The Best Christmas Light Displays in New Jersey: Top Spots to Visit in 2024
Updated: Nov 15
The holiday season is a magical time in New Jersey, and one of the best ways to celebrate is by visiting the state's spectacular Christmas light displays. From massive drive-through light shows to cozy Christmas villages, New Jersey has something for everyone when it comes to holiday lights. If you're looking for festive fun, here are the top places to see Christmas lights in New Jersey this December.
1. Skylands Stadium Christmas Light Show & Village (Augusta, NJ)
Location: Augusta, NJ
Dates: November 22 – December 30, 2024
Why You Should Go:
The Skylands Stadium Christmas Light Show is a mile-long drive-through light display featuring over 2 million dazzling lights. This festive attraction is perfect for families and couples looking for a magical evening in their cars. After the light show, visitors can explore the Christmas Village, where you can go ice skating, sip hot cocoa, roast s'mores by the fire pits, and even meet Santa. It’s an immersive experience that will make your holiday season even brighter
2. DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express (Hammonton, NJ)
Location: Hammonton, NJ
Dates: November 17 – December 23, 2024
Why You Should Go:
DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express combines a charming holiday train ride with millions of Christmas lights. The train travels through a beautifully decorated Christmas wonderland, complete with stops to visit Santa and his elves. The whole family will enjoy the festive atmosphere, holiday treats, and meeting Santa himself. This is one of New Jersey’s most beloved Christmas events
3. Magic of Lights at PNC Bank Arts Center (Holmdel, NJ)
Location: Holmdel, NJ
Dates: November 17 – December 30, 2024
Why You Should Go:
The Magic of Lights at PNC Bank Arts Center is a popular drive-through display featuring holiday scenes like Toyland, a snowflake tunnel, and a larger-than-life Nativity scene. Visitors can tune into holiday music on the radio while driving through this dazzling display of over 1 million lights. It’s perfect for a cozy night out with the family, and you can enjoy all the lights from the warmth of your car
4. Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms (Hillsdale, NJ)
Location: Hillsdale, NJ
Dates: November 22 – December 29, 2024
Why You Should Go:
Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms offers a 32-acre drive-through light display filled with holiday magic. After exploring the lights, you can warm up by the fire pits with s'mores, shop for holiday treats, and take pictures with Santa. This event combines the festive beauty of Christmas lights with the charm of a winter farm setting, making it a perfect family outing
5. Winter WonderLights (East Brunswick, NJ)
Location: East Brunswick, NJ
Dates: November 24 – December 31, 2024
Why You Should Go:
Known as New Jersey’s largest animated holiday light show, Winter WonderLights features over 1.5 million lights synchronized to holiday music. This half-mile-long drive-through event celebrates multiple holidays, including Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali, and Kwanzaa. The spectacular light displays, including tunnels and trees lit in vibrant colors, make this event a must-see for light lovers
6. Christmas Fantasy with Lights at Storybook Land (Egg Harbor, NJ)
Location: Egg Harbor Township, NJ
Dates: November 18 – December 30, 2024
Why You Should Go:
Storybook Land transforms into a magical Christmas scene every year, complete with over a million lights. Santa himself kicks off the season by lighting up the park, and visitors can enjoy the park's rides and attractions while basking in the glow of holiday lights. It’s a family-friendly event that combines amusement park fun with the holiday spirit
7. Light Show on the Lake at Historic Smithville (Smithville, NJ)
Location: Smithville, NJ
Dates: November 23, 2024 – January 6, 2025
Why You Should Go:
For a more serene Christmas light display, visit Historic Smithville to see the Light Show on the Lake. Over 120 Christmas trees, made of over 50,000 lights, float on Lake Meone. The lights are synchronized to holiday music, creating a peaceful and beautiful display. Visitors can also explore the charming village filled with unique shops and eateries, making it an ideal holiday outing
8. Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Great Adventure (Jackson, NJ)
Location: Jackson, NJ
Dates: Select dates from November 24 – January 1, 2025
Why You Should Go:
Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Great Adventure offers a unique combination of holiday cheer and thrilling rides. The park is decked out in millions of lights, with themed areas like Gingerbread Junction and Merry Market Place. Visitors can enjoy holiday shows, festive food, and even meet Santa. It’s a great option for families looking to combine amusement park fun with holiday festivities.
9. Holiday Lights at the Turtle Back Zoo (West Orange, NJ)
Location: West Orange, NJ
Dates: Select dates from November 24, 2024 – January 1, 2025
Why You Should Go:
The Turtle Back Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season with its enchanting Holiday Lights event. Visitors can stroll through the zoo illuminated by over 1 million sparkling lights, featuring themed displays, life-sized animal sculptures, and holiday decor. While you're there, enjoy festive snacks like hot cocoa and cookies and meet Santa on select nights. The event also supports local charities, making it a magical way to give back while celebrating the season. Perfect for families, couples, or friends, this event combines the beauty of Christmas lights with the charm of wildlife.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the zoo's festive transformation and make unforgettable holiday memories!
Pro Tip: Arrive early for the best parking and to avoid crowds on peak nights. Admission is free, but donations of non-perishable food items, toys, or gently used coats are encouraged to support local drives.
From drive-through light shows to festive villages, New Jersey offers a variety of Christmas light displays that will fill you with holiday cheer. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the lights from your car or want to stroll through a festive village, these top locations are sure to make your December magical. Be sure to visit one—or all—of these enchanting light shows this holiday season!
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