He’s making a list and checking it twice—yes, Santa in NJ is back, and he’s coming to a town near you. Stop by any of these malls, towns, festivals, and villages, where kids can visit with the elves or special characters, share their wish list with Santa, and get memorable photos to keep. From an old-fashioned celebration to an indoor snowy adventure, there are plenty of places in the Garden State to see Santa this season—ho, ho, ho! And if you want more holiday fun, don’t miss the Santa train rides in NJ. (featured photo credit: Short Hills Mall)
(It’s best to check ahead for in-person events)
Where To See Santa In NJ
It’s time to visit Santa this year. Photo Credit: Bridgewater Commons
Magical Encounters – November-December, select dates
Meet a true-to-life Santa Claus in a realistic and whimsical setting to interact with for 25 minutes of private, uninterrupted time, where your kids will sit down for a professional photography session featuring their visit with Santa. There is also a Hanukkah and Green Guy Experience available.
62 East Main Street, Freehold, NJ 07728
The Santa Experience – Select dates available in November
At this private photography studio, your kids will creatively pose with this photogenic Santa in NJ to create a memorable keepsake. From different scenes and setups to one-on-one time with the Big Guy and delicious cookies, your kids will feel the magic and be mesmerized by meeting Santa in a private Christmas wonderland.
Branchburg, NJ 08876
Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops – November 2-December 24
In AC? Head over to the Bass Pro Shops for an exciting visit with Santa. He arrives on November 2, and the photos start on November 3. Kids will experience the magic of Santa’s Wonderland and receive a free 4×6 keepsake photo and free shareable video. Reservations are recommended for your visit.
Bass Pro Shops, 30 N Christopher Columbus Blvd., Atlantic City, NJ 08401
Photos with Santa at Deptford Mall – November 7-December 24
Round up your crew to snap a photo with St. Nick and visit Santa’s Toy Shop. Don’t miss the Christmas Parade and Celebration with Santa on November 16, Pet Photos with Santa on November 11, 18, 25, and December 2, and look out for PJ Parties with Mrs Claus on November 21 and December 5.
Deptford Mall, 1750 Deptford Center Road, Deptford Township, NJ 08096
Santa at Menlo Park Mall – November 7-December 24
Dress up the kids for that festive photo and yearly magical moment with Santa. Experience Santa’s arrival with a parade, music, performers, and a dance party on November 9; Caring Santa ® will greet special needs visitors for a private experience on December 8 and save the date for pet photos on November 17 and December 1.
Menlo Park Mall, 55 Parsonage Road, Edison, NJ 08837
Santa’s Flight Academy at The Mall at Short Hills – November 7-December 24
Bring your littles to learn the sled ropes and join Santa’s Flight Crew at Short Hills Mall. Children will help Santa in NJ guide his sleigh and help him deliver gifts all around the world. When you meet up with the big guy, your kiddos can be a part of an immersive photo experience where they can dance during a magical snowfall party in Santa’s sleigh. And don’t miss Santa Paws on November 10.
The Mall at Short Hills, 1200 Morris Tpke., Short Hills, NJ 07078
Photos with Santa at Freehold Raceway Mall – November 7-December 24
The magic of the holiday season comes alive with a visit to Santa’s Winter Wonderland. Located at Lower Level, Zara Court, a visit with Santa is always free, and photo packages are available for purchase. There will be events throughout the month, like Santa Cares, for a sensory-friendly experience.
Freehold Raceway Mall, 3710 US 9, Freehold, NJ 07728
Santa Arrives at Westfield Garden State Plaza – November 7-December 24
Ho ho ho—skip the line by making a reservation before you visit Santa this year. Santa Paws are on most Mondays, PJ Parties are every Tuesday, Baby’s First is every Wednesday, and Ugly Sweater Parties are every Thursday.
Westfield Garden State Plaza, One Garden State Plaza, Paramus, NJ 07652
Pictures with Santa at Willowbrook – November 7- December 24
Santa will hold court by Bloomingdale’s Exhibit Court at Willowbrook, where kids can share their wish lists, and you can purchase photos. After, pick up something sweet at the charming candy shop, Lolli & Pops.
1400 Willowbrook, Wayne, NJ 07470
SPONSORED
Photo Credit: Ocean Casino Resort
Santa’s Hideaway Adventure – November 9-December 24
Santa returns on November 9! An exclusive magical experience awaits you at the Shops at the Row this holiday season at Ocean Casino Resort! This is a virtual adventure you don’t want to miss. After the grand adventure, you’ll have the chance to meet with Santa. Upon exiting this magical experience, visit The Shop at Santa’s Hideaway Adventure for all your favorite holiday gifts.
500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401
Santa And Special Days at the Cherry Hill Mall – Santa arrives November 9
Santa is coming to town with some fun events. Stop by Santa’s Arrival Celebration, which includes a live DJ, face painting, balloon artist, magician, and special holiday characters. There will also be a Giving Tree from November 18-December 16. Make sure to check ahead for dates and times.
Suite 514, 2000 Route 38, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Santa’s Hideaway Adventure at Ocean Resort – November 9-December 24
Take an adventure that transports you from the Atlantic City Boardwalk to the North Pole, where you’ll find Santa’s Secret Hideaway. Meet the man himself after exiting this magical elevator experience. Then, stay overnight in one of their special holiday hotel rooms to keep the magic going.
Santa at The Quaker Bridge Mall – November 14-December 24
Santa arrives on November 14. Look out for Caring Santa days and book your Santa experience photos ahead of time to secure your spot.
3320 US-1, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
American Dream’s Holiday Dreamland – November 15-December 23
Visit Santa at American Dream’s Holiday Dreamland, and snap your yearly Santa photo. Find a gift for everyone on your list with over 200 places to shop and dine. Stroll through American Dream’s snow-covered Winter Wonderland, and while you are there, you won’t want to miss American Dream’s many holiday events for the whole family.
Court C, Level 1, 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073
Santa Photo Experience at Newport Centre – November 15-December 23
Bring the little ones and see their eyes light up when they see Santa Claus this holiday season. Starting November 15, Santa will be available for photos with the kids. Reservations are recommended, and you can also book a day with Santa and Fido.
30 Mall Drive West, Jersey City, NJ 07310
The Mills at Jersey Gardens – November 15-December 24
Reservations are encouraged, but walk-ups are welcome to see Santa at The Mills at Jersey Gardens. With reservations, your kiddos will get a personalized digital message from the man in the red suit.
651 Kapkowski Road, Elizabeth, NJ 07201
DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express – November 16-December 23, select dates
Have your crew ride aboard a train through millions of Christmas lights and then do a meet and greet with Santa and his elves in his workshop. Don’t miss the Holiday Movie tent, taking a photo with your favorite snowman, and the Toy Market and Walkthrough Holiday Village.
1151 South White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ 08037
Santa at Bridgewater Commons – November 16 – December 24
He’s back! Santa will begin welcoming children of all ages for visits and photos filled with holiday magic. Located in Center Court on the shopping center’s Lower Level, visits to Santa Celebration will begin Saturday, November 16, through Sunday, December 24.
Bridgewater Commons, Lower Level, and Center Court, 400 Commons Way, Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights Spectacular -starting in late November
Stroll under the sparkling lights of over 50 winter and animal characters, then stop by Santa’s workshop to take a picture with the man himself. Check the schedule before you go—Santa has to make quick trips back to the North Pole and isn’t always on the property. Celebrate the season of giving with donations, which are always appreciated.
Turtle Back Zoo West Orange, NJ 07052
Santa Photos at Cumberland Mall – Santa’s arrival on November 22
Capture the magic of the holidays through the eyes of your little ones with a picture with Santa. Dress up for Santa’s Arrival on November 22 and get ready for their Grinchmas Party on December 14.
Cumberland Mall, 3849 S. Delsea Drive, Vineland, NJ 08360
Collingswood Holiday Events – November 23-December 22
Spend the season celebrating, starting with a Holiday Tree Lighting and Ice Carving on November 29 and a Holiday Parade on November 30. Make sure you get your list to Santa (he’ll be around every weekend) and spend several nights of December watching live performances, listening to live music, and strolling along the sidewalk admiring the festive lights.
Collingswood, NJ 08108
Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms – November 23-December 30
Start your engine and explore 32 acres of holiday light displays at Demarest Farms. You can also warm up by the fire pit with s’mores, enjoy hot cocoa and treats in the retail farm market, and take pictures with Santa while listening to Santa’s reindeer singing.
Demarest Farms, 244 Wierimus Rd., Hillsdale, NJ 07642
If you want a private session with Santa with beautiful photos, you won’t want to miss The Santa Experience. Photo Taken at Magical Encounters in Freehold.
Santa Claus is Coming to MarketFair – November 21-December 24
Grab the little ones and meet Saint Nick at MarketFair. Reservations are strongly recommended but not required. See Sensory-Friendly Santa on December 8, 2024.
MarketFair, 3535 US Highway 1, Princeton, NJ 08540
Visit with Santa at Johnson’s Corner Farm – November 22-December 23
Get ready to snap a ton of photos with Santa Claus at this event, which features their famous Light Show on the Lake. Take a lighted hayride, decorate a cookie, or roast a s’more on an open fire.
Johnson’s Corner Farm, 133 Church Road, Medford, NJ 08055
Holiday in the Park – November 23-January 1, select dates
Hit your favorite theme park at night to see it completely decked out in colorful lights and mingle with the couple of the hour, Santa and Mrs. Claus. Ride the roller coasters—there are plenty of smaller ones perfect for your kiddos—and enjoy the street entertainment all over the park. Finish the night with a festive treat, like a cup of hot chocolate, yummy cider, and fried s’mores.
Six Flags Great Adventure, 1 Six Flags Blvd., Jackson Township, NJ 08527
Santa-by-the-Sea at Pier Village – November 25
Kick off the holiday season by taking photos with Santa next to a 24-foot tree. After the tree is lit, enjoy shopping while looking at the window displays, enjoying the festive cheer, and listening to the Christmas Carolers.
Pier Village, Long Branch, NJ 07740
Avalon’s Thanksgiving Weekend – November 28-30
Kick off the holiday season in Avalon with a whole weekend of activities. On Friday, there will be a 5K run and 1.5-mile walk and Festive Friday activities with live music, children’s performances, and character appearances. Mrs. Claus will also be there for storytime. On November 30, don’t miss Snowfest Saturday.
Avalon, NJ 08202
Breakfast with Santa at Congress Hall – November 30-December 24
Breakfast with Santa returns to Congress Hall when this holiday family favorite starts after Thanksgiving in the Grand Ballroom. Kids and adults will love the delicious breakfast buffet, and don’t forget to dress up in your holiday best for photos with Saint Nick by the poinsettia tree.
Congress Hall, 200 Congress Pl., Cape May County, NJ 08204
Santa’s Tree Lighting Ceremony at Cape May County Zoo – November 30
Can you keep a secret? Rumor has it that the zebras at the Cape May County Zoo brought Rudolph and his crew in through the back gates. Come see for yourself, and while you’re there, take your photo with the jolly man in the big red suit. Catch a holiday performance by “Elves Gone Wild,” check out the ice sculpture demonstration, and enjoy some character appearances while you are there.
Cape May County Park & Zoo, 707 US 9 North, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210
Breakfast with Santa at the Inn of Cape May – November 30-December 21, select dates
Share a delicious breakfast with family and friends and welcome special guest Santa Claus as he visits the Inn of Cape May and stops at each table to greet guests on select dates leading up to Christmas.
7 Ocean Street, Cape May, NJ 08204
The arrival of Santa Claus is exciting for all ages. Photo Credit: istock/manonallard
SEAcret Santa, Sea of Lights Indoor Holiday Lights Spectacular, and Diving Santa – December 1-28, select dates
Start off the holiday season with SEAcret Santa on December 1, 2024. Then, enjoy the season with an actual diving Santa Claus. The Sea of Lights Indoor Holiday Lights Spectacular includes treats, crafts, pictures with Santa, games, and entertainment.
300 Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
Santa’s Arrival in Morristown – Begins December 1
Come down to The Morristown Green and take in the magic of the season. Visit and take Santa pictures in NJ to make this holiday season one to remember. Santa’s rooftop arrival starts on December 1.
The Morristown Green, 10 N. Park Place, Morristown, NJ 07960
Vinter Wonderland Stories with Santa – December 5-21
Celebrate a successful harvest at Renault Winery with a charming and festive experience for all ages. Santa Claus comes to town to read a holiday story while the kids can enjoy milk and cookies. The kids can also color and take photos with the big guy.
72 Bremen Ave., Egg Harbor City, NJ 08215
2024 Weihnachtsmarkt German Christmas Market of New Jersey – December 6-8
Who says you need to fly to Germany to experience an authentic Weihnachtsmärkt? Sussex County Fairgrounds is home to the largest annual Christmas market in the state and the only German Christmas Market in the US, complete with a carousel, pony rides, and a petting zoo. Your littles will enjoy a special visit from St. Nicholas, Mrs. Claus, and the elves.
Sussex County Fairgrounds, 37 Plains Road, Augusta, NJ 07822
Westwood Home For The Holidays – December 7
Get ready for the holiday season with the return of Westwood’s beloved Home For The Holidays celebration, which features a parade, live music, and tree lighting. This year’s theme is “Twinkle, Shine & Glow.”
Downtown Westwood
Winterfest Market in Haddonfield – December 7
The shopping season is here. Shop in the outdoor market, listen to holiday music and let the kids explore the different holiday activities. Children will also get a chance to give their list to Santa and take a photo.
51 Haddon Avenue, Haddon Twp., NJ 08108
Noyes Holiday Market and Gingerbread Village – December 14-15
Holiday shopping, food, handcrafted and vintage goods, and more. Throughout the event, there will be live music, arts and crafts activities for children and adults, pictures with Santa, and shopping from local artists and makers.
The Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University, 2200 Fairmount Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401
Holiday Wonderland and Christmas Market – December 14
Stop by this lively festival with vendors, entertainment, shopping, and plenty of opportunities to take a family photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Heritage Park, 49 West Bay Ave., Manahawkin, NJ 08050
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