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Festive Fun in NJ/NYC – Sleepover Party Shop’s Top Holiday Picks
Beat the winter blues with festive events happening in NJ and NYC this holiday season with Sleepover Party Shop‘s Top Holiday Picks. Discover magical sights, family-friendly activities, and unforgettable experiences to make your Christmas break extra special. Save this list and share with friends to plan the ultimate holiday fun!
Where: The Morristown & Erie Railway, Whippany Station, NJ
When: 11/1 – 12/30
Join a magical trip on the Polar Express, powered by the Morristown & Erie Railway. Each ticket includes fantastic entertainment, delicious hot chocolate, shortbread, and a keepsake sleigh bell to bring home. Families are encourage to wear their pajamas for the ride. Read more.
Where: Hudson River Park, NY
When: 11/2
This November, don’t miss a chance to participate in a Hudson River Park fall favorite, Pumpkin Smash! A sustainable way to celebrate the season, Pumpkin Smash provides a way for pumpkins to be broken down and repurposed into compost by Hudson River Park’s team. You’ll get fifteen minutes of smashing fun and your choice of a bat, hammer or shovel to break up your gourd into the smallest pieces you can! Stick around after to learn from the HRPK team how composting works at the Park and enjoy the beautiful pier. Read more.
Where: Princeton Shopping Center, NJ
When: 11/2
It’s a Day of the Dead celebration in Princeton with strolling mariachis, sugar skull decorating, folk arts and crafts, food and drink, and traditional dance. Learn about this rich cultural holiday at this free, family-friendly festival at the Princeton Shopping Center. You can create crafts inspired by traditional Mexican folk art, decorate sugar skulls, enjoy live music by Mariachi Los Tigres de Princeton and create a community altar. Read more.
Where: Freehold Raceway Mall, NJ
When: 11/8 onwards
Step into a world of wonder at the 2024 Holiday Lights Festival, “Wonder Journey”, bringing a dazzling spectacle to Freehold Raceway Mall. This year’s festival transforms the mall’s parking lot into a whimsical adventure, offering visitors a magical journey through iconic moments inspired by the beloved children’s story Alice in Wonderland. Read more.
Where: Diggerland USA, Berlin Township, NJ
When: 9/28 – 12/1
Diggerfest is Diggerland USA’s fall festival. It’s the time of year all of the pumpkins sprout up to drive, ride & operate all of the amazing machines at Diggerland USA. Not only can you enjoy all the awesome rides and attractions, weekends from Sept. 24th – Oct. 30th, you can also take part in special events, additional carnival rides, hay rides, pumpkin decorating, a parade of machines through the park, petting zoo, live entertainment, balloon animals, shows, a fun maze, bonfires and more. This is an exclusive fall festival where you can enjoy plenty of family-fun and games. Don’t miss it! Read more.
Where: Damrosch Park, Lincoln Center, NY
When: 11/8 onwards
New York City’s hometown circus, the Big Apple Circus, returns with an all-new show celebrating the magic and excitement of the city that never sleeps.“Hometown Playground” will dazzle children of all ages and parents alike with soaring acrobats, jaw-dropping stunts, comedic mischief, and the cutest performing dogs ever. Audiences will take an unforgettable journey celebrating the diverse neighborhoods and unique landmarks that make our city like none other in the world. Read more.
Where: Bergen County Zoo, Paramus, NJ
When: 11/7 – 01/12
Larger-than-life glowing lanterns have been installed creating 30+ glowing scenes. See animals real and imagined laid out throughout the Bergen County Zoo. Let it Glow is a symphony of vivid glowing colors to tease your eyes and dazzle the mind. Come and enjoy an enchanting stroll throughout the zoo These larger than life lanterns are amazing in picture but stunning in person. With over 30 scenes, these hand-made artistic wonders are more breath-taking than the last. Read more.
Where: Watermark, South Street Seaport, NY
When: 11/8 – 12/31
Experience a whimsical waterfront Holiday installation along with dining and entertainment options surrounded by Christmas trees, games, and activities for kids and adults alike! Enjoy a fully outdoor experience where you indulge in complimentary treats from Santa’s snack shack to enjoy as you take in the sights and activities. Or stay a while, and reserve seating in their Magical and illuminated Heated Glasshouses and indulge in a curated holiday menu filled with delicious food, cocktails and sweet treats. Read more.
Where: Downtown Princeton, NJ
When: 11/9
Shop from 100+ artisans working in ceramics, textiles, jewelry, printmaking, drawing and painting, apparel, home décor, and so much more at Sauce for the Goose Outdoor Art Market. Talented vendors will line Paul Robeson Place in Downtown Princeton, NJ for this fan-fave art market featuring the best of the best in regional ceramics, textiles, painting, printmaking, glass, wood, and so much more. like, *so* much more. get that holiday shopping started – there will be so much unique, hand-crafted, FUN stuff for your loved ones. and don’t forget about yourself. Read more.
Where: Riamede Farm, Chester, NJ
When: 11/9
The Fourth Annual Christmas at the Farm community holiday market is not to be missed. There will be something for the entire family to enjoy as you kick off your holiday season. Explore over 50 local artisan vendors offering handmade goods that are perfect for everyone on your gift list. Take memorable photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy a hayride through the autumn orchard, and pick your own apples. Satisfy your taste buds with treats from various food trucks and don’t forget to grab some donuts with apple cider! Read more.
Where: Diamond Spring Brewing, Denville, NJ
When: 11/9
Diamond Spring Brewing’s Second Annual Flannel Fest is almost here! Part lumberjack jamboree, part grunge fest, join for live bands, including an Americana/AltFolk band and a 90’s Grunge Tribute, fire pits, limited beer releases, plus, enter the beard contest officiated by the Garden State Beardos Society, and more! Enjoy onsite food Vendor Doo Wop Eats! Fire Pits, Brews, and Fall Fun ALL DAY! Read more.
Where: Memorial Park, South Bound Brook, NJ
When: 11/9
Just Jersey and the South Bound Brook Fire Company present the inaugural Taco & Empanada Festival on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at Memorial Park in South Bound Brook. This family-friendly event offers gourmet food trucks, a beer and sangria garden, live music from DJ Louis, kids’ activities, a zip line, vendors, and more—all to benefit the South Bound Brook Fire Company. Guests are encouraged to bring a non-perishable item to support the food pantry. Read more.
Where: Laurita Winery, New Egypt, NJ
When: 11/9 – 11/10
Come join us for a fun filled day on the grounds of Laurita Winery – a great place to enjoy outstanding wines with friends and family! Guests can pair wines with a variety of dishes from onsite food trucks and relax while listening to live music from talented artists throughout the weekend. Free admission for Veterans and Active Military. Read more.
Where: Storybook Land, Egg Harbor Township, NJ
When: 11/16 – 12/30
Experience the magic of Storybook Land’s Christmas Fantasy with Lights. Help welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus to Storybook Land through the end of December. Each night at dusk, Santa appears at the chimney and waves his wand, magically lighting up the park. All rides and snack bars are open. Tickets are available to purchase online. Read more.
Where: DiDonato’s Family Fun Center, Hammonton, NJ
When: 11/16 – 12/23
Children and adults can hop aboard the custom-built life-size Rolling Railway at DiDonato’s Family Fun Center. The train ride takes riders through millions of Christmas lights during the holiday season. Meet Santa and his elves in his workshop along with Mrs. Claus. There’s also a holiday movie tent and pictures with Frosty the Snowman, a holiday village, and toy market. Read more.
Where: West Windsor Arts Center, Princeton Junction, NJ
When: Opens 11/17
This is West Windsor Arts’ largest show of the year, featuring an exceptional selection of one-of-a-kind, artisan-made products and original artwork. The collection includes fine art pieces alongside individually curated, handcrafted items, all priced for purchase and available for immediate take-home. Each purchase directly supports West Windsor Arts’ mission to cultivate creativity and inspire the artist within everyone. Read more.
Where: PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ
When: 11/22 – 01/04
Magic of Lights is a dazzling, drive-through holiday lights experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations. Experience Magic of Lights from the comfort and safety of your own car as you wind through the sparkling path of Holmdel’s new holiday tradition. Tune your radio into a holiday soundtrack and enjoy themed displays like “Christmas Around the World”, “Toyland”, and “Nativity”. Read more.
Where:Demarest Farms, Hillsdale NJ
When: 11/22 – 12/29
It’s that magical time of year when Demarest Farms is adorned with holiday lights. Take your car on a guided tour through 32 acres of brilliant holiday light displays. Then, visit Santa, warm up by the fire pit, and enjoy hot cocoa and treats in the retail farm market. You can take pictures with Santa, make s’mores, and listen to Santa’s singing reindeer. Read more.
Where: The Bronx Zoo, NY
When: 11/22 – 01/05
Holiday Lights return to the Bronx Zoo, bigger, brighter, and greener than ever before. The beloved holiday tradition covers acres of the zoo, lighting the grounds with custom Asian lanterns, wildlife-themed LED displays, and animated light shows on the historic Astor Court. Read more.
Where: Prospect Heights, Brooklyn, NY
When: 11/22 – 01/05
The after-dark, illuminated trail returns to Brooklyn Botanic Garden with brand new works of art, taking visitors on an otherworldly nighttime journey through light-splashed landscapes and luminous installations specially curated for BBG. Explore the Garden under moonlight while enjoying seasonal treats and festive music. Make plans to experience this contemporary classic that will enchant visitors of all ages—there is no better way to celebrate winter and the holiday season in Brooklyn! Read more.
Where: Physick Estate, Cape May, NJ
When: 11/23
Santa and his elves will deck out the Physick Estate with thousands of lights and holiday trimmings. The Physick Estate hosts this festive evening to kick off the holiday season. The fun begins with a concert by The Atlantic Brass Band, followed by a Physick Estate Open House, and finally Santa’s tree lighting. Enjoy a free performance of holiday classics by the John Walter Cape Community Band as we join Santa in lighting the tree! Mallory’s Eats will be serving hot chocolate and baked goods for purchase. Read more.
Where: State Theater New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ
When: 11/23 – 11/24
Discover the magic of Dr. Seuss’ classic holiday tale as it comes to life on stage. Featuring the hit songs “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas,” The Grinch discovers there’s more to Christmas than he bargained for in this heart-warming holiday classic. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” decides to steal Christmas away from the holiday-loving Whos. Celebrate the holidays with the show The New York Times calls “100 times better than any bedtime story!” Read more.
Where: New York Botanical Garden, Bronx, NY
When: 11/23 – 01/18
Enter a winter wonderland unlike any other at the Holiday Train Show, where cherished seasonal traditions find a home in the enchanting train displays. The timeless holiday magic of rail travel fills the New York Botanical Garden with nostalgia as model locomotives and trolleys trundle through our picture-perfect outdoor lawn display and bring the Haupt Conservatory to life with the busy sounds of the season. In the warmth of our landmark glasshouse, you’ll find a meticulously crafted world brimming with the lively energy of New York City during the holidays. Read more.
Where: New Victory Theater, NY
When: 11/23 – 12/29
Fill your hearts with circus cheer—the merry daredevils of Cirque Mechanics (Zephyr, 2023) are back with an industrial-strength spectacular for you and your kin. Sparkling with holiday spirit, the ever energetic ensemble of acrobats transforms a drab assembly plant into a holly jolly Yuletide Factory! From the wonder of the German wheel to festive flips from the trampoline wall, they dash and dance through a pageant of powerhouse stunts with grins and goodwill. It’s high-flying fun, comfort and joy for the whole family! Read more.
Where: Upper West Side, NY
When: 11/27
The Macy’s balloon inflation returns. Watching the giant balloons expand is a tradition for many NYC families—almost as important as the Thanksgiving Day Parade proper. Entry to Balloon Inflation can be accessed at 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue and guests can file through to view the balloons on 77th and 81st Streets. Visitors continue up Central Park West for a glimpse of the floats being assembled on the side streets up to 86th. Read more.
Where: Midtown West, NY
When: 11/28
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will march down the streets of New York City for its 98th annual holiday celebration. The parade kicks off from its traditional starting line at 77th Street and Central Park West., then marches down its signature 2.5-mile route taking it from Central Park West to Columbus Circle, turning onto Central Park South and then marching down 6th Avenue/Avenue of the Americas. At 34th Street, the Parade makes its final turn west and ends at 7th Avenue in front of Macy’s Herald Square. Read more.
Where: Historic Smithville Village, Galloway, NJ
When: 11/28 – 01/05
Watch in wonderment as over 120 Christmas Trees made from over 50,000 Christmas lights magically float on Lake Meone in the center of Historic Smithville and light up to the music around you. The moment darkness falls, an orchestrated show of lights and music is played out across the lake. Historic Smithville offers 40 shops, seven eateries, a carousel ride, a train ride, on-site lodging at the Colonial Inn, and over 26 free weekend events. Read more.
Where: Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown, NJ
When: 11/29
Kick off the holiday season with a performance of A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage at Mayo Performing Arts Center. Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the Peanuts characters in their journey to uncover the true meaning of Christmas. Adapted from Charles M. Schulz’s Emmy and Peabody award-winning story, and featuring the unforgettable music of Vince Guaraldi, there’s no better way for families to discover the magic of the season! Read more.
Where: Winter WonderLights, East Brunswick, NJ
When: 11/29 – 12/31
The spectacular Winter WonderLights drive-thru boasts more than 1.5 million lights animated to favorite holiday tunes, with 12 trees, a tunnel of lights, a tribute to first responders, and stunning, larger-than-life, holiday-themed displays synchronized to music playing in your car. Guests are welcome to bundle up in their car, bring snacks/beverages and tune their radio to enjoy the show. The park is a 1/2-mile long drive, and it is open seven days a week. Read more.
Where: Citi Field Lots, Queens, NY
When: 11/29 – 01/19
Walk through a whimsical wonderland to see 7-year-old Koda’s dreams of a visit to Peru’s rainforest through luminous art installations, with live cultural music and dance performances throughout the journey. Experience an enchanting night with Koda’s Adventure to the Magical Forest at Citi Field in Flushing this winter! Try out delicious foods and beverages, enjoy live cultural music and dance performances and complete your visit with a trip to the Marketplace, filled with unique, handcrafted treasures. Read more.
Where: Macy’s Herald Square, NY
When: 11/29 – 12/24
Santa swoops back over to Macy’s for visits with his littlest fans! Wander the rainbow road to his workshop, where you’ll meet jolly old St. Nick. Share your wishlist before receiving a special gift and posing for a keepsake photo. The Macy’s Santaland experience is free and open to the public. Santa heads back to the North Pole on Sunday, December 24, so schedule your meeting before then! Read more.
Where: David Koch Theater, Lincoln Center Plaza, NY
When: 11/29 – 01/04
The New York City Ballet’s annual confection returns, complete with the famous one-ton Christmas tree that grows from 12 to 40 feet, an onstage snowstorm, and hundreds of elaborate costumes, including one for Mother Ginger that measures nine feet wide and weighs 85 pounds! The production’s grand finale involves one million watts of lighting, the most used in any New York City Ballet production. Read more.
Where: Cape May County Park & Zoo, NJ
When: 11/30
Santa Claus is coming to the Cape May Zoo and bringing plenty of festive holiday cheer. Enjoy live holiday music, an ice sculpture demonstration, bounce house, character appearances, performances and free treats for all. Plus, get a visit with jolly old St. Nick himself. The event also features collectibles and crafts for sale by the Cape May County Associations of Zoo Keepers. Read more.
Where: Lexington Avenue, NY
When: 11/30 – 12/15
Discover the supercalifragilisticexpialidocious story of a magical, common-sensical nanny who arrives at one family’s home and opens their eyes to a world of adventure right under their noses.There’s no better way to introduce your child to the character immortalized by Julie Andrews, including songs that they will remember all their lives. Read more.
There’s no better time to embrace the magic of the holiday season than with these unforgettable activities. Don’t miss out on all the latest updates, insider tips, and special offers from Sleepover Party Shop! Head over to our website for exciting party inspiration and unique celebration ideas to make your holiday festivities truly memorable. Let’s make this season your best yet!
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