The 2020 holiday season is finally upon us! Though celebrations may look and feel a bit different this year, the holiday season in Hunterdon County will still be a memorable and meaningful experience. Whether it is an exciting excursion or a calm, relaxing moment in time, there is an activity or event for all. Strap on your warmest gear, work up an appetite and prepare to indulge in the best seasonal fare and activities Hunterdon County has to offer this year!

Read on for:

Holiday Events & Celebrations
Christmas Tree Farms
Eat, Drink & Be Merry
#LoveLocal Gift Guide

Holiday Events & Celebrations:

Indulge in tried & true classic holiday celebrations and events and also create new traditions with brand-new spectacles festivities:

Gingerbread House Display and Lights at Peddler’s Village 

When: November 19 through January 9
Where: Street Road and Route 263, Lahaska

Stroll the village, indulge in holiday shopping and festive treats and check out the annual Gingerbread House Displays.

Peddler’s Village Family Mystery Walking Tours: Elf on the Stealth:

When: Fridays, November 20 through January 10. Fridays at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Saturdays on the hour from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Sundays on the hour from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Street Road and Route 263, Lahaska

It’s almost Christmas, and the Elf on the Shelf is missing! Join Mrs. Claus at the “North Pole” for a walking tour and help solve the mystery of the missing Elf on the Shelf.Tickets are $25 per person. It does not include dinner, but you can enjoy dinner before or after the show and receive a 10% discount at select restaurants by showing your receipt. Tours are limited to 20 people per tour and masks are required. Purchase tickets HERE.

A Longwood Christmas

When: November 20, 2020-January 10, 2021; Gardens open daily, 10am-11pm; timed admissions tickets are required: $25 for adults 19 and older, $22 for seniors 65 and older & college students with ID, $18 for military and vet, $13 for youth ages 5-18.
Where: Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348

Light up the holiday season amid festive twinkling trees and plant palettes in shades of winter whites, reds and deep evergreens. Explore favorites like poinsettias and other festive plants and flowers within the observatory. Head outside and take in the famed Garden Railway, a display of 31 locomotives, steam engines, diesel engines, specialty engines and even childhood favorite, Thomas the Tank Engine! Becoming a “tunnel of light,” for the holidays, it is a fun way to add delight to the season.

Enjoy holiday music from Rob Dickenson & The Brandywine Christmas Minstrels while taking in the outdoor displays. Don’t forget to take in the transfixing open-air theatre fountain shows!

Find out more HERE.

A Very Furry Christmas and Furry & Bright Christmas Drive-Thru Experience at Sesame Place

When: November 21, 2020-January 3, 2021
Where: Sesame Place, 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, PA 19047

Join Sesame characters to celebrate the holiday season at their annual A Very Furry Christmas event! At $20.99 (limited time only, check website for the most accurate pricing), for single day tickets for ages two and up, the park is transformed into a spectacle of twinkling lights, festive décor and sights and sips for those of all ages to enjoy!

Take in the “1-2-3 Christmas Tree Show,” a brand-new music and light show featuring a 30-foot, fully animated tree! Watch in amazement as the trees project images and sing along to the holiday soundtrack in accompaniment! Be sure to hop on the Sesame Place Furry Express for both a fun train ride, plus an exclusive tour of The TwiddleBugs’ Gingerbread Factory!

If you’re not comfortable walking around the park, you can also visit from the comfort of your own vehicle! This year, there is a brand-new Furry & Bright Christmas Drive-Thru! Priced at $45 per car, on select dates on Tuesdays & Wednesdays from 5-8pm, between November 10-December 23. Take a journey through a festive Winter delight amid twinkling lights, décor, holiday music and even falling snowflakes creating the illusion of a Winter snowfall. Also delight in an illuminated, 9-foot Menorah to commemorate Hanukkah and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for Santa!

Find out more HERE.

Christmas Village in Philadelphia

When: Preview Weekend is November 21-22. Officially opens on Thanksgiving Day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. After that, Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: LOVE Park and City Hall Courtyard, Philadelphia

The Christmas Village in Philadelphia is one tradition that is committed to providing a safe and fun experience this year!

The authentic open-air German-style Christmas Market at LOVE Park and City Hall will return from Thanksgiving Day, November 26 through Christmas Eve, December 24. Keeping in mind the health of vendors and guests, there will be a considerably modified layout and extensive safety precautions in response to COVID-19.

The Nutcracker Channel by Roxey Ballet

When: Thanksgiving Day through January 1, 2021
Where: roxeyballet.org/virtual-performances

The 2020 virtual version of the American Holiday Classic “The Nutcracker” is available online through Roxy Ballet’s Nutcracker Channel. See behind-the-scenes-footage, live streamed rehearsals, interviews, the “Sugar Plum Fairy Adventure” dance class series and “Women of the Year” Choreography Lab featuring 5 NJ Choreographers creating works relating to women’s social issues.

Dicken’s Days

When: Friday, November 27, 10 a.m. -Sunday, November 28, 9 p.m.
Where: Downtown Clinton

Take a trip back in time to Victorian Clinton with horse and carriage rides, carolers and experience the magic of the season.

Toys for Tots Collection

When: Friday, November  27 – Sunday, December 13, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Walmart, 150 Route 31 in Flemington

The Marine Corps League Detachment 927 and The Hunterdon County Bulldogs will be collecting new unwrapped toys at the Walmart in Flemington starting on Black Friday through the following 2 weekends.

Macy’s Santaland at Home Virtual Holiday Experience

When: Friday, November 27, 2020-Thursday, December 24, 2020
Where: A virtual event; online from anywhere of your choosing, visit the website for the latest information and relevant links:

With health, safety and the wellbeing of all at the heart of Macy’s initiatives, the holiday season led by Santa at Macy’s is going completely virtual this year! Starting November 27^th and running through Christmas Eve, children of all ages and their families will be provided with FREE access to Macy’s Santaland at Home Virtual Experience!

In the online hub, children will be able to travel virtually through Macy’s Santaland at Herald Square in New York City! Meet and greets with the Elves, meeting Santa himself, via interactive video can all be enjoyed! Even better, all kids will be able to snap an “interactive selfie,” with Santa to complete the holiday experience, 2020-style! Get more information HERE.

Annual Covered Bridge Artisans Holiday Studio Tour

When:  Weekends, Friday, November 27 through Sunday, December 20  from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The 2020 fall studio tour will take place online where you can visit your favorite artists in their virtual studios via Zoom. For more information, visit www.coveredbridgeartisans.com/event-center-artists.

Winter Village and Festival of Trees at the Red Mill

When: Kick off is Friday, November 27 – Sunday, November 29, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: The Red Mill Museum Village, 56 Main Street, Clinton

Featured Christmas trees, designed and decorated by community members, local businesses and organizations, will be displayed on the grounds of the Red Mill Museum Village as well as an outdoor holiday market hosted by Marketspace Vendors with more than 40 vendors. While the holiday market is only the weekend after Thanksgiving, Trees will be on display on Saturdays and Sundays through December 20^th.

Holiday Garden Railway at Morris Arboretum

When: Friday, November 27 through December 31 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and select nights from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Where: 100 E. Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia

Visitors of all ages will be wowed by a quarter mile of track featuring seven loops and tunnels with fifteen different rail lines and two cable cards, nine bridges, and more! It’s all set in a lovely winter garden with all of the displays and building made of natural materials. Advance tickets are required and can be purchased HERE.

Winter on Broad Street: A Holiday Light Spectacular!

When: November 27, 2020-January 3, 2021; Sun-Thurs: 5-10pm; Fri-Sat: 5-11pm; Tickets – Adults 14 and older – $32.50, Children 13 and younger – $27.50, children under 5 are FREE
Where: Wells Fargo Center, 3601 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148

Offered for the first time ever, join the Wells Fargo Center for Winter on Broad Street! Strap on your warmest boots and attire and stroll through 160,000 sq ft of an outdoor winter wonderland! Take in various light installations and sculptures which include: a 25 ft reindeer, 20ft ornament, an enchanted forest, “Under the Tree” pop-up with life-size, lit toys and much more!

Also indulge in seasonal sweet treats and beverages while you stroll, such as spiked ciders and cocoas, Chickie’s & Pete’s crab fries, Bavarian pretzels and more!

Find out more HERE.

Downtown Somerville Small Business Saturday

When: Saturday, November 28, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Main Street, Somerville

Visit Downtown Somerville on Small Business Saturday, November 28 2020 for a full day of sidewalk sales, in-store events, raffles, entertainment, and art including a new outdoor Holiday Artisan Market on North Bridge Street. Individuals must maintain a distance of 6+ feet, and all attendees are expected to wear masks during this event at all times

Wreath and Sleighbell Sale

When: Saturday, November 28, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: Howell Living Farm, 70 Woodens Lane, Lambertville

Visitors are invited to lend support to the farm’s community outreach programs by bringing canned goods for donation to area food banks and soup kitchens. At the visitor center, the Friends of Howell Farm will hold their annual Wreath & Sleighbell Sale, featuring straps of bells made by the farm’s harnessmaker.

Parking and admission are free. For more information, call the farm at (609) 737-3299.

Annual Holiday Party

When: Sunday, November 29, 2:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: Prallsville Mill, 33 Risler Street, Stockton

Refreshments will be provided at this free holiday fest, with a Storytime for Children given by Mill Docent Anna P. Wyman. Horse and carriage rides, photo opportunities with decor from Oleander Decor, and extra special surprises when Santa rides into Stockton. The festivities are topped off with a tree lighting ceremony at 5:30 p.m.

Lambertville Magic Scavenger Hunt & Giveaway

When: Now through December 29
Where: 13 locations in Lambertville

A bear sighting in Lambertville may bring good news this season.
Thirteen Lambertville merchants have banded together to produce a scavenger hunt. There are small, adorable polar bears at 13 locations throughout Lambertville, ranging from retail shops to restaurants. Once you find them, you can enter a drawing to win a basketful of gift certificates and a bear.
Homestead Market, at 262 North Main Street, is the kick-off point. You will find Magic the Bear there and receive your first clue. However, the hunt is designed to be circular, so you can start wherever you find your first bear. On Saturdays and Sundays, Magic comes to life at the Lambertville Station, where she hands out candy canes.
Then, just follow the clues from place to place and enjoy visiting your friendly Lambertville merchants. Some bears are positioned in the windows of the businesses and some are hidden inside. The clues (in rhyme) should guide you to the correct place. When you complete the hunt, you can enter a drawing to win a Basket of Lambertville Magic. Just scan the QR code located at every participating merchant and enter your name and email address, and a winner will be chosen randomly to win a basket full of gift certificates and your very own Magic the Bear.
Participating merchants are Homestead Market, Humble Café and Bakery, Lambertville Trading Company, Lambertville Station Restaurant, Meta Café, Sojourner, Perch, Union Jack, Blue Raccoon, Le Chocolate Box, Savour, A Mano, and 13 North of Normal.

Annual Clinton Christmas Parade

Where: Main Street, Clinton
When: Friday, December 4, 6 p.m.- 9 p.m.

This year’s parade will be a drive through town only parade.

Holiday Shopping Kick off to Benefit Mane Stream

When: Friday, December 4 – Saturday, December 5, 11 a.m.- 6 p.m.
Where: LeFash Inc., 44 Old Turnpike Road, Oldwick

Kick off the holiday shopping season with a special event that allows you to shop for gifts while also giving back.  A portion of all sales will go directly to Mane Stream, a therapeutic riding facility in Oldwick. Shoppers can enjoy festive refreshments, limited edition product reveals, a trunk shows with Katharine Page &Samshield, meet the author of Once, A Cat- an anti-bullying children’s book.

Curbside pick up, private shopping either in person or virtually, are available.

The 21^st Annual 92.5 XTU Toy Truck Parade

When: Saturday, December 5, 2020, 8am-1pm
Where: Xfinity Live Parking Lot, 1100 Pattison Avenue, Philadelphia

Join Philadelphia-based country music radio station, 92.5 XTU at Xfinity Live! for their annual toy truck parade! Unlike other years, this year’s parade will be held in a drive-thru style! Decorate your truck/vehicle in festive holiday gear and décor and be judged by XTU personalities; you may even win a prize!

Be sure to bring along a toy donation, snap a photo and then be on your way!

High Bridge Holiday Car Parade

When: Saturday December 5,  6 p.m.
Where: Maryland Avenue, High Bridge.

The High Bridge Business Association with the help of Cert, HBPD, and HBFD will be hosting a holiday parade this year.

To  join in the parade, meet on Maryland Avenue at 5 p.m. with your car decorated to express your holiday traditions. If you live along the route, please feel free to decorate BIG this year. Make some noise as the parade travels down your street.  If you don’t live along the route, feel free to visit your favorite Main Street Business for front row seats. Please maintain 6′ distancing and wear a mask. Parade will end at Union Forge Park.

Christmas On the Farm Tour

When: Saturday, December 5, 10 a.m. – Sunday,  December 6,  4 p.m.
Where: Country Fresh Farms, 70 W. Asbury Anderson Road, Hampton.

Indulge in cider, apples, food and drink; pet farm animals, or peruse the wares of vendors and crafters. Custom grave blankets and wreaths will also be for sale.

Christmas Market

When: Saturday, December  5- Sunday,  December  6, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: Black Shed, 343 Route 519, Kingwood

Celebrate the season and holiday inspirations of decor, gifts, Christmas treats and more.  Meet local artisans and vendors while enjoying a cup of hot chocolate and make your own s’mores.

Flemington Moose Wreath Sale

When: Saturday, December 5 -Sunday December 6,10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Where: Flemington Moose Lodge, 81 Barley Sheaf Road, Flemington

Enjoy free hot chocolate and candy canes. Wreathes are 24 inches with a red bow for $22.

Stuff an Elf and Mail Your Letter to Santa

When: Saturday, December 5 11 a.m.
Where: Chirp Workshop, 32 Fulper Street, Flemington

Stuff your own elf and mail your letter to Santa. Parents, please bring a self addressed stamped envelope.

Thursday Night Holiday Lights

When: Thursdays, December 10-24, 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
Where: Downtown Flemington

Main Street, Stangl Road and Mine Street will feature caroling, antique fire truck rides, beautiful luminaries, visits from Santa and Paw Patrol, a wine tasting, live music and great shopping including special offers and fun activities from local businesses. A holiday trolley will link Main Street, Mine, and Sating Road. Sponsored by Flemington ShopRite.

Clinton Menorah Lighting

When: Thursday, December 10, 6: 30 p.m.
Where: 7 Lower Center Street, Clinton

City of Lambertville Annual Tree Lighting

When: Saturday, December 12 at 4:30 p.m.
Where: City Hall, Corner of Bridge and South Union Streets

Chanukah Drive-in

When: Sunday, December 13, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Where: The New Chabad Center, 56 Payne Road, Lebanon

A live Chanukah concert with The Shira Band, featuring Keith Leaf’s dynamic fire show and a 4-D Chanukah video truck. Includes a grand Menorah lighting and personal craft and food bags for attendees.

City of Lambertville Chanukah Menorah Lighting

When: Saturday, December 16 at 6:30 p.m.
Where: City Hall, Corner of Bridge and South Union Streets

Candlelight Night

When: Thursday, December 17, 9 p.m.
Where: Downtown Clinton

See the town of Clinton illuminated by candlelight.

Annual Music Mountain Theater Big Band Holiday Concert

When: Friday, December 18, 8 p.m.; Saturday, December 19, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Sunday, December 20, 3 p.m.
Where: 1483 Route 179, Lambertville

A festive evening of song and dance combining quintessential holiday music in the style of Mariah Carey, Rosemary Clooney, Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, and more, performed by some of your favorite MMT personalities. This annual event is the perfect way to share our holiday spirit with our wonderful community. Friday night’s performance includes the option of listening from the comfort of your car!. You can purchase Drive in tickets for Friday night performance’s of A Holiday Concert, all you have to do is call the box office for your ticket!

The Run Before Christmas

When: Saturday, December 19,  8 a.m.
Where: Red Mill Museum, 56 Main Street, Clinton

Join this third annual Clinton holiday tradition the “Run Before Christmas – Santa Con 8k. Post race food provided by the Towne Restaurant with proceeds benefiting to the Red Mill Museum. Please note, holiday (Santa) gear requested, and masks will be mandated (hint, they’re giving you a mask beard to complete your ensemble).

Witchery Winter Solstice Dance Celebration

When: Sunday, December 20, 1 p.m.
Where: Hunterdon Art Museum, 7 Lower Center Street, Clinton

Internationally renowned fiber artist Cynthia Alberto will be on the Hunterdon Art Museum’s Toshiko Takaezu Terrace, for an outdoor dance open to the public. Attendees will be able to wear woven fiber artworks called “Cocoons.” The artist will also teach a short, simple dance choreographed specifically for the “Cocoons.”

68th Annual Christmas Day Crossing Re-enactment

When: Friday, December 25, noon- 3 p.m.
Where: Washington Crossing Historic Park, 1112 River Road, Washington Crossing,

Each December, thousands of people gather on the banks of the Delaware River to watch the reenactment of George Washington’s daring 1776 Christmas night river crossing. During the event, several hundred reenactors in Continental military dress listen to an inspiring speech by General Washington and then row across the river in replica Durham boats.

Christmas Tree Farms

Black Oak Farm

9 Black Oak Lane, Asbury
Black Oak Farm will be open 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays from November 27^th thru December 20^th. Monday-Wednesday, by appointment only.

Charlie Brown Christmas Tree Farm

231 Adamic Hill Rd., Milford
Open: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, Saturday, Sunday, starting November 27th

Cherryville Farms

352 Quakertown Road, Pittstown
Open: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, November 27th, then Saturdays and Sundays until Christmas

Cole’s Country Tree Farm

478 County Road 579 Alexandria Twp
Open: Daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from November 27^h through December 23^rd. All trees $65.

Deerfield Farm

14 Pulaski Road, Whitehouse Station
Open: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays starting December 5th

The Evergreen Farm

4 Bass Lane, Lebanon, NJ
Open: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., every weekend between November 21st until December 20th, including Black Friday

Holly Bough Christmas Tree Farm

88 Cole Rd., Whitehouse Station
Open: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on November 27th, then Saturdays and Sundays through December 20th

Martin Family Tree Farm

70 Manners Road, East Amwell
Open: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday afternoons, Saturday and Sunday from November 27^th through December 20^th.

Rosemont Tree Farm

131 Kingwood-Stockton Rd., Stockton
Call for hours and times.

Wildflower Meadows

163 Old Franklin School Rd., Pittstown
Open: Daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., November 27th until December 24 (during the week, it’s best to call prior)

Eat, Drink & Be Merry

Basil Bandwagon

Looking to spread some holiday cheer? Whether you have family far or near, celebrate the holidays with Basil Bandwagon’s Basil Boxes! Choose from a variety of gift options to send to your loved ones at an affordable price. Feeling under the weather or nervous your immune system isn’t ready for this holiday season? Their Wellness Ambassadors are always available in the aisles to help with individual health needs. They are experts in locating the right foods, vitamins and supplements to keep you and your immune system strong! Check out Basil Bandwagon’s online shopping experience to find everything you need this season at www.shopbasil.com.

Nourishing Hunterdon County for more than 25 Years, Basil Bandwagon will have curb-side pick-up and delivery service throughout the holidays along with pre-ordered holiday meals. Vegan and gluten-free options are available. Voted Best Grocery Store on the Hunterdon Happening List.

Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn

11 Bridge Street, Lambertville

Offering curb-side pickup and pre-ordered holiday meals, Lambertville Station has limited indoor seating, so make your reservation early. They are also offering outdoor dining as long as they can, with outdoor heaters working to keep things cozy. Hunterdon Happening List Winner for Best Outdoor Dining.

15 Landsdowne Catering

29 Race Street, Frenchtown

Whether you are looking for a classic Thanksgiving, Christmas or Hanukkah meal,this Hunterdon Happening List Winner for Best Caterer will ensure that it’s as magical as the season.

Chocolate in the Oven

53 Bridge Street, Milford

Indulge your sweet tooth this holiday season with baked goods from this Hunterdon Happening List Winner for Best Bakery.

Cocoa Bombs

When: Sunday, December 5, 10:30 a.m.- noon
Where: Candyland Crafts, 44 West Somerset Street, Raritan

Learn how to make hot cocoa bombs using milk, white or dark chocolate by melting chocolate, filling chocolate molds and then fill with hot cocoa and marshmallows. Geared to ages 12 and up. Masks are required.

Light Up the Vines

When: December 5, 2020 at 5 p.m. -January 2, 2021 at 8 p.m.
Where: The Bucks County Wine Trail, each of the seven wineries: Bishop Estate, Buckingham Valley Vineyards, Crossing Vineyards, Rushland Ridge Vineyards, Sand Castle Winery, Wycombe Vineyards and Rose Bank Winery, will be offering their own unique take on the first annual holiday event

Kicking off at 5pm on December 5, head to the seven wineries/vineyards of The Bucks County Wine Trail and delight in twinkling and festive holiday lights adorning the grounds. Take in mulled wines, savory and sweet fare from local food trucks, fire pits, holiday music and more! For more information, check the event WEBSITE.

Wine Glass Paint and Sip

When: Saturday, December 12, 5 p.m.
Where: Top of the Hill Studios, High Bridge

Come enjoy a night out with friends and paint a wine glass. Bring your own design or choose from supplied samples. Cost is $35 per person and includes food and painting supplies. Event will be held inside with social distancing. Masks are required. Limited to 8 people.

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