It’s amazing to think about and reminisce how the wonders of Christmastime look through the eyes of a child.
From the animated faces and characters of movies we still remember from childhood, to the innocent laughter while playing in fresh snow or warming up with a cup of hot chocolate.
There are many ways you can have such memorable Winter Wonderland experiences down the shore today.
In this guide, you’ll find special Winter Wonderland activities and events for:
Information listed here, including hours, dates/ times, features, and services, may vary and are subject to change without notice. Please contact event organizer directly to confirm or inquire. We will update this page as we receive more information.
Avalon and Stone Harbor
Avalon’s Thanksgiving Weekend and Stone Harbor’s Island Holiday Weekend are multi-day events that offer families and children of all ages a full lineup of free activities, entertainment, street performances, Christmas parades, tree lighting ceremonies, and more. It’s the time of year these beach towns transform into winter wonderlands, inspired by classic and romantic movies we’ve grown up watching every year, as well as memories and traditions we keep with every family generation. Making it easy to see why people come back each year, and join in on these timeless experiences to remember!
Looking to go ice skating down the shore this holiday season? You may want to check out ICONA Avalon‘s Sandbar Village. The ICONA Avalon Ice Skating Rink will be opening for the season on November 8, with special Festive Friday hours from noon to 8 pm and Thanksgiving Day hours from noon to 4 pm. The Rink will remain open for the season until February 25: on Fridays from 5 to 8 pm, Saturdays from noon to 8 pm, and Sundays from noon to 6 pm. (The exception to this is from December 22 through 26, when the Rink will be closed so the ICONA team can enjoy a holiday break.) Ninety-minute (90-minute) passes are $10, which includes skate rentals, and seasonal passes are available at $100. Rink access and skates are included with any booked stay for ICONA Avalon hotel guests.
During Island Holiday and Thanksgiving Weekend, the Women’s Civic Club of Stone Harbor invites visitors and residents to stroll through their winter wonderland by the beach and browse several beautifully decorated trees. This unique Festival of Trees takes place all day on Friday from 10 am to 8 pm, and half the day on Saturday from 10 am to noon.
Sea Isle City
Sea Isle City Chamber of Commerce and Revitalization invites you to explore a “Winter Village.” Excursion Park in Sea Isle City will transform into a Winter Wonderland on Friday and Saturday of Thanksgiving Weekend! Featuring a Shopping Village of holiday vendors on both days, and a variety of activities and events on Saturday including winter-themed bounce houses, an ice sculptor, holiday crafts, a visit with Santa and special guests, and more.
The Wildwoods
Christmas in North Wildwood is a multi-day event, featuring a scavenger hunt with prizes, outdoor firepits and hot chocolate, a strolling Santa, lights, decorations, and music – all during Thanksgiving Weekend.
Looking for a cozy beach bonfire to enjoy this holiday season? There’s one happening in North Wildwood on November 29 from 5 to 9 pm, where families and friends can enjoy Winter Wonderland characters, photos with Santa, and music. Entrance fee is $10 for adults, and $2 for kids 12 and under.
Wish the Boardwalk Season of fun and games never ended? Then this Winter Festival in downtown Wildwood may be just for you! Enjoy “Christmas in the Plaza” with free carnival rides, vendors, entertainment, and live music during this 2-day event taking place on December 6 and 7 at Byrne Plaza.
Bring the kids for a Family Holiday Celebration happening on December 14 starting from 9 am at the Wildwoods Convention Center. Families can enjoy a full day of holiday-themed movies, kids’ craft activities, face painting, live performances and entertainment, and more – before gathering for a special Tree Lighting Ceremony at 4:30 pm.
Cape May
Visiting Cape May this holiday season, or looking for a fun day trip? Just a short drive south from Avalon and Stone Harbor, you can discover a Winter Wonderland at Congress Hall. Offering a variety of holiday-themed attractions on the historic landmark property, including train and carousel rides, Breakfast with Santa events, Santa’s Workshop activities, and an enchanted Vendor Village reminiscent of old city Christmas markets.
Offshore
Want to get a little wild this holiday season? On Saturday, November 30 of Thanksgiving Weekend, you can also check out Santa’s Tree Lighting Celebration at the Cape May County Zoo. Featuring live music performances, bounce houses, character appearances, and a visit from Santa himself! Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place at 5 pm.
Want to add something to this list, or submit a correction? Contact us.
