Holiday Events at the Jersey Shore
Fourth of July, Christmas, New Year, and seasonal celebrations
56
Events
1
Major Festivals
44
Free Events
8
Months Active
Major Holiday Events
Costume parade down Asbury Avenue on the Thursday before Halloween.
Dickens village transformation kicks off Cape May holiday season.
Congress Hall’s holiday village on the lawn, Thanksgiving weekend through New Year’s Eve.
Thanksgiving-weekend holiday village in Excursion Park with Friday’s tree lighting.
Holiday parade on Asbury Avenue with Santa in a horse-drawn carriage.
Cape May MAC’s candlelight tour of decorated historic homes — December 5, 12 and 19.
Family-friendly New Year's Eve with drone shows and midnight fireworks.
Month-long spooky celebration with ghost walks and Scarecrow Alley.
Three-day holiday celebration with tree lighting, market, and cookie stroll.
Holiday lights, themed aquarium exhibits, and Santa on the boardwalk.
Historic Smithville Holiday Light Show
Smithville
100+ Christmas trees on Lake Meone synced to holiday music. Free.
Local Holiday Events
Fright Fest at Six Flags Great Adventure
Jackson • September 18 - November 1, 2026 Running now
Haunted Downtown Toms River
Toms River • October 24, 2026
Downtown Toms River Tree Lighting
Toms River • December 4, 2026
Ocean County Historical Society Holiday Open House
Toms River • November 2026
Holiday Express Benefit Concert at the Basie
Red Bank • December 2026
Hospitality Night at Historic Smithville
Smithville • December 2026
Already happened this year — 9 events
Wildwood Crest Christmas in July Festival & Boat Parade
Wildwood Crest • July 25, 2026 Already happened this year
North Wildwood Christmas in July with Santa Claus
North Wildwood • July 25, 2026 Already happened this year
Christmas in July at the Cape May Lighthouse
Cape May Point • July 25, 2026 Already happened this year
Holiday Events by Month
Holiday Events by County
Monmouth County
9
events
Ocean County
11
events
Atlantic County
5
events
Cape May County
31
events
Frequently Asked Questions
What holiday events are there at the Jersey Shore?
The Jersey Shore hosts 56 holiday events throughout the year. Fourth of July, Christmas, New Year, and seasonal celebrations
When is the best time for holiday events at the shore?
Holiday Events events happen throughout the year, with events in March, June, July, August, September, October, November, December.
Are there free holiday events at the Jersey Shore?
Yes, 44 of the 56 holiday events at the Jersey Shore are free to attend.