As the holiday season unfolds across New Jersey, towns and cities throughout the state are welcoming residents and visitors to their festive Christmas tree lighting ceremonies. While many events took place in late November or the first weekend of December, several communities continue to host celebrations throughout the month, offering families an opportunity to enjoy music, cocoa, holiday treats, and dazzling displays of lights.
From the Jersey Shore to northern New Jersey, each tree lighting brings its own local charm. In Asbury Park, the annual Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting on December 6 featured Santa himself illuminating the festive centerpiece at 6 p.m., drawing crowds to the boardwalk for music, caroling, and holiday cheer. Belvidere’s Tree Lighting and Winter Festival, also held on December 6, combined the lighting ceremony with skating, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a petting zoo, creating a full evening of family-friendly fun.
Collingswood kicked off its holiday season early with a November 28 tree lighting, while Evesham Township in Marlton welcomed the season on December 6 with a community celebration. Fanwood followed on December 8 with a festive event that included local entertainment and a holiday ceremony. Galloway Township showcased the talents of the Absegami High School Choir and concluded its celebration with a fireworks display, highlighting the joy and excitement of the season.
Several other towns have hosted memorable events, including Glassboro’s “Boro in Lights” on December 5, Haddonfield and Ocean City’s tree lightings on November 28, and Red Bank and Stone Harbor’s Island and Town Lightings, also on November 28. Jersey City’s official ceremony took place on December 9 at 4:30 p.m., while Trenton held its annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade on December 5, offering a combination of holiday tradition and community pride. North Wildwood celebrated at the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse Courtyard on December 6, and Wildwood Crest marked its festive tree lighting on December 1. Tinton Falls’ Jersey Shore Premium Outlets hosted its annual tree lighting spectacular on November 15, making it one of the earliest celebrations of the season.
Newark continues its long-standing tradition with the 40th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting today, December 10, at 4 p.m. in the City Hall Rotunda, promising music, festive décor, and a community gathering that embodies the spirit of the holidays. For families seeking a full-day experience, the Wildwoods Family Holiday Celebration at the Wildwoods Convention Center on December 13 runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., culminating in a grand tree lighting ceremony that promises entertainment, holiday treats, and family-friendly activities.
As December unfolds across New Jersey, communities from north to south are inviting residents and visitors to experience the magic of the holiday season through Christmas tree lighting ceremonies and festive events. While many towns held their major celebrations in late November or the first weekend of December, several communities continue to host events and holiday displays throughout the month, providing families with opportunities to enjoy music, treats, activities, and the glow of twinkling lights.
Newark is continuing a beloved tradition with its 40th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting today, December 10, at 4 p.m. in the City Hall Rotunda. This long-standing celebration features seasonal music, community gatherings, and a beautifully decorated tree that highlights the festive spirit at the heart of the city.
For families seeking a full day of holiday fun, the Wildwoods Family Holiday Celebration at the Wildwoods Convention Center on December 13 runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., concluding with a grand tree lighting ceremony at 4 p.m. This free, family-friendly event offers games, activities, and entertainment for all ages, making it a perfect destination for holiday memories and festive cheer.
Belvidere hosted its annual Tree Lighting and Winter Festival on December 6, combining the lighting ceremony with skating, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a petting zoo for children. The event creates a charming small-town atmosphere that celebrates the season with interactive activities for the whole family. Trenton also embraced the holiday spirit with its Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade on December 5, providing a lively showcase of community pride, festive floats, and music. Jersey City held its official tree lighting ceremony on December 9 at 4:30 p.m., blending urban holiday traditions with family-friendly entertainment.
Although many towns have already celebrated their main lighting events, numerous communities continue to offer ongoing light displays, decorated streets, and seasonal attractions throughout December. From illuminated public squares to winter-themed festivals, these experiences allow residents and visitors to enjoy the magic of the holidays at their own pace, whether it’s a quick evening stroll or a full day of activities.
New Jersey’s festive celebrations also provide inspiration for families and individuals looking for seasonal entertainment. Beyond the tree lighting ceremonies, communities host caroling events, holiday markets, craft workshops, and interactive activities that make December a month of joyful gatherings. For those exploring seasonal activities across the state, resources for family-friendly experiences provide guides to events, attractions, and entertainment options that complement tree lighting ceremonies and extend the festive fun.
From iconic city celebrations to quaint small-town traditions, New Jersey’s tree lighting events highlight the warmth and togetherness of the season. These celebrations not only illuminate the holidays with sparkling trees and decorations but also strengthen community spirit and offer residents a chance to create lasting memories with friends and family.
For local businesses looking to get involved in seasonal events or enhance their presence during the holidays, exploring business resources can provide insights into community engagement, marketing opportunities, and ways to participate in local festivities while supporting their communities.
Whether you’re strolling along a boardwalk, attending a small-town ceremony, or enjoying a city-wide holiday event, New Jersey’s Christmas tree lighting celebrations continue to bring warmth, joy, and festive cheer to the state this holiday season.
