
As Christmas Day draws to a close, many New Jerseyans are faced with the age-old Holiday dilemma: What do we do with the kids until school re-opens in the New Year? Don’t get your stockings in a twist. We’ve got 11 great options here. (Got some more to add? Email us at editor@newjerseynext.com.)
1. Adventure Aquarium in Camden Celebrates Christmas Underwater Thru Dec 30


This winter, the Santa tracker leads right to Six Flags Great Adventure as this all-new holiday extravaganza — Holiday in the Park — debuts at the world’s largest theme park on November 18 and runs weekends and select days through January 1. Millions of glittering lights, dazzling holiday entertainment, delicious seasonal treats,

Annie at the Paper Mill Playhouse. Photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade.
Annie, the world’s best-loved family musical returns to Paper Mill Playhouse through December 31. Little Orphan Annie is taken from her orphanage, and the clutches of cruel Miss Hannigan, to stay at billionaire Oliver Warbucks’ mansion for the holidays. When Annie wins the hearts of Warbucks and his staff, they set out on an epic mission to find Annie’s parents. Winner of the Best Musical Tony Award, Annie includes such unforgettable songs as “It’s the Hard-Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “A New Deal for Christmas,” plus the eternal anthem of optimism, “Tomorrow.”
One of the amazing things about New Jersey is the wide range of outdoor activities available within a reasonably short drive. Mountain Creek ski resort in Vernon, NJ had a 25″ snow base as of December 25, with 6 of 10 lifts and 27 out of 46 trails open. Other options in NY and PA make for good short trips.
Find out more here.
2017 dates for Sea of Lights are December 15, 16, 22, 23 and 26-30 from 6-9pm. Aquarium Admission is discounted to $8/person during Sea of Lights.
The character appearances during Sea of Lights are as follows:
- December 26 – Pink & Blue Troll
- December 27 – Ice Queen, Princess & Snowman
- December 28 – Hawaiian Princess & Hawaiian Guy
- December 29 – Patrol Pups
- December 30 – Glass Slipper Princess & Yellow Dress Princess
Jenkinson’s is collecting for the children’s hospital again, asking for NEW pajamas, blankets and craft kits. Donations can be dropped off at the Aquarium Gift Shop.
Join a magical trip on the Polar Express, powered by the Morristown & Erie Railway. Each ticket includes fantastic entertainment, delicious hot chocolate, a scrumptious cookie, and a keepsake sleigh bell to bring home. Families are encourage to wear their pajamas for the ride.
11. Holiday Light Spectacular at Turtle Back Zoo

Holiday Lights at the Turtle Back Zoo runs through Jan. 1. Admission is free.
Take a winter stroll through the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo this holiday season under the sparkling lights of over 50 winter and animal characters. Celebrate the season of giving by bringing donations of nonperishable food items, new toys, and gently used coats. Different themed activities featured each December weekend makes visiting extra exciting!
Plus one bonus out-of-state option:
Wow! Really an exciting post! New Jersy is our favourite travel destination. This list would be handy when we plan for our next trip to New Jersey. My kids are quite excited to visit Jenkinson’s Sea of Lights. They would feel great to donate some of their DIY crafts at the aquarium gift shop.