanksgiving ends, it'll be time to slip into full holiday mode, so here's a preview of all we have to look forward to.

The heart of Woodbridge's holiday season is the Barron Arts Center, which will soon be home to a host of holiday events, including a food drive, a tree lighting, and a beautiful light parade. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand, and a bazaar of vendors selling local goods is the perfect place to find your first holiday gifts. While you're in town, Woodbridge's amazing dining scene is great for an early holiday dinner. Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal at the Reo Diner or a luxury night out at Strickland's Steakhouse, the odds are good that these acclaimed restaurants will have a little extra holiday festivity planned. A short distance away, you can also look forward to plenty of holiday events at the Woodbridge Community Center (for members).

One of my favorite things about Woodbridge is its proximity to other towns. I grew up between two malls less than two miles apart. If you're spending Christmas in Woodbridge, New Jersey, you owe it to yourself to visit Roosevelt Park in Edison. This charming county park is home to Plays in the Park, a beloved summer theater event, but surprisingly, it comes back to life for two days in December. The park's annual performances of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat might just be the hottest ticket in town.

Have you celebrated the holiday season in Woodbridge, New Jersey? If you haven't, see what events work for you and tell a friend! If you're coming from a little further away and plan on making a two-day trip of it, the Delta Hotels by Marriott Woodbridge is our most central hotel and is easy walking distance from Woodbridge Centre and the area's first Spirit Christmas store.