New Jersey’s cultural calendar fills quickly each December, but few seasonal traditions match the scale, history, and atmosphere of celebrating the holidays aboard the Battleship New Jersey. As one of the state’s premier heritage attractions and a cornerstone of regional tourism, the famed vessel transforms into a floating winter destination complete with festive programming for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a uniquely local way to mark the season. It also stands as a compelling example of the rich experiences found across New Jersey’s broader landscape of art & culture.
The ship’s signature holiday kickoff arrives on Saturday, December 13, when Santa steps aboard for a family-friendly morning event that blends maritime history with timeless holiday cheer. Beginning at 10:00 a.m., guests can sit down for a freshly prepared hot breakfast served right from the Chow Line, followed by a meet-and-greet and photo opportunity with Santa himself. Once breakfast concludes, visitors may explore the ship at their own pace with complimentary self-guided access included in the ticket. Active-duty military personnel receive a reduced admission price, reinforcing the Battleship’s ongoing commitment to those who serve.
For guests looking to extend their visit beyond breakfast, the ship’s historic passageways now feature beautifully decorated holiday trees created by local nonprofit organizations. This seasonal display, available to visitors through January 2, transforms key areas of the vessel into a community-driven celebration of the holidays. Each tree reflects the mission and creativity of the participating nonprofits, underscoring the strength of the region’s philanthropic networks. Their work highlights the contributions of Bestwork Industries for the Blind, Cathedral Kitchen, CASA for Children, Food Bank of South Jersey, Hopeworks, Inspira Health, KB Foundation, Larc Norcross School, Ronald McDonald House, and Shoes For Your Soul. The Battleship also recognizes the generous sponsorship support from FirsTrust Bank, Lowe’s, Pennoni, and PSE&G, whose involvement helps sustain this growing seasonal tradition.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, the Battleship New Jersey becomes one of the most sought-after vantage points for the Delaware River fireworks. Visitors can choose between two showtimes. The early celebration begins with 4:00 p.m. boarding for the 6:00 p.m. display, an ideal option for families with younger children. The later seating welcomes guests starting at 10:00 p.m. to ring in 2026 beneath the midnight fireworks. Live music, on-board concessions, and a full-service bar contribute to a lively atmosphere that rivals any waterfront celebration in the region.
For those seeking a more elevated experience, the Battleship’s VIP package offers exclusive access to the 01 Admiral’s Deck, one level above the main viewing area. This upgrade includes private appetizers, an open bar featuring beer, wine, and seltzer, and unlimited soft drinks for younger guests. The vantage point alone is worth the upgrade, making this one of the most memorable ways to watch the fireworks illuminate the Delaware River.
The Battleship’s seasonal programming continues inside the gift shop, where a limited edition challenge coin commemorating Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz’s Christmas Eve 1944 visit to the USS New Jersey is available for purchase. Produced in a small run, the coin serves as a meaningful collector’s piece that ties modern-day visitors to a wartime moment on the same decks they stand on today.
From December 20 through January 4, the Battleship expands its schedule of guided tours to accommodate the influx of visitors during the holiday break. Tours will be offered at noon and 2 p.m. daily during this period, giving more families the opportunity to learn the full story of the nation’s most decorated battleship. Guests should note that the ship will close at 1 p.m. on Christmas Eve and remain closed on Christmas Day to allow staff and volunteers time with their families.
The Battleship New Jersey’s holiday programming continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the state’s most dynamic cultural attractions and a defining part of the season for many New Jersey families. Whether you’re sharing breakfast with Santa, admiring community-decorated trees, collecting a piece of naval history, or watching fireworks from the deck of an American icon, the ship offers a holiday experience unlike any other in the region.
If you’d like, I can also prepare event-specific sidebar listings, a second version for social media promotion, or an extended Explore New Jersey spotlight on the ship’s broader historical impact.
