This holiday season, the Battleship New Jersey is transforming its historic decks into a festive wonderland, offering visitors an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and seasonal celebration. For the first time, the ship’s holiday programming goes far beyond the classic Breakfast with Santa, providing an immersive experience for families, history buffs, and holiday enthusiasts alike.
The ship’s historic spaces are adorned with beautifully decorated Christmas trees, each crafted by local nonprofits, highlighting South Jersey’s community spirit and creative flair. Guests visiting during the season can enjoy these sparkling displays, stroll through the ship’s corridors lit with holiday lights, and take in spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks over the Delaware River, creating a perfect mix of maritime heritage and festive celebration.
Breakfast with Santa returns on December 13, serving up a warm, delicious morning meal from the Chow Line. Families can mingle with Santa, capture holiday photos, and enjoy self-guided access to the Battleship’s many historic spaces. Active military members receive discounted pricing, ensuring everyone can join in the yuletide cheer.
For those who love to dive deeper into naval history, the ship’s podcast, WETSU: A Battleship New Jersey Podcast, offers rich storytelling about America’s most decorated battleship. Hosted by CEO Marshall Spevak, the podcast features interviews with veterans, historians, and key figures who shaped the ship’s storied past. Listeners can uncover untold stories and gain a deeper appreciation for the BB-62’s legacy.
Holiday shoppers will also enjoy exclusive offerings in the Battleshop, including the LEGACY BB-62 Admirals T-Shirt, featuring artwork that celebrates the legendary leaders and powerful armaments of the USS New Jersey.
The Battleship is also offering specialty tours throughout December, appealing to all ages and interests. The Guided Turret II Tour takes guests through five stories of one of the massive 16-inch gun turrets, while the Guided Engine Room Tour provides a hands-on look at the steam-powered engines that propelled the vessel at remarkable speeds. Adults seeking a unique evening experience can join the Twilight Tour, which explores rarely-seen areas of the ship while enjoying beer and wine. Younger enthusiasts are welcome on the Small Sailors Tour, where battleship educators guide children through the ship’s engine rooms and turrets while explaining key naval concepts.
Families and scout troops can even spend the night aboard the Battleship, sleeping in the bunks once used by the crew, enjoying dinner and breakfast, participating in guided tours, and firing the saluting gun for an authentic naval experience. Special New Year’s Eve overnights offer an added treat with access to the fireworks display over the Delaware River.
The Battleship New Jersey’s holiday offerings highlight a perfect blend of art, culture, and history, making it one of South Jersey’s must-visit destinations this season. From festive decorations by local nonprofits to immersive tours, musical entertainment, and fireworks, the ship delivers a holiday experience that celebrates both tradition and community. Visitors looking to explore more cultural events and exhibits throughout the Garden State can find additional opportunities on Explore New Jersey’s art and culture coverage, connecting history, creativity, and festive cheer in one unforgettable destination.
