Multi Day Events
Winter Book Sale
Friday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Ocean City Library, 1735 Simpson Ave.
Genres include fiction, non-fiction hardback and paperback books for adults, children and young adults as well as puzzles, audio books, CDs and DVDs. Hosted by the Friends and Volunteers of the Ocean City Free Public Library.
Ocean City Train Show
Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk
The annual Holiday Train Expo will feature running displays, model trains of all gauges and vendors selling various scale model trains. Admission into the show is free.
4-H Holiday Craft Bazaar
Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Atlantic County 4-H Fairgrounds, 3210 Route 50, Mays Landing
Get into the holiday spirit and shop along with vendors indoors and outdoors. There will be plenty of food, gifts, a model train display and photos with Santa.
Ventnor Holiday Craft Showcase
Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Ventnor Library Atrium, 6500 Atlantic Ave.
Support local artists and shop small this season. Handmade pottery, mosaics, paintings and more will be for sale.
Hammonton Rotary Club Winterfest
Saturday, Dec. 7, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
and Sunday, Dec. 8, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Fairgrounds, 1 Mt. Carmel Lane, Hammonton
Enjoy a festive day with 30+ crafters, live music, horse-drawn carriage rides, Santa photos, “Elf Jr.” cast, games, s’mores, face painting, food and kids games. Free parking. Bring an unwrapped toy or non-perishable food item for those in need. Visit Hammonton Rotary on Facebook for more.
South Jersey Players Dessert Theater
Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8, 2 p.m.
Ventnor Coffee, 108 N. Dorset Ave., Ventnor
The fundraiser will feature short plays and monologues from local actors and playwrights. Tickets are $20 per person and include regular or decaf coffee or tea, homemade baked goods and the show. Seating is limited. Call 347-920-6399 for reservations.
Atlantic City Cinefest
Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8
Fannie Hammer Event Center at Stockton. 3711 Atlantic Ave., Atlantic City
Enjoy two full days of short films and feature-length narratives, documentaries and music videos. View the complete schedule online at www.facebook.com/accinefest . Tickets available via Eventbrite.
Holiday Light Show at Smithville
Daily, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
615 E. Moss Mill Road
Enjoy a special light show overlooking Lake Meone every 30 minutes. Stroll through the over 150 shops that make up Historic Smithville.
Christmas Fantasy with Lights at Storybook Land
Now-Dec. 23
6415 E. Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township
Every operating night at dusk, Santa will wave his magic wand and light up Storybook Land in over 1 million illuminated lights. The park is open Monday-Thursday from 4-8 p.m., Friday 4-9 p.m., Saturday 2-9 p.m. and Sunday 2-8 p.m. Tickets will not be sold at the gate. Purchase at www.storybookland.com
Vinter Wonderland at Renault Winery
Fridays-Sundays
72 N. Bremen Ave., Egg Harbor City
Step into the heart of the holidays as Renault Winery is transformed into a festive winter oasis filled with joyful activities. Enjoy gliding on the ice rink, explore the cozy marketplace, or gather around the firepits. Purchase skate tickets at www.renaultwinery.com
‘Anastasia: The Musical’-Youth Edition
Saturday, Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 15, 2 p.m.
Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk
“Anastasia: The Musical” is the spectacular new musical about discovering who you are and defining who you’re meant to be. This 60-minute adaptation of the Broadway hit is specially tailored for young actors and will feature students in third-eighth grades. Purchase tickets online at www.oceancitytheatrecompany.com
Great Bay Gallery Open House
Dec. 6, 7, 8 from12-5 p.m. at 829 Bay Avenue, Somers Point.
Distinctive Gifts at a Variety of Prices – Original Paintings, Prints, Photographs, Hand Made Designed Quilts, Boho Jewelry
Santa in the Downtown
Saturdays and Sundays, 9-11 a.m.
Soifer Park, Ninth St. and Asbury Ave.
For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com
Horse and Carriage Rides in Ocean City
Saturdays and Sundays, Noon-3 p.m.
Sixth St. and Asbury Ave.
For more information visit www.oceancityvacation.com.
Photos with Santa in Ocean City
Saturday and Sunday, Noon-3 p.m.
Ocean City Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk
For more information, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.
Thursday, December 5
Girls Night Out at Historic Smithville
6 p.m.
615 E. Moss Mill Road
Grab your girls and head to the Village for some shopping. Each store will be running its own promotion from discounts to food tastings. Enjoy the fun at over 50 shoppes, seven eateries, carousel ride and train ride.
Port Republic Tree Lighting
6 p.m.
Harry Bowen Memorial Park, 143 Main St.
Grab your mittens and scarves and join the City of Port Republic in celebrating the holiday season with an evening of lights, music by the Port Republic School and holiday cheer.
The History of Model Trains
6:30 p.m.
Ocean City Library, 1735 Simpson Ave.
Presented by Jack Brooks and Charlie Morgan. Learn more about model types, gauges and collection value. Bring your questions, your memories and your trains. Held at the Chris Maloney Lecture Hall.
Friday, December 6
Brigantine Tree Lighting and Holiday Bazaar
5 p.m.
Brigantine Fire Department and Community Presbyterian Church, 15th St. S. and W. Brigantine Ave.
Enjoy an evening of music, dancing, guest character appearances and the arrival of Santa. Plus, performances by the Brigantine Community School choir, Casey’s Dance Studio, appearances by local businesses and nonprofits and a full bazaar of vendors.
Ventnor Tree Lighting
5:30 p.m.
Ventnor City Hall, 6201 Atlantic Ave.
Ventnor City celebrates the season with the annual lighting of the Christmas tree at City Hall, along with a special visit from Santa himself. For more information, visit www.ventnorcity.org
Ocean City Christmas Parade
6 p.m.
Downtown Asbury Avenue Sixth-11th St.
Rain or shine. For more information or to register, visit www.ocnj.us/christmas-parade.
Somers Point Holiday Porch Performances
6 p.m.
Somers Ave. to Gregory’s
Enjoy a quirky and humorous rendition of Charles Dickens’ beloved holiday tale, “A Christmas Carol,” performed by The Riddlesbrood Players. Performances will begin at 37 Somers Ave., visiting other porches in the Bayfront Historic District and culminating at Gregory’s Restaurant, where holiday refreshments will be served. Admission is free. Presented by the Somers Point Unique Experiences Club.
Vinter Wonderland Tree Lighting Ceremony
6-9 p.m.
Renault Winery, 72 N. Bremen Ave., Egg Harbor City
Witness the illumination of their stunning Christmas tree, crafted from historic barrels, as the estate is lit up with warmth and festive cheer. Plus enjoy photos with Santa, ice skating and a holiday artisan market. Admission is free. Onsite purchases available.
Northfield Tree Lighting
6 p.m.
Northfield City Hall, 1600 Shore Road
Santa will be taking lists and pictures, along with free hot chocolate and cookies provided by the City of Northfield Volunteer Fire Company Ladies’ Auxiliary. This event is rain or shine and will be held indoors in the event of rain.
Santa in the Park in Absecon
6:30 p.m.
Heritage Park, 699 Blenheim Ave.
The Absecon Fire Department welcomes Santa and Mrs. Claus to Heritage Park. Take in a hayride, warm up by the bonfire and enjoy snacks and refreshments. Bring a new, unwrapped toy or non-perishable food item for those in need this holiday season.
Lights Out Presents: A Very Valli Holiday
7:30 p.m.
Gateway Playhouse, 738 Bay Ave., Somers Point
Lights Out takes you back to all your classic favorite songs, with Franki Valli hits and some of the most beloved Holiday Classics. Purchase tickets online at www.gatewaybythebay.org.
Jim Craine’s Swing into Christmas
8 p.m.
Resorts Atlantic City, 1133 Boardwalk
Don’t miss a night of merriment and songs of the season, all performed by Jim Craine and the Atlantic City All-Star Band, along with Suzie Neustadter, Miss Leslie’s Dance Studio of Margate Dancers, Happy Tappers Dance Troup and others. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission is free for anyone bringing a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots. After the event, say hello to Jim Craine and the performers in the hallway behind Superstar Theater. After party at The Irish Pub following the event.
Saturday, December 7
HSOC Photos with Santa
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
1 Shelter Road, Ocean City
Create a forever ‘Howl’iday memory that will last a lifetime. While you are there, check out the Roscoe Toy Workshop for special goodies. Be sure to dress for the weather. Dogs must be leashed at all times. Price is $10 donation per picture; proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Ocean City.
Somers Point Christmas Parade
6 p.m.
The parade will go down Shore Road from Dawes Ave to City Hall. It’s bigger and better than ever with String Bands and lots of Floats.
MudGirls Studios Annual Holiday Sale
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Josie Kelly’s Public House, 908 Shore Road, Somers Point
Celebrate the season and meet the MudGirls. Come early as pieces sell quickly. Features include the new Irini Peace Dove collection as well as other in-person-only exclusive items. Give a unique gift to those you love this holiday season. MudGirls Studios is a non-profit 501(c)(3) social enterprise that empowers disadvantaged women through training and employment. MudGirls Studios helps women transition onto a pathway towards self-sufficiency and out of poverty.
Atlantic City Winter Wonderland Parade
11 a.m.
Boardwalk south from Rhode Island Ave.
The City of Atlantic City celebrates the holiday season in a festive way. There will be floats, dazzling decorations and holiday cheer perfect for the entire family. More details are available at www.acnj.gov and www.facebook.com/AtlanticCityGov
Christmas Fair and Market at Somers Mansion
11 a.m.-4 p.m.
1000 Shore Road, Somers Point
A touch of the North Pole comes to Somers Point. The annual Christmas Fair and Market will include fine crafts, food vendors, meet and greet with Santa, Somers Mansion tours, along with live music and carolers. Support local businesses and the Somers Mansion this
season.
Galloway Township Tree Lighting and Ice Skating
2-6 p.m.
Galloway Municipal Complex, 300 E. Jimmie Leeds Road
The ice-skating rink will be open 2-5:30, there will be photos with Santa from 2 to 4, craft and business vendors on-site, food trucks, a mocktail and cocktail bar, cookies and cocoa by Galloway EMS at 5 p.m. Musical performances and fireworks will cap off the evening, alongside the tree lighting at 6 p.m. Rain date: Sunday, Dec. 8.
Hear Here Junior Jazz Battle Royal
2 p.m.
Ocean City Library, 1735 Simpson Ave.
This concert will feature the Jazz House Kids Ensemble, under the artistic direction of Christian McBride and the TD Teens for Jazz Ensemble. Hosted by the Ocean City Arts Center. The event is free and open to the public and will be held in the Chris Maloney Lecture Hall. RSVP by calling 609-399-7628.
Egg Harbor City Winter Bazaar and Tree Lighting
4-8 p.m.
100 Block of Philadelphia Ave.
Shop for unique holiday crafts from local vendors starting at 4 p.m. There will be plenty of activities for families including ice-skating, photo-ops and holiday-themed movies. Santa will arrive on fire truck with goodie bags for the kids, along with holiday music by local groups and a DJ. The tree lighting will take place at 7 p.m.
Philadelphia Bronze presents 30% Chance of Snow
4 p.m.
St. Peter’s United Methodist Church, 8th St. and Central Ave., Ocean City
Join St. Peter’s for a special concert as the Philadelphia Bronze presents a Christmas Handbell Concert. Admission is free. A free will offering will be received. For further information, call 609-399-2988.
Luminary Light Festival
5-7 p.m.
Absecon Lighthouse, 31 S. Rhode Island Ave., Atlantic City
Join Absecon Lighthouse as they celebrate the holidays with a tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. Decorate a personal Luminary Bag, enjoy holiday tunes by DJ Kelli, wine and cheese specialties and How to Thrive in 2025 Readings. Tickets are $25 per person. For more information call 609-449-1360.
Ventnor City Twilight Holiday Parade
5 p.m.
Ventnor Ave. from New Haven to Nashville Ave.
The parade will feature marching bands, fire trucks, floats, classic cars, Santa and Mrs. Claus and more. The celebration begins at 4 p.m. and following the parade with food trucks and a holiday market at Weymouth and Ventnor Ave. Visit Santa after the parade at Ventnor Square Theater and enjoy special activities, ballon artists, face painting and spin the wheel.
Somers Point Christmas Parade
6 p.m.
Shore Road from Dawes Ave. to City Hall
The Somers Point Historical Society will be hosting the annual Christmas and Holiday Parade in Somers Point. Enjoy an array of marching groups, floats, decorated trucks and a visit from Santa at City Hall following the parade.
Sunday, December 8
Jessie’s Holiday Market
9 a.m.-3 p.m.
136 W. Poplar Ave., Linwood
Over 50 local artisans, makers and small businesses will line Wabash Avenue next to the bike path. There will be plenty of activities throughout the day, along with live music, food trucks and café specials.
GEHTHS Holiday Open House
1-3 p.m.
6647 W. Jersey Ave., Egg Harbor Township
Join the Greater Egg Harbor Township Historical Society for a visit with Mrs. Claus. She will read to the children and give them little gifts. Enjoy holiday treats, music and tour the museum. Admission is free.
Ocean City Library Holiday Festival
1-3:30 p.m.
1735 Simpson Ave.
This free holiday celebration will feature crafts, balloon sculptors, live music, refreshments and a visit from Santa. Bring your letters to share your wish list. The Historical Museum will be open for tours, along with their complete train platform and winter exhibit. The Arts Center will have beautiful handmade pottery and mosaics on display.
Cape Shore Chorale Christmas Concert
3 p.m.
Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Bay Ave. and 30th St., Ocean City
The Cape Shore Chorale presents a concert of traditional Christmas music in familiar and new arrangements, under the direction of Scott J. Breiner. Admission is free and open to the public. A free will offering will be accepted and refreshments provided after the concert.
Paws and Claws Paint Party
3-6 p.m.
American Legion Post No. 28, 560 New Jersey Ave., Absecon
Registration open through Friday, Dec. 6. RSVP by emailing abseconarts@gmail.com. Hosted by the Absecon Cultural Arts Alliance.
Merry Christmas Magic Show
3-5 p.m.
Somers Point Vol. Fire Co. No. 1, 447 Bethel Road
Enjoy a fun filled afternoon of magic and comedy for all with Ken the Magician and Jazzy Jen. Santa will make a special appearance to spread holiday cheer. Tickets are $10 at the door. Children under 3 are free.
Tuesday, December 10
Village Film Society
10:30 a.m.
Join JFS Village Film Enthusiast Tom Celandine for a discussion about “White Christmas,” the classic holiday favorite celebrating its 70th anniversary. This program will be held via Zoom. RSVP by Dec. 5 by contacting Tina Serota at 609-287-8872 or email tserota@jfsatlantic.org.
Holiday Concert at the Library
6:30 p.m.
Longport Library, 2305 Atlantic Ave.
Gather at Longport Library for a wood instrument holiday concert, Flutes for Peace. Call 609-487-7403 to register or learn more.
Somers Point Dance Society
7:30-10 p.m.
Somers Point Fire Hall, 447 Bethel Road
Admission is $10 and includes snacks, live musical duos, line dancing, dance mixers, social dancing and plenty of parking. Come out and kick up your heels, or just listen to good music with good company.
Health and Wellness
Living in the Moment Group
Fridays, 10:30 a.m.
Mental Health Association of Atlantic County, 4 E. Jimmie Leeds Road Suite 8, Galloway
Slow down and spend an hour with like-minded people working on developing gratitude, self-love and other character traits that encourage mindfulness. Weekly meetings include meaningful discussions, camaraderie and a group activity. For more information, call (609) 652-3800 ext. 0306.
Dementia Support Group
Wednesday, Dec. 4, 1:30 p.m.
6009 Paul and Thelma Lane, Mays Landing
Held on the first and third Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Call Diane Conover at 609-402-6966 for more information.
NAMI Family Support and Connection
Monday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m.
Hosted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). The Family Support Group is peer led for families, care givers and loved ones of individuals with mental illness; Connection is a recovery support group for adults 18+ living with a mental health condition. This month’s meeting on Dec. 9 will be held via Zoom. Visit www.namiacm.org or call 609-741-5125 for more information.
MHA Atlantic Family Meetings
Thursday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m.
These virtual support groups and educational programs are for individuals with a loved one affected by mental health and/or substance use disorders. Contact Gail Christian at 609-652-3800, ext. 0301 or gchristian@mhanj.org to receive a meeting link.
Dementia Support Group
Wednesday, Dec. 18, 1:30 p.m.
6009 Paul and Thelma Lane, Mays Landing
Held on the first and third Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Call Diane Conover at 609-402-6966 for more information.
Do you have an upcoming event? Let us know about it! Submit your next event to shorelocalevents@gmail.com.
