HOLIDAY GUIDE
IT’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR ONCE AGAIN, AND THE GARDEN STATE IS SERVING A SWEEPING FEAST OF FESTIVE FANFARE, FROM BUZZY WINTER FESTIVALS AND ENCHANTING TRAIN RIDES TO SENSATIONAL STAGE PLAYS AND DAZZLING LIGHT SHOWS
BY EMILY MEISSNER AND AMANDA McCOY
HOLIDAY TRAIN RIDES
All board for enchanting rides through Santa’s stomping grounds, dizzying light displays, historic city centers, storybook scenes, and more.
BLACK RIVER & WESTERN RAILROAD NORTH POLE EXPRESS/FLEMINGTON Santa and Mrs. Claus host an epic Christmas journey deep into the North Pole, complete with cookies, cocoa, and a photo booth. Runs through December 30. blackriverrailroad.com
CAPE MAY SEASHORE LINES SANTA STARLIGHT EXPRESS/ RICHLAND VILLAGE/TUCKAHOE Join Santa on a 30-minute ride through scenic South Jersey. Runs through December 23. seashorelines.org
SANTA’S TROLLEY RIDES/ CAPE MAY Mrs. Claus tells stories and sings seasonal tunes as the famed trolley traverses the Victorian downtown. Runs through December 31. capemaymac.org
THE POLAR EXPRESS/ WHIPPANY Aboard the Morristown & Erie Railway, enjoy a magical one-hour trip to meet Santa, complete with hot chocolate and treats. Each guest will take home a keepsake sleigh bell. Through December 30. whippanythepolarexpressride.com
THE POLAR EXPRESS/ PHILIPSBURG Passengers will relive the magic of the classic story as they are invited to don their jammies for the Delaware River Railroad excursion. Through December 17. 877trainride.com/polarexpress
MAGICAL HOLIDAY EXPRESS/ HAMMONTON All aboard a train ride through millions of Christmas lights with a meet-and-greet with Santa and his elves in his workshop. After, head to the Holiday Movie tent, take a photo with your favorite snowman, and shop for everyone on your list at the Toy Market and Holiday Village. Through December 23. didonatofuncenter.com/ magical-expressTHEATER PRODUCTIONS
Gift Tip: Anyone who appreciates the arts will love being treated to a live performance. Theater gift shops, in-person and online, are sources of meaningful purchases that support the arts.
ALGONQUIN 60 Abe Vorhees Drive Manasquan, algonquinarts.org
ELF THE MUSICAL Based on the 2003 film, Elf The Musical is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. December 2-17.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL Charles Dickens’ classic story comes to life in this touching musical performance, featuring carols and fresh comedic dialogue. December 15.
AXELROD PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 100 Grant Avenue, Deal axelrodartscenter.com
THE POLAR EXPRESS Step inside the immersive Polar Express, and be transported through the snowy mountains to the North Pole. December 1 through 10.
CARTERET PERFORMING ARTS & EVENTS CENTER 46 Washington Street, Cateret cateretpac.com
HOLIDAY DREAMS CIRQUE Direct from Las Vegas, this ground-breaking holiday show incorporates acrobats, aerialists, comedians, daredevils, and award-winning specialty acts, all performing using the latest in visual and technological “magic” on December 30.
THE WIZARDS OF WINTER A fun-filled Christmas holiday rock experience for the whole family, featuring former members of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and other famous classic rock bands. December 9.
AN OLDE ENGLISH CHRISTMAS WITH HERMAN’S HERMITS The iconic English ‘60s beat band Herman’s Hermits features a playlist of Christmas tunes and the band’s classic hits. December 16.
COUNT BASIE CENTER FOR THE ARTS 90 Monmouth Street, Red Bank thebasie.org
A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS, LIVE ON STAGE, Nov. 24.
RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER, THE MUSICAL, Nov. 28.
HOLIDAY DOO WOP, Dec. 2.
DARREN CRISS: A VERY DARREN CRISSMAS, Dec. 4.
ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK, Dec. 11.
HOLIDAY EXPRESS, Dec. 19.
THE VOGEL 90 Monmouth Street, Red Bank thebasie.org
EMILY GROVE’S JONI MITCHELL BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION, Nov. 16.
A PETER WHITE CHRISTMAS, Nov. 29.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL PERFORMED BY GERALD CHARLES DICKENS, Dec. 4.
DAVID BENOIT CHRISTMAS, Dec. 6.
DISNEY’S FROZEN JR, Dec. 10-12.
CHRIS PINNELLA: CHRISTMAS IN RED BANK, Dec. 16.
THE SENSATIONAL SOUL CRUISERS A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS SHOW, Dec. 23.
Photo: A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS by CHARLES M. SCHULZ
directed and choreographed by JOE BARROS
based on the television special by BILL MELENDEZ AND LEE MENDELSON
stage adaptation by ERIC SCHAEFFER
by special arrangement with ARTHUR WHITELAW AND RUBY PERSSON
presented by arrangement with
TAMS-WITMARK MUSIC LIBRARY, INC.
TODD GERSHWIN, Executive Producer
ANTHONY J. CANTALUPO, Producer and Creative Director
Photo-call: Monday, November 18, 2019; 1:00 PM at Leon M. Goldstein Performing Arts Center; Kingsborough Community College, Brooklyn, NY.
Photograph: © 2019 Richard Termine.
PHOTO CREDIT – RICHARD TERMINE
GEORGE STREET PLAYHOUSE at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center 11 Livingston Avenue New Brunswick georgestreetplayhouse.org
HAVING OUR SAY Adapted for the stage by Emily Mann, Having Our Say is an enthralling full-length play based on the best-selling book by Sarah (Sadie) Delany and Elizabeth (Bessie) Delany. This powerful production revolves around the remarkable lives of African-American sisters, Sadie and Bessie Delany, who both surpass the age of 100. November 28-December 17.
MAYO PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 100 South Street Morristown, mayoarts.org
A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS: LIVE ON STAGE Everyone’s favorite holiday classic comes to life as Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the whole gang produce their own Christmas play. November 26.
A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS Embrace the holiday spirit with a Magical Cirque Christmas, a variety show full of nostalgia, charm, and awe-inspiring performances. December 2.
GIRL NAMED TOM–ONE MORE CHRISTMAS TOUR Celebrate the holidays with the 2021 winner of The Voice, performing music from their album, One More Christmas, and other favorites. Their homegrown style combines the classics (Joni Mitchell, Crosby, Stills & Nash) with pop artists of today (Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Adrienne Lenker). December 10.
IRISH TENORS 25TH ANNIVERSARY: A FAMILY CHRISTMAS Anthony Kearns, Ronan Tynan, and Declan Kelly have been acknowledged as Celtic music kings since they first burst on the scene. December 9.
NEW JERSEY BALLET’S NUTCRACKER WITH NEW JERSEY SYMPHONY New Jersey Ballet’s beloved annual tradition enchants youngsters and grown-ups alike with splendid dancing and eye-popping special effects. December 15-27.
MCCARTER THEATRE 91 University Place, Princeton, mccarter.org
AMERICAN REPERTORY BALLET’S THE NUTCRACKER The Nutcracker holds a special place in the hearts of both new and longtime patrons, becoming synonymous with the holiday season. McCarter’s annual holiday tradition returns to the stage on the grounds of Princeton University with more magic, music, and merriment for all. One of the state’s best renditions of the holiday classic. November 24-26, December 6-24.
DICKEN’S A CHRISTMAS CAROL Select dates throughout December.
PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE 22 Brookside Drive Millburn, papermill.org
FIDDLER ON THE ROOF This beloved classic is sure to charm and captivate the entire family. The Tony Award-winning musical is set in a Russian village in the home of Tevye, a Jewish husband and father striving to uphold his family’s religious and cultural traditions. December 6-January 7.
STATE THEATER 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, stnj.org
CELEBRATE THE SEASON WITH SARAH BRIGHTMAN: A CHRISTMAS SYMPHONY Accompanied by an orchestra, choir, and special guests, this magical holiday show will feature Bright man performing many of her holiday classics and greatest hits. November 26.
A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS, A HOLIDAY VARIETY SHOW, Experience the enchantment of Christmas with an evening of dazzling performers and breathtaking cirque artists, accompanied by your favorite holiday music. December 1.
MORE AT STATE: There Illusionists, Magic of the Holidays, Dec. 6.
Manheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis, Dec. 10.
The Nutcracker American Repertory Ballet, Dec. 15-17.
The Hip Hop Nutcracker, Dec. 29.
Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert, Dec. 31.
NJ PAC 1 Center Street, Newark njpac.org
A GOSPEL HOLIDAY! A Gospel-inspired family concert by the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra. December 9.
MORE AT NJ PAC: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Film with Chevy Chase Conversation, Dec. 15. The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine performs the traditional classic Nutcracker ballet, Dec. 17. The Hip Hop Nutcracker reinvigorates the holiday classic, December 23. Cirque Dreams Holidaze, Dec. 26.
STATEWIDE (AND BEYOND) SPARKLE
Gift Tip: For that cult-to-shop-for family member or friend, turn to specialty items from New Jersey destinations, like local coffee, honey, preserves, peanuts, baked goods, and branded wares. Find unique artisan crafted goods to celebrate good cheer while getting into the holiday spirit.
ASBURY PARK AND LONG BRANCH HOLIDAY BAZAARS It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Asbury Park! The festive market inside Convention Hall’s Grand Arcade hosts a showcase of handcrafted goods and unique holiday gifts by local and regional artisans accompanied by holiday music, entertainment, food, drinks, craft workshops, kids activities, festive décor, entertainment, and a majestic Christmas tree. Black Friday, November 24 & every Sat. & Sun, November 25-December 17, 12-5 p.m. asburyparkbazaar.com
CHANUKAH OUTDOOR MENORAH LIGHTINGS From your town to out-of-town, Menorah Lightings can include events and parties. In historic Princeton, Palmer Square hosts live music and activities, while Cherry Hill, Long Branch, Morristown, and Wayne have car parades. chabadshore.com, palmersquare.com, bestofnj.com, jccnj.org
20TH ANNUAL COLONIAL CHRISTMAS/BEDMINSTER A cocktail party for adults kicks off the event on December 2, featuring colonial music performed by Linda Russell. Holiday cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and an antique fi rearm demonstration. Tickets are required per adult. Then, on December 3, visitors of all ages can enjoy an array of outdoor festivities including free photos with Santa, live holiday music by The Hickory Tree Chorus, poinsettia sale, a chance to decorate your own gingerbread man, a colonial re-enactment, and an annual tree lighting. December 2 and 3. jvanderveerhouse.org
FELIZ NAVIDAD MEDIEVAL & RENAISSANCE MUSIC MONTCLAIR Start your holiday season off with Medieval & Renaissance Music from Spain & Latin America. Featuring Christmas music and traditions emanating from Medieval and Renaissance times followed by a reception with Spanish delicacies. December 3, montclairearlymusic.org
CHRISTMAS AT ALLAIRE WALL TOWNSHIP Join us for Christmas at Allaire to see the historic Village inside Allaire State Park transformed into an enchanting showcase of holiday cheer. Complete with cooking demonstrations, traditional Victorian celebrations, and lantern tours, model trains, bakery treats, and a food truck. Don’t forget to visit Santa and mail holiday cards at the post office. December 9, 10, 15, 16, 17 & 23. eventbrite.com/e/christmas-at-allaire
CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL MORRISTOWN GREEN The Colonial town honors local traditions over 100 years old and transforms into a winter wonderland. Activities, entertainment, a Santa House, ice sculpting demonstrations, crafts, mini train rides, gingerbread house making, carolers, holiday music, and treats through December 19. A full calendar of family friendly activities will be posted for Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays throughout the month of December. December 1-17. morristown-nj.org/event/christmasfestival
DEMAREST FARMS ORCHARD OF LIGHTS/HILLSDALE Drive through 32 acres of lighted holiday displays, visit the farm market, and take pictures with Santa. November 22-December 29. demarestfarms.com
FLIGHT ON ICE/EGG HARBOR CITY HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR Renault Winery’s Vintner Wonderland transforms into an ice skating rink. Enjoy festive drinks and food, a robust live entertainment schedule, fire pits with seating, retail shopping village with local vendors, the festival of Trees charity drive, indoor dining options, holiday music, lights and video, and much more. November 24-February 25, flightonice.com/locations/renault-winery
HANDMADE HOLIDAY MAPLEWOOD The place for one-of-a-kind gifts of pottery, folk art, handcrafted jewelry, and wearable art. Free admission. The Woodland Great Hall, 60 Woodland Road. December 9 & 10. maplewoodartsandculture.org/upcomingexhibitions-and-programs/winterartsale
HOLIDAY FOOD & CRAFT FESTIVAL/MORRISTOWN Experience a food truck festival indoors at the Morristown National Guard Armory. Pictures with Santa, 60+ craft and food vendors, live music, craft beer, wines, games, and fun for all ages. November 25. morristowngreen.com
HOLIDAY TOUR OF HOMES/ LONG BEACH ISLAND For the 55th year, the Garden Club of Long Beach Island decorates five palatial homes with festive finery. The $65 ticket price includes lunch at the Brant Beach Yacht Club. December 7. thegardencluboflbi.com/special-events
LAMBERTVILLE & NEW HOPE Big Band Holiday Concert: An evening of song and dance combining quintessential holiday music in the style of Mariah Carey, Rosemary Clooney, Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, and more, played live by a 17-piece big band with theater singers. Music Mountain Theatre, 1483 Route 179. December 15-17.
THE NUTCRACKER “SUITES” & TEA PARTY/LAMBERTVILLE The Nutcracker “Suites” and Tea Party welcomes the holidays with a fun-filled afternoon of sweets, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate with the characters from The Nutcracker. November 12. lambertvillechamber.com/ member_event/the-nutcracker suite-tea-party
MAGIC OF LIGHTS/PNC ARTS CENTER, HOLMDEL Load up the car for a mile-long drive-through exhibit that’s bigger and brighter than ever with your favorite holiday scenes and characters. Don’t miss the sparkling Holiday Barbie display, the supersized Bigfoot Monster Truck, and the life-sized dinosaurs of Prehistoric Christmas! One carload, one price for the entire family. November 17-December 30. magicoflights.com
CHRISTMAS VILLAGE PHILADELPHIA Celebrate a 15-year tradition as LOVE Park and the City Hall Courtyard are transformed into an authentic German Christmas Market with over 100 vendors featuring European gifts and specialties. November 18-December 24. philachristmas.com
SIX FLAGS GREAT ADVENTURE/JACKSON HOLIDAY IN THE PARK Bundle up and experience millions of lights, festive foods, holiday sweets and treats, hot cocoa, and over 30 rides. November 24-January 1. sixflags.com/greatadventure/events/ holiday-in-the-park-2023
DICKENS FEST IN SMITHVILLE/GALLOWAY TOWNSHIP A two-day outdoor event. An original, musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens’ heartwarming classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge. November 25 & 26. historicsmithville.com
CHRISTMAS IN SMITHVILLE GALLOWAY TOWNSHIP Charming accommodations are tucked amidst the shops and restaurants in the quaint enclave near Atlantic City. Sample the subterranean Baremore Tavern below the historic Smithville Inn before grabbing s’mores by the fire and viewing the nightly Light Show on Lake Meone. Over 100 floating trees blink in sync with seasonal music. Don’t forget to check out the magical talking Christmas tree! December 26-January 1. historicsmithville.com
SKYLANDS STADIUM AUGUSTA More than two million lights illuminate a mile-long drive in this Christmas Light Show. It’s free to enter the adjacent Outdoor Christmas Village with Santa’s Workshop, a skating rink, seasonal treats, carnival games, and local artisans. November 22–December 30. skylandstadium.com
STORYBOOK LAND/EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP The magic of Christmas is resplendent throughout the enchanted fairy-tale theme park adorned with millions of lights. Mr. and Mrs. Claus visits through December 23. Train rides, food, music, and decorations. November 18-December 30. storybookland.com
TREE FARMS Indelible memories are made (and great photos taken), hunting through fragrant fir farms seeking the perfect specimen throughout the state. njchristmastrees.org
NORTHLAND/FLEMINGTON In the Guinness Book of Records for jaw-dropping model railroad layouts, with 100 trains running on eight miles of track and highly detailed buildings and scenery. The museum/tourist attraction also boasts an outdoor train ride, a doll museum, a New Jersey Tourist Information Center, and a snack shop. northlandz.com
MONMOUTH MUSEUM LINCROFT The annual Holiday Train Display combines whimsy, history, and running model railroad layouts in the Main Gallery. Through January 8. Brookdale Community College. November 19-January 8. monmouthmuseum.org/trains
WEIHNACHTSMARKT GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKET/AUGUSTA Vendors, food, entertainment, and family fun at an authentic European Christmas market with train exhibits and decorated trees. Benefits Sussex County charities. December 1-3. Sussex County Fairgrounds. germanchristmasnj.com
WINERIES & BREWERIES Experience how the Garden State got its name, where centuries-old processes adhere to honored traditions. Themed events, music, special foods, fire pit gatherings, Christmas tree sales, and state-centric gifts. visitnj.org/new-jerseybeer-wine-spirits newjerseywines.com, njcraftbeer.com
CHRISTMAS ON THE COAST: A CAPE MAY ESCAPE
Get into the true spirit of the holidays while visiting a Victorian village that captures all the charm at Christmastime. November 18-January 1.
The epitome of Yuletide Victorian immersion in America’s oldest seaside resort defies superlatives. Decorated in period style and filled with gracious inns, delectable dining, boutique shopping, walking and trolley tours, and myriad entertaining activities, Cape May is the nation’s only National Historic Landmark City. Find specifics and purchase advance tickets on the Cape May MAC website. The Washington Street Mall kiosk also has info and tickets. capemaymac.org
CONGRESS HALL Its size and history makes the 1816 landmark, voted a Top 10 Best Holiday Hotel, a must- see. The Winter Wonderland Spectacular includes breakfast with Santa, train rides, a carousel, Enchanted Vendor Village, igloos, a seasonal bar on the grand veranda, multiple dining options, and Santa’s workshop activities. November 24-December 31. caperesorts.com/ capemay/winter-wonderland
THE EMLEN PHYSICK ESTATE Magnificent 1879 architecture and décor distinguish Cape May’s year-round living museum. Take the Physick Family Christmas House Tour with a docent portraying an original family member, and be sure to snap a photo with the UpsideDown Christmas tree. November 29-January 2. capemaymac.org
WASHINGTON STREET MALL The pedestrian promenade decks the halls and hosts authentically costumed Victorian carolers. Distinctive wares in eclectic shops can complete your holiday gift list. There are restaurants and bars aplenty, along with candy shops and the throwback Della’s 5 & 10, complete with counter service. washingtonstreetmall.com
WEST END GARAGE A former gas station turned “Best of the Shore” award winner for its wide array of quality goods from more than 50 vendors. Artisan and shore themed creations, vintage and new clothing and accessories, antiques, locally made foodstuffs, and much more. A café/bakery is adjacent and other shops and restaurants are nearby, too. exitzero.com
BIG APPLE DAZZLE
Few cities capture the magic of the holiday season quite like New York, from fantasy window displays and pop-up ice rinks to dizzying gift markets and red-carpet galas. A few menu standouts:
CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Let the glitter, lights, and gravity-dashing dance moves commence! The Radio City Rockettes are back in high-kicking action once again this year, now through January 2, with multi shows daily in December. Radio City Music Hall, msg.com/ radio-city-music-hall
DINNER GALA AT THE ROCKEFELLER CENTER TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY Watch as the country’s most famous Christmas tree shines for the first time this holiday season while you sip champagne and nosh on waiter-passed hors d’oeuvres. The experience also includes a full premium open bar, gourmet buffet dinner, live entertainment, and an outdoor viewing area to drink in panoramic views of Rockefeller Center. $1,000, feverup.com
HOLIDAYS AT THE EDGE One of the city’s most dazzling views takes its sky-high seat seriously this time of year, dressing the Skyline Steps and sky deck overlook with more than 50,000 twinkling lights. Take in views of the city 1,131 feet above the street with a menu of seasonal treats, including an adult Edge-nog or Cocoa in the Clouds (virgin or spiked), and be on the lookout for surprise performances by New York Holiday Singers. edgenyc.com
CITY CRUISES NEW YORK City Cruises will also host specialty holiday cruises on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. In addition to the regular menu items, Thanksgiving cruises will feature a traditional turkey dinner entree with classic accents like garlic mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce. citycruises.com
BRYANT PARK WINTER VILLAGE The iconic holiday gift extravaganza is officially open! Sip mulled wine while browsing over 180 new and returning kiosks and eateries to find the perfect present or bite before taking on the 17,000-squarefoot ice-skating rink. Through March 3, 2024.
LOTTE NEW YORK PALACE The five-star landmark hotel hosts one of the shiniest holiday displays in the city, transforming its outdoor courtyard into a swanky Santa fantasyland, complete with a 30-foot Christmas tree, thousands of twinkling lights, and a Santa’s Mailbox for the kiddos to drop in their wishlists. Book a weekend stay to catch an exclusive Illusions show by Steve Cohen, known as the “millionaire’s magician.” lottenypalace.com
NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDENS HOLIDAY TRAIN SHOW The Holiday Train Show returns bigger than ever with more trains and an all-new, outdoor train display. Start on the lawn to capture your perfect holiday photos with outdoor mountain scapes and then watch trains zip past nearly 200 iconic New York landmarks under the warmth of the Conservatory. nybg.org/event/holiday-train show
NYC PRIVATE LIMO DYKER HEIGHTS LIGHT TOUR Each year, thousands trek far into Brooklyn to witness the magic that is Dyker Heights, a small enclave of holiday-loving residents that convert their houses and lawns into pages from a Christmas storybook, from full-sized Santa and reindeer displays to synchronized light shows. You can take the subway and embark on a self-guided walking tour, sure, or you can opt to make the trek via limo. Pickup from anywhere in Manhattan, a three-hour experience. $435+ for up to four guests, limosonlongisland.com
WINTER LANTERN FESTIVAL Step into a dazzling world of light with over 1,000 Chinese lanterns, all handmade by artisans with decades of experience. A whimsical walk-through experience to light up and warm up the holiday season. winterlanternfestival.com/ new-york
HOLIDAY TEA AT THE CARLYLE The Gallery at The Carlyle welcomes the holiday season with a festive take on traditional afternoon tea featuring Christmas-themed cookies, petit fours, and more. You might also spot the Yuletide Carolers, stopping by the hotel throughout the month of December to celebrate the season in song. rosewoodhotels.com
