Taylor Dennis 
Fa, la, la, la, light show! The time we’ve all been waiting for is here, holiday time in New Jersey. With cold days ahead, it’s nice to spread some holiday cheer with some dazzling light shows. Read on to learn about 15 holiday light shows you can see this winter season.
Winter WonderLights | 655 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick
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Winter WonderLights, the largest animated light show in Jersey, has over two million animated lights, sparkling tunnels, themed displays like snowflakes and candy canes. Since the days have been cooler and the nights even colder, this is a great way to spend some time in the warm car while looking at a gorgeous, unique light show. This show is suitable for all ages. Winter Wonderlights will be operating everyday from 5:30PM to 10PM, November 21st through December 28th. Click here to find out more, purchase tickets, and check out operating hours.
Let It Glow | 216 Forest Avenue, Paramus
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Let it Glow is a holiday lantern spectacular. This event, located at the Bergen County Zoo, features over 40 new scenes of larger-than-life animals, a train ride, s’mores kits, and a fire pit to help keep you warm. This is an all-ages event and runs from November 6th through January 11th. Click here to find out more information and purchase tickets.
Read More: A Guide to Celebrating the Holidays in Ocean Grove
Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms | 244 Wierimus Road, Hillsdale
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Orchard Lights at Demarest Farms offers a drive-thru experience spanning over 32 acres. This 25-minute tour shows off their magical light show filled with various displays and music. After the tour, you can head into the farm market to enjoy some sweet treats, keep warm by the fire pit, make s’mores, and take pictures with Santa. This light show runs from November 22nd to December 30th. Tickets must be purchased ahead of time online. Click here to learn more.
Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights Spectacular | 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange
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Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights Spectacular is a free holiday light show with over 50 winter and animal characters. Turtle Back Zoo will also have a carousel, face painting, touch tanks, pony track, reptile house, and a farm. On specific days, Santa will visit the zoo to take photos with children and families. Some other special events happening include ice carving demonstrations, princess holiday appearances, Grinch weekend, and the option to rent Igloos to sit and enjoy some food and drink while keeping warm. While admission is free, Turtle Back Zoo asks people to donate non-perishable foods, gently used coats, and new toys. The show runs from November 21st through January 3rd, times vary, so be sure to check out the website for more information.
Christmas House | Freehold Raceway Mall, Freehold
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The Christmas House is an indoor, fully immersive experience as you walk through over 45 minutes of holiday-themed rooms. This year, some rooms they have are a first-ever snow room, a North Pole movie room, a light show, a tropical Christmas room, and a Nightmare Before Christmas room, just to name a few. Christmas House is an unforgettable experience, fun for the whole family, including your pups. To find out more information and purchase tickets, check out the website.
Magic of Lights | 116 Garden State Parkway, Holmdel
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Magic of Lights is a glittering drive-thru experience featuring a ton of holiday scenes, favorite seasonal characters, all in the comfort of your warm car. Some days include special musical performances like the Mazel Grove Band and Crowfield Band. At the end, there’s a holiday village, photos with Santa, ice skating and refreshments. Magic of Lights runs from November 21st to January 3rd. Check out the website to learn more.
DiDonto’s Magical Holiday Express | 151 S. White Horse Pike, Hammonton
DiDonto’s Magical Holiday Express transports passengers through millions of Christmas lights, the chance to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, travel through the elves’ workshops, and much more. This unique Polar Express vibes experience is fun for all ages. After the train ride, visitors will be able to walk through a winter village, shop around, enjoy milk and cookies, and take photos with Santa. To learn more about this great tradition, visit the website.
See More: 5 Hoboken + Jersey City Bars Going All Out for the Holidays (Yes, Already)
Skylands Stadium Light Show & Christmas Village | 94 Championship Place, Augusta
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The Skyland Stadium Light Show & Christmas village runs from November 22nd through January 3rd and includes a spectacular drive-thru mile-long light show. After the light show, stick around for some more holiday fun at the Festive Christmas Village, shop with local vendors, enjoy delicious food and drinks, take a photo with Santa, and line up for some carnival rides. You can even end your night with dinner and drinks at The Barnyard, Skylands Stadium’s award-winning restaurant and bar. Click here to find out more information and to purchase tickets.
Hoboken and Jersey City Tree Lighting
Tree Lighting Ceremony | Newark Avenue Pedestrian Mall, Jersey City
Downtown Jersey City welcomes neighbors and residents alike to join them for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. This December 1st event includes the lighting of the tree, the lighting of the menorah, a visit from Santa, holiday carolers, musical entertainment by The Sarafinas, and a toy drive. This event is free to attend and fun for all ages. This is an outdoor event, so make sure to dress accordingly. This event will begin at 5:30PM and conclude at 7PM.
Hoboken Christmas Tree Lighting
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Locals, join your neighbors to celebrate ringing in the holiday season at the annual Hoboken Community Tree Lighting Celebration. This event includes holiday performances, a holiday market to shop around for early gifts, and Santa might even show up to take some pictures. Although this year’s celebration has yet to be announced, it usually takes place the first or second week in December so keep your eyes peeled.
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