Family-Friendly Holiday Activities in South Jersey (or Nearby) - 2025

The holiday season is soon to be in full swing — and there’s no better place to celebrate than right here in South Jersey (and just across the bridge in Philadelphia). From glowing light shows and Christmas markets to Santa train rides and outdoor skating, here are some of the most magical holiday activities in NJ and beyond to make this season bright.

Christmas Village in Philadelphia

LOVE Park & City Hall, Philadelphia, PA
November 22 – December 24, 2025 

This open-air market brings European Christmas magic to Center City. Modeled after traditional German Christmas markets, the Christmas Village in Philadelphia fills LOVE Park with wooden booths, twinkling lights, and the smell of mulled wine and waffles. Browse handmade gifts, ornaments, and crafts from international and local artisans while enjoying live entertainment and festive food.

More info: philachristmas.com

Ice Skating at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest

101 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA

Few things say winter quite like gliding across the ice under sparkling lights beside the Delaware River. The RiverRink Winterfest offers scenic skating, cozy fire pits, cabins for rent, and hot cocoa with a waterfront view. Whether you’re skating laps or relaxing rinkside, it’s one of the most iconic seasonal experiences near South Jersey.

More info: delawareriverwaterfront.com

DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express

1151 S. White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ 08037

Hop aboard one of South Jersey’s favorite holiday traditions. The Magical Holiday Express at DiDonato Family Fun Center features train rides through millions of lights, Santa and Mrs. Claus photo ops, free hot chocolate, and a glowing walk-through village.

More info: didonatofuncenter.com

Storybook Land Christmas Fantasy with Lights

6415 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234

Watch Santa light up the park every evening at Storybook Land, where beloved nursery rhymes come to life beneath a canopy of holiday lights. Ride the classic attractions, sip hot cocoa, and take in the vintage charm of this South Jersey favorite.

More info: storybookland.com

Diggerland Drive-Thru Holiday Light Show

100 Pinedge Drive, West Berlin, NJ 08091

Drive past glowing excavators and cranes decked in thousands of lights at Diggerland USA’s Light Show. Tune your radio to the synced holiday soundtrack and take in the construction-themed displays — no walking required.

More info: diggerlandusa.com

Santa’s Hideaway Adventure

Ocean Casino Resort – 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

Head to the Ocean Casino for a one-of-a-kind elevator ride straight to the North Pole. Santa’s Hideaway Adventure offers guests a virtual trip to meet Santa, grab hot chocolate and cookies, and shop festive finds at The Shop at Santa’s Hideaway.

More info: theoceanac.com

A Longwood Garden Christmas

Longwood Gardens – 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square, PA

Just over the border, Longwood Gardens delivers one of the most breathtaking displays around — light tunnels, decorated trees, model trains, and choreographed fountain shows make this a must-see holiday destination.

More info: longwoodgardens.org

Holiday Fun in Cape May

Downtown Cape May & Congress Hall

This Victorian seaside town goes all out for the holidays. Take a Santa’s Trolley Ride, shop downtown boutiques, or stay at Congress Hall for their famous Winter Wonderland complete with igloos, fireside dining, and photos with Santa.

More info: capemay.com

Vinter Wonderland at Renault Winery

72 N Bremen Ave, Egg Harbor City, NJ 08215

Enjoy tractor rides, skating, live music, and cozy fire pits surrounded by glowing lights at Renault’s Vinter Wonderland. It’s the perfect blend of holiday magic and vineyard charm.

More info: renaultwinery.com

Collingswood Menorah Lighting

Haddon Ave & Collings Ave, Collingswood, NJ

Celebrate the first night of Hanukkah with Collingswood’s annual menorah lighting, complete with music, blessings, and a joyful community gathering.

More info: collingswood.com

From dazzling light displays to European-style markets and Santa encounters galore, these holiday activities in New Jersey (and Philadelphia) are perfect for family fun, date nights, or cozy weekend getaways. Bundle up, grab a mug of cocoa, and start checking these festive experiences off your list.