The holidays are officially over, and we’re ready for a fresh start with a bunch of kid-friendly things to do this weekend with the fam. Bundle up and grab your ice skates for Winter Wonderland Skating in Middletown, search the night sky for key objects and constellations at Under the Winter Stars at Dorbrook Recreation Area in Colts Neck, or celebrate the phenomenon that is Wicked with giveaways and more fun at the Wicked Sing-A-Long in New Brunswick. And for more family-friendly fun, find one of the free things to do near you. (featured photo: Middletown Sports Complex)
(Note: It’s always best to check ahead for in-person events.)
Let It Glow
January 9-11
Catch the last few days of this light-up spectacular with stunning, larger-than-life lantern displays of animals and nature that will wow you and your littles. You can walk through the exhibits up close, then take a train ride through the zoo.
Cost: $9 and up
Bergen County Zoo, 216 Forest Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652
Winter Wonderland Skating
January 9-11
Grab your ice skates and head to this brand-new outdoor skating rink. This winter wonderland includes ice skating, igloo rentals, and fire pits to warm up to with the whole family.
Cost: $20 per adult and $15 per kid, additional fees for skate rentals, igloo rentals, and fire pit rentals
Middletown Sports Complex, 214 Harmony Road, Middletown, NJ 07748
Holidig Drive-Thru Light Show at Diggerland
January 9-11
It’s the last blast of the lights, tunnels, holiday displays, and more at America’s only construction-themed amusement park. Don’t forget to tune into Diggerland USA’s radio station as you drive.
Cost: $37.99
Diggerland USA, 100 Pinedge Drive, West Berlin, NJ 08091
WinterFest Ice Skating
January 9-11
Is there anything better than lacing up some skates and hitting the ice with the family? Bundle up for the cold winter weather and spend the day enjoying gliding across the ice.
Cost: Skate rentals and rink admission prices vary
Copper River Park, Cuthbert Boulevard and Park Avenue, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Winter Beach Walk at Fisherman’s Cove
January 10 at 11 AM
Take a Park System Naturalist guided walk along the beach at Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area, Manasquan, collecting and identifying some of the ocean’s natural treasures. Dress in warm clothing and bring along something to carry shells in. The walk will be an hour and a half.
Cost: Free
391 3rd Ave, Manasquan, NJ 08736
Under the Winter Stars at Dorbrook Recreation Area
January 10 at 7:30 PM
Take some time with the family to search the night sky for key objects and constellations. Bring a chair to sit on and a flashlight to help you see in the dark.
Cost: Free
Dorbrook Recreation Area, 353 County Road 537, Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Glow Party
January 10 at 5 PM
Wear your neon colors and head to this fun event that the whole family will enjoy. There will be dinner, dancing, photos, and so much glowing fun. Have a Girl Scout? They will receive a special event patch.
Cost: $25 per person
Waretown Firehouse, 117 Wells Mills Road, Waretown, NJ 08758
Parlor Games for Wintry Weather
January 10 at 12 PM
No winter blues here – enjoy time with the fam with some healthy competition. Take part in two 1890s board games, including Backgammon, Checkers, Reversi, Halma, and Basilinda.
Cost: Free
Longstreet Farm, 44 Longstreet Road, Holmdel, NJ 07733
Patacong Valley Model Railroad Open House
January 10-11
Take in the sights and sounds while exploring the layout of the Patacong Valley Model Railroad. It takes about 30-45 minutes to view the entire setup. Don’t miss the seek-and-find puzzles ranging from easy to hard.
Cost: Free
1308 US-40, Richland, NJ 08350
NJ Meadowlands Eagle Festival
January 11 at 10 AM
Celebrate this magnificent bird with walks and talks, music, and children’s educational activities, and see live raptors from Flat Rock Brook. Before you come, have the kids draw or paint eagle-themed artwork and bring it in to receive a prize while supplies last.
Cost: Free
Richard W. DeKorte Park, 1 DeKorte Park, Lyndhurst, NJ 07071
Winter FRESH
January 11
This indoor food and farm market is perfect for shopping with all your favorite Asbury FRESH food vendors.
Cost: Free
66 South Main Street, Ocean Grove, NJ 07756
Wicked Sing-A-Long
January 11 at 1 PM
Celebrate the phenomenon that is Wicked at this fun event for the whole family. Hosted by TikTok star Lexis Trechak, there will be giveaways, dancing, and, of course, singing to the movie.
Cost: $12 per person
State Theatre New Jersey, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Comic Book & Toy Show
January 11 at 10 AM
Calling all comic book lovers – this event is the perfect place to find all the goodies. From Funko Pops and vintage toys to exciting collectibles, there is something for everyone here.
Cost: $5 per person, and children 12 and under are free
New Egypt Elks Lodge #2457, 105 Lakewood Road, New Egypt, NJ 08533
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