Santa Visits & Holiday Kids Activities in Bergen County (2025 Guide)

Looking for the best places to take the kids this holiday season? Bergen County is packed with magical experiences — from Santa photo ops and cozy story times to winter wonderlands and dazzling light shows. If you want to make the most of the holidays with your family, here are the top Santa visits and kid-friendly festive activities happening across Northern New Jersey this year.

❄️ 1. Winter Wonderland at Van Saun County Park — Paramus

Bergen County’s biggest holiday tradition is back — complete with ice skating, Santa and Mrs. Claus visits, bumper cars on ice, carnival rides, live music, and glowing seasonal displays.
Why kids love it: Rides, lights, skating, holiday treats, and a full North Pole-themed setup.
When: Select dates through mid-January
Tip: Weekends are especially festive — book tickets early.

🎅 2. Santa Photos at Bergen County Malls

If you want the classic Santa photo experience, malls across the county have beautifully themed photo sets and plenty of holiday extras.

Top spots:

• Westfield Garden State Plaza (Paramus)

• Paramus Park Mall (Paramus)

• Bergen Town Center (Paramus)

• The Shops at Riverside (Hackensack)

Why kids love it: Meeting Santa, holiday décor, and easy dining/shopping afterward.
When: Mid-November through December 24
Price: Photo packages vary.

🎄 3. Abma’s Farm Santa Photo Op — Wyckoff

A charming outdoor holiday setting with a rustic winter farm backdrop, cozy fire pits, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

What to expect:

• Santa photos in a festive farm setting

• Letters to Santa

• Optional s’mores by the fire
  Dates: November 28–29 & December 6
  Tip: Bring your own camera or use staff photographers.

📖 4. Santa Story Time at Abma’s Farm — Wyckoff

One of the most magical kid-friendly holiday events in Bergen County.

Experience includes:

• Stories read by Santa & Mrs. Claus

• Singing, activities, and photo time

• A cozy tented environment
  Dates: December 9, 10, 13 & 20
  Perfect for: Ages 2–10
  Note: Sells out quickly.

🎅 5. Santa Saturday — Downtown Fort Lee

A beloved local event where Santa arrives for free photos, treats, and holiday cheer.

Why families love it:

• Free admission

• Holiday music & small bites

• Easy downtown parking
  When: December 13
  Cost: Free (optional purchases available)

✨ 6. Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms — Hillsdale

A magical drive-through holiday light experience paired with Santa visits on select nights.

Highlights:

• Sparkling holiday displays

• Santa meet-and-greet

• Hot chocolate, donuts & s’mores
  When: Through December 30
  Tickets: Required per vehicle
  Tip: Ideal for younger kids or cold nights.

🌟 7. Ridgewood Winterfest & Santa — Ridgewood

A festive outdoor celebration featuring Santa, ice sculpting, kids activities, and charming local vendors.

What families enjoy:

• Classic small-town holiday feel

• Santa photos

• Music & food
  When: Early December
  Cost: Free to attend (some activities vary)

🐧 Bonus: Let It GLOW! Lantern Spectacular — Bergen County Zoo

A breathtaking nighttime display featuring oversized glowing lanterns and holiday scenes.

Why it’s a must:

• Amazing photo ops

• Perfect evening activity

• Runs through early January
  Tickets: Required
  Tip: Go right at sunset for the best experience.

🎁 Tips for the Perfect Holiday Outing

• Book early — Santa sessions sell out fast

• Dress warm, especially for outdoor events

• Pair activities with a meal or nearby shopping

• Bring snacks and layers for happy kids

Final Takeaway

Bergen County offers a full month of holiday magic — from light shows to Santa visits to cozy seasonal traditions. Whether you’re planning a full festive weekend or just want a quick Santa photo, there’s something here for every family.

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Scott Selleck | The Selleck Group
32+ Years Experience | Northern NJ Specialist
Keller Williams City Views Realty, Fort Lee

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