Christmas down the New Jersey Shore brings coastal charm, glowing lights, festive markets, and family traditions to the Jersey Shore, making the holidays a truly special time. Throughout December, towns from Cape May to Asbury Park transform into a true holiday destination, filled with light shows, shopping villages, parades, winter activities, and beloved community celebrations. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or exploring festive towns nearby, this guide highlights the best holiday events, events, tree lighting ceremonies, Christmas villages, sweet treats, and winter attractions across the Jersey Shore.

Introduction to Holiday Events

The holiday season brings a special kind of magic to the Jersey Shore, transforming its iconic beaches and bustling boardwalks into a festive playground for all ages. From the twinkle of Christmas tree lighting ceremonies to the aroma of hot chocolate wafting through winter wonderland markets, the Jersey Shore is alive with holiday events and seasonal fun. Whether you’re strolling through Asbury Park’s Holiday Bazaar in search of unique holiday gifts, listening to a classic Christmas carol in Cape May, or enjoying the excitement of holiday shopping along Ocean City’s Asbury Avenue, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate.

Families, couples, and friends alike will find plenty of opportunities for holiday entertainment, from lively parades and craft workshops to cozy hot chocolate stations and festive night celebrations. The Jersey Shore’s rich history and vibrant communities come together to create a warm glow that makes every moment feel special. No matter your holiday tradition, the Jersey Shore offers a joyful escape filled with Christmas cheer, family entertainment, and unforgettable memories.

Holiday Events & Winter Wonderland Lights at the Jersey Shore

The Jersey Shore shines during the holiday season with spectacular light shows and winter wonderland displays. From glowing waterfront scenes to drive-through light displays, the coast offers some of the best Christmas lights in all of New Jersey.

Popular light experiences include:

• Historic Smithville’s Holiday Light Show, featuring over 100 floating, synchronized Christmas trees
•Magic of Lights at PNC Bank Arts Center, a mile-long LED display loved by families
• Asbury Avenue’s holiday lights in Ocean City, where parades, shopping, and seasonal events fill the streets

Families can enjoy coastal walks, warm sweet treats, and the glow of lights that make Christmas at the NJ Shore so memorable.

Many outdoor light shows and events have a scheduled rain date in case of inclement weather.

Cape May, NJ Christmas – Winter Wonderland Tours, Sweet Treats and Historic Charm

Cape May is known as one of the most festive towns on the East Coast during the holiday season. Victorian homes trimmed in garland, along with historic homes that reflect the area’s Civil War era heritage, horse-drawn carriages, and historic inns create an atmosphere straight out of a storybook.

Top Cape May holiday events include:

• Congress Hall Winter Wonderland with a festive village, Santa visits, and fire pits
• The Emlen Physick Estate Christmas tree lighting ceremony on November 23
• The annual Cape May Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 5:00 PM
• Washington Street Mall Holiday Shopping, featuring festive décor, twinkling lights, and classic horse-drawn carriage rides through Cape May’s charming historic district

With sweet treats from local favorites and beautifully decorated homes offering winter tours and festivities to match the excitement of a Polar Express golden ticket punch, Cape May delivers the ultimate Christmas Jersey Shore experience.

Ocean City Christmas on Asbury Avenue – Parades, Lights and Family Holiday Events

Ocean City’s holiday spirit centers around Asbury Avenue, where small businesses, restaurants, and boutiques, along with local merchants, create a charming holiday atmosphere and offer unique shopping opportunities during the holidays. The street glows with lights, Santa visits, carolers, and festive weekend events for families.

The Ocean City Christmas Parade, the Music Pier Christmas Train Show, and the Jolly Trolley Lights Tour are three favorites that draw locals and visitors every year. From sweet treats to seasonal performances, Asbury Avenue offers an inviting coastal holiday experience.

Jersey Shore Winter Wonderland: Holiday Bazaars and Festive Events

The Jersey Shore becomes a coastal winter wonderland each December. Congress Hall’s full holiday village, Asbury Park’s stylish shopping bazaar, and Ocean City’s festive events all add to the season’s magic. Visitors enjoy holiday cocktails, hot chocolate, fresh donuts, cookies, and seasonal desserts from local shops.

These sweet treats pair perfectly with light shows, downtown strolls, and festive nights out—including a visit to downtown Wildwood for holiday lights and celebrations.

Long Branch Holiday Magic – Pier Village Lights, Markets & Festive Coastal Events

Long Branch shines during the holiday season with beachfront events and seasonal charm. At Pier Village, visitors can enjoy:

• The Pier Village Holiday Lights Display, illuminating the boardwalk, shops, and restaurants
• Festive Shopping & Seasonal Pop-Ups throughout December, offering unique gifts and holiday treats
• Family-Friendly Holiday Experiences, including themed weekends, Santa appearances, and events hosted by local businesses

Long Branch’s oceanfront setting, vibrant dining scene, and festive décor make it one of the most picturesque places to celebrate Christmas at the Jersey Shore.

Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar

The Holiday Bazaar Series 2025 returns from November 28 to December 21, running every Friday–Sunday across three locations: the Grand Arcade of Convention Hall and The Asbury Hotel in Asbury Park, plus Whitechapel Projects in Long Branch. Inspired by classic European Christmas markets, the event showcases local makers, handcrafted gifts, and festive coastal décor.

Visitors can enjoy holiday music, food and drinks, photos with Santa, kids’ activities, and craft workshops, making it one of the Jersey Shore’s most popular Christmas traditions. Named the Best Holiday Market in New Jersey by Food & Wine Magazine, it’s the perfect place to shop, stroll, and celebrate the season.

Jenkinson’s Boardwalk New Jersey Shore Christmas – Holiday Events for Kids and Families

Jenkinson’s Boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach offers classic Jersey Shore holiday fun. From Santa visits to kid-friendly games and seasonal activities, it’s a favorite for families with young children.

Jenkinson’s Aquarium even hosts a post-Christmas experience where Santa dives into the tanks, creating a unique celebration that families love.

Wildwood Christmas Festivities – Holiday Lights, Parades & Family Fun

Wildwood transforms into a cheerful holiday destination with festive events that draw families from across New Jersey. Highlights include:

• North Wildwood Tree Lighting at the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse Courtyard, complete with free lighthouse tours, holiday treats, and caroling.
• Winter Wonderland at Byrne Plaza in Downtown Wildwood, where visitors enjoy a dazzling light show, pop-up vendors, photos with Santa, and seasonal entertainment.
• Wildwood Holiday Parade, filling the streets with floats, marching bands, and holiday cheer.

With festive décor throughout the island and special events happening all month long, Wildwood is a must-visit spot for Christmas at the Jersey Shore.

Jersey Shore Tree Lighting Events from Cape May to Long Branch

Tree lighting ceremonies along the Jersey Shore bring communities together with music, hot cocoa, live performances, and festive decorations.

Top tree lighting celebrations include:

• Cape May’s Emlen Physick Estate Tree Lighting
• Ocean City’s Music Pier Tree Lighting
• Asbury Park’s Grand Arcade Tree Lighting on November 29
• Wildwood Crest’s Sunset Lake Tree Lighting on December 1
• North Wildwood’s Hereford Inlet Lighthouse Courtyard Tree Lighting on December 7
• Byrne Plaza Christmas Tree Lighting in Wildwood
• Long Branch’s Festival Plaza Tree Lighting

Each town puts its own creative twist on the ceremony, offering everything from lighthouse tours to lakeside celebrations.

Festive Activities and Entertainment at the Jersey Shore

The Jersey Shore is bursting with festive activities and entertainment throughout the holiday season, offering something for every age and interest. As you explore the coast, you’ll discover a delightful mix of live music performances, holiday train rides, and craft workshops that invite you to get creative with seasonal projects. Many towns host family-friendly events like carriage rides through twinkling lights, pony rides for the kids, and even petting zoos and face painting at local holiday bazaars.

For those who love a sweet treat, you’ll find bakeries and pop-up stands serving up fresh donuts, cookies, and steaming cups of hot chocolate at every turn. Food trucks line the streets during parades and night celebrations, offering everything from festive snacks to hearty winter fare.

Don’t miss the chance to catch a holiday performance or Christmas carol sing-along, often held in historic venues or right on the boardwalk. Many events feature live entertainment, from local bands to children’s choirs, adding to the joyful atmosphere. Whether you’re shopping for handcrafted holiday gifts, snapping photos with Santa Claus, or simply soaking in the warm glow of the season, the Jersey Shore’s holiday events promise plenty of family entertainment and seasonal fun.

For a classic winter activity by the shore, the Atlantic City Skate Zone offers a perfect holiday escape. Families, couples, and friends can enjoy open public skating sessions on a professional-quality ice rink just minutes from the Atlantic City Boardwalk. With skate rentals available, seasonal music playing, and a festive atmosphere, it’s an easy and affordable way to add some holiday cheer to your Jersey Shore getaway. Whether you’re perfecting your spins or holding onto the rail, ice skating at the Skate Zone is a fun, memory-making activity for all ages during the Christmas season.

Festive Places to Dine – Holiday Pop-Up Bars and Events at the Jersey Shore

The Jersey Shore has fully embraced the trend of holiday pop-up bars and seasonal marketplaces, offering immersive environments, festive cocktails, themed décor, and family-friendly fun. Below is a detailed guide to the most popular holiday pop-up bars and restaurants from Cape May County to Monmouth County — each offering its own unique take on Christmas in NJ.

Cape May County Holiday Pop-Up Bars

Harry’s Jingle Bar

1025 Beach Avenue, Cape May
November 14 – December 31
Harry’s Ocean Bar + Grille transforms into Harry’s Jingle Bar, a full holiday pop-up with twinkling lights, themed décor, and a seasonal cocktail menu. The event includes breakfast with Santa, an ugly sweater contest, a Grinch party, and family-friendly entertainment. Perfect for festive dining with ocean views.

Miracle on 96th Street at AGAVE Tequila Bar

96th Street, Stone Harbor
November 26 – December 31
AGAVE Tequila Bar transforms into a holiday-themed cocktail experience filled with colorful décor, festive margaritas, themed bites, and photo ops. A lively addition to Stone Harbor’s winter scene.

Gingerbread Grille at Keenan’s Irish Pub

113 Olde New Jersey Avenue, North Wildwood
November 21 – December 31
Keenan’s becomes the Gingerbread Grille, offering gingerbread-inspired décor, colorful lights, winter cocktails, themed events, and holiday treats. A favorite in North Wildwood’s winter season.

Holidays at Hen-Ville – MudHen Brewing Company

127 W Rio Grande Avenue, Wildwood
November – December (various dates)
MudHen Brewing Company transforms into a full holiday venue with festive décor, themed dining spaces, seasonal craft beers, kids’ activities, and live entertainment. One of the most family-friendly pop-ups in the Wildwoods.

Port Marina — Exclusive Waterfront Holiday Dining Experience

Friday, December 12, 2025 | Seatings at 5 PM & 7 PM
Celebrate Christmas at the Jersey Shore with an elegant, limited-seating Holiday Reserve Dinner at Port Marina. Guests enjoy:

• A four-course chef-crafted dinner
• Two premium seasonal cocktails included
• Cozy indoor dining room decorated with refined holiday décor
• Post-dinner relaxation on the heated patio with fire pits
• Premium cigars included
• A serene waterfront ambiance perfect for the season

Jester’s Holiday Pop-Up (Jester’s Dive Bar)

Rio Grande, Cape May County
Open daily through the holiday season
Jester’s transforms into a full Christmas-themed pop-up with floor-to-ceiling décor, twinkling lights, holiday cocktails, comfort food, and festive family-friendly atmosphere. Their theme is inspired by classic, cozy, old-fashioned Christmas charm. Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner.

Atlantic County Holiday Pop-Up Bars & Festive Casino Experiences

Atlantic County—especially Atlantic City—shines during the holiday season with dazzling displays, themed entertainment, and immersive Christmas pop-up bars inside some of its most iconic casinos. Whether you’re visiting for the lights, the shows, the gaming, or just a little seasonal magic, these festive pop-up lounges offer unforgettable holiday experiences right along the Jersey Shore.

The Candy Cane Lounge – Resorts Casino Hotel, Atlantic City

Step into a world of peppermint sparkle at The Candy Cane Lounge, the must-see holiday pop-up bar inside Resorts Casino Hotel. Open throughout the Christmas season, the lounge transforms into a winter wonderland filled with twinkling décor, striped candy-cane accents, and cozy holiday ambiance. Guests can enjoy:

• Seasonal cocktails and holiday-themed drinks
• Live entertainment and festive music
• Insta-worthy décor perfect for holiday photos
• A cheerful atmosphere that captures the spirit of the season

Whether you’re exploring Atlantic City’s famous boardwalk or looking for a unique holiday-themed night out, the Candy Cane Lounge is an essential stop for seasonal fun.

Jingle Bell Bar – Ocean Casino Resort, Atlantic City

Celebrate the magic of the season at The Jingle Bell Bar inside Ocean Casino Resort, one of Atlantic City’s most exciting holiday pop-up experiences. This limited-time event blends festive flair with modern charm and includes:

• Creative, holiday-inspired cocktails
• Glamorous decor filled with sparkling lights and seasonal accents
• A lively yet cozy setting designed for friends, couples, and groups
• Fun photo moments in a fully decked-out Christmas atmosphere

Whether you’re visiting for the weekend, enjoying the shops and restaurants, or simply soaking in the holiday vibes, the Jingle Bell Bar delivers a merry, memorable, and picture-perfect seasonal escape.

Ocean County Holiday Pop-Up Bars

Sinner’s Christmas Experience – Sinner’s Steakhouse

20 Inlet Drive, Point Pleasant Beach
November 6 – January 4
Sinner’s Steakhouse transforms into a Christmas-themed pop-up featuring seasonal cocktails, holiday décor, festive desserts, and family-friendly dining.

Monmouth County Holiday Pop-Up Bars

Miracle at Avenue – Long Branch

23 Ocean Avenue | November 27 – December 28
The rooftop at Avenue becomes a chic winter wonderland overlooking the ocean. Guests can enjoy holiday cocktails, warm seasonal bites, sparkling décor, and cozy lounge areas ideal for photos and celebrations. Reservations are recommended for this Shore-side holiday experience.

Plan Your Christmas in NJ Getaway – Explore Jersey Shore Rentals for the Season

Make the most of your holiday experience by staying in one of the beautiful vacation homes listed on ShoreSummerRentals.com. These rentals offer comfort, space, and easy access to the best Christmas events in Cape May, Ocean City, Long Beach Island, Point Pleasant Beach, Wildwood, and more. And because you book direct with the owner, you avoid the extra taxes and booking fees charged by big third-party platforms—meaning more of your budget goes toward making holiday memories, not service fees.

Whether you’re planning a romantic winter escape, a family holiday vacation, or a festive beach trip with friends, Shore Summer Rentals provides the perfect home base for exploring all the Christmas activities in New Jersey—including night celebration events like New Year’s Eve festivities and First Night celebrations with live entertainment and fireworks.

If you have a Jersey Shore vacation rental and would like to list on ShoreSummerRentals.com, schedule a new host consult with Maria.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Jersey Shore truly shines during the holiday season, offering a unique blend of coastal charm, festive events, and heartwarming traditions. From the glow of Christmas tree lighting ceremonies to the excitement of holiday bazaars and the comfort of sweet treats and hot chocolate, every town along the shore brings its own special touch to the season. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, there’s no better way to experience the magic of Christmas down the New Jersey Shore than by immersing yourself in the local celebrations and community spirit.

For those looking to make the most of the holiday season, booking a vacation rental by owner through Shore Summer Rentals is the perfect way to enjoy comfort, convenience, and direct savings. With easy access to the best holiday events, family entertainment, and festive activities, your Jersey Shore holiday getaway is just a few clicks away. Celebrate the season, create new memories, and discover why the Jersey Shore is a top destination for holiday magic year after year.