Your Ultimate Bergen County Christmas & Holiday Bucket List

Opening Question: What are the must-do Christmas and holiday experiences in Bergen County this season?

Snippet Answer: From festive light displays and seasonal shows to cozy food stops, holiday shopping, winter activities, and ways to give back, Bergen County offers no shortage of ways to make the most of the holiday season.

🎄 1. Experience Bergen County Winter Wonderland

Location: Van Saun County Park, Paramus
Season: Late November through early January
Cost: Ticketed (rides, skating, and activities vary)
Why Go: Ice skating, holiday rides, food trucks, music, and winter attractions make this a full evening of festive fun for all ages.

✨ 2. Walk Through the Let It GLOW! Lantern Spectacular

Location: Bergen County Zoo, Paramus
Season: November through January
Cost: Ticketed
Why Go: Giant illuminated lantern displays, fire pits, and s’mores create a magical nighttime holiday experience.

🎄 3. Attend a Downtown Ridgewood Tree Lighting & Holiday Stroll

Location: Downtown Ridgewood
Season: Early December
Cost: Free
Why Go: Live music, fire pits, festive storefronts, and a classic community kickoff to the season.

🎅 4. Watch the Westwood “Home for the Holidays” Parade

Location: Westwood Avenue, Westwood
Season: Early December
Cost: Free
Why Go: A traditional holiday parade complete with marching bands, floats, and Santa’s arrival.

🛍️ 5. Visit the Fort Lee Holiday Night Market

Location: Fort Lee Commons
Season: Early December (one-night event)
Cost: Free entry (shopping and food extra)
Why Go: Local vendors, seasonal gifts, festive food, and a great atmosphere for holiday shopping.

🎭 6. See The Nutcracker at bergenPAC

Location: Bergen Performing Arts Center, Englewood
Season: Early to mid-December
Cost: Ticketed
Why Go: A timeless holiday tradition featuring beautiful choreography and classic music.

🎁 7. Shop Local Holiday Pop-Up & Craft Markets

Location: Various towns across Bergen County
Season: Throughout December
Cost: Free entry
Why Go: Find unique gifts while supporting local makers and small businesses.

🚗 8. Drive Through the Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms

Location: Hillsdale
Season: Late November through December
Cost: Ticketed per vehicle
Why Go: A festive drive-through experience filled with holiday lights, cocoa, s’mores, and Santa stops.

🎅 9. Attend Santa Saturdays & Downtown Santa Events

Location: Various Bergen County towns
Season: Mid-December
Cost: Free
Why Go: Meet Santa, enjoy treats, and experience small-town holiday charm.

🕯️ 10. Visit Tree & Menorah Lighting Ceremonies

Location: Town centers throughout Bergen County
Season: Early to mid-December
Cost: Free
Why Go: Community celebrations that honor seasonal traditions and bring neighbors together.

🕎 11. Attend a Local Hanukkah Celebration

Location: Town centers and community spaces
Season: Hanukkah dates vary
Cost: Free
Why Go: Meaningful ceremonies with menorah lightings, music, and family-friendly activities.

🌟 12. Tour Neighborhood Holiday Light Displays

Location: Residential neighborhoods across Bergen County
Season: December evenings
Cost: Free
Why Go: Create your own holiday lights tour and enjoy festive streets decorated by local homeowners.

🛒 13. Shop & Take Santa Photos at Paramus Malls

Location: Garden State Plaza, Bergen Town Center, Paramus Park
Season: Mid-November through December 24
Cost: Free entry (photo packages vary)
Why Go: A classic holiday shopping experience paired with Santa visits.

🎶 14. Attend Holiday Concerts & Choir Performances

Location: Churches, schools, and community venues
Season: Throughout December
Cost: Often free or low-cost
Why Go: Enjoy live seasonal music that captures the spirit of the holidays.

❤️ 15. Give Back Through Toy Drives & Charity Events

Location: Community centers, libraries, and nonprofits
Season: November through December
Cost: Donation-based
Why Go: Spread holiday cheer while supporting families and individuals in need.

Final Takeaway

The holidays in Bergen County are about more than decorations — they’re about experiences, traditions, and community. Whether you’re creating new memories or continuing longtime traditions, this bucket list helps you make the most of the season.

Thinking About Your Next Chapter?

Lifestyle matters — especially during the holidays. If you’re considering buying, selling, or planning a future move in Bergen County or beyond, I’m here to help you navigate it with clarity and confidence.

Schedule a call anytime, and let’s talk.

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

📞 Call/Text: 201-970-3960
📧 Email: [email protected]
📝 Blog: https://sellecksellsnj.com/blog