Best Holiday Lights Displays in NJ

The holiday season is a wonderful time to relax, catch up with loved ones, and take part in special holiday traditions: visiting Santa, going for sleigh rides and of course, checking out the amazing holiday light displays. Many towns in New Jersey have their own tree lighting celebrations but we’re focusing on the biggies. These five holiday light displays are sure to wow even the Scrooge in your family. So bundle up the kids and head out to one of these illuminating shows!

Christmas Fantasy with Lights (Egg Harbor Township)
November 17 – December 30
Head to Storybook Land this season for their spectacular holiday display, featuring over one million lights! Be sure to arrive by 5pm when Santa waves his magic wand to illuminate the lights. Mr. & Mrs. Claus can be visited in their home until December 23, when it’s time to return to the North Pole. All rides, attractions and snack bars are also open during this time. The park is open Monday-Friday 4:30-9pm and Saturday & Sunday 2-9pm. Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Admission is $22.95 plus tax per person. Children under 2 years are free.

Schaefer Farms Holiday Light Show (Flemington)
November 22 – January 1
Grab a hot cocoa and bring your family to Schaefer Farms for this wonderful seasonal tradition. From the comfort of your car, enjoy thousands of colorful farm and holiday themed lights in their drive-through display. And don’t forget to stop by their farm stand for Christmas trees, wreaths, decorations and more. Santa Claus will be visiting the farm the first three weekends in December, starting at 6pm, and photo opportunities with the big guy are available. Holiday Lights on The Farm is open Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday 5:30-9pm and Friday & Saturday 5:30-10pm. Cost is $12 per carload, $17 per passenger van and $27 per busload.

Holiday Lights Spectacular at Turtle Back Zoo (West Orange)
November 23 – January 1
Stroll through the zoo after dark to see the animals frolicking under the incredible light displays. Animal and holiday-themed figures, including wooden soldiers and stars, will illuminate the zoo and delight your little ones. Myrtle the Turtle, the zoo’s mascot, and other costumed characters will be on hand to greet visitors. Photographs with Santa are also available on Friday, Saturday and Sunday until December 23. The Holiday Lights Spectacular is open Friday, Saturday & Sunday 5-9pm. Also open weeknights starting December 17. Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Admission is free. Donations of non-perishable food, winter coats and unwrapped new toys are suggested.

Historic Smithville Holiday Light Show (Galloway Township)
November 23 – January 6
Watch as an orchestrated show of lights and music transforms historic Smithville in this beautiful holiday show. Over 100 Christmas trees will float along Lake Meone, lit up in harmony with the music playing through the night air. In addition to the light show, you can enjoy the myriad of shops and restaurants in the area before taking the Christmas train ride around the decorated village. The Holiday Light Show is held Thursday through Sunday from 5:30-8pm. Admission is free.

Holiday Festival of Lights (Camden)
November 24 – December 29
Visit the Camden Children’s Garden on Friday and Saturday nights for a chance to wander the grounds after dark, viewing over 100,000 holiday lights on display. Stop by “Santa’s Lodge” for a picture or drop off a letter to Santa at the “North Pole Post Office.” Children can also enjoy a holiday trains exhibit and animated Victorian figures. The Holiday Festival runs Friday & Saturday 5:30-8pm. Admission is $3 per person and free parking is available until 7pm.