By Krystle J Bailey
I have a direct relationship with the big man himself.
Santa, that is.
When I was a kid, I can remember hearing his jolly chuckle from my bedroom before the magical bearded fellow plowed through my door and swept me into his lap to share my Christmas list.
Somehow, I was lucky enough that my grandmother was Santa’s special helper, which meant our little crooked house on Fifth Street in Somers Point got a super special visit each year before Christmas Day. One Christmas, I remember looking down at his familiar watch and thinking, “Wow! Santa and my grandfather wear the same watch. That’s weird. As a matter of fact, they even smell alike! Must be a strange coincidence.”
I was raised as an elf. Christmas magic is in my DNA.
While some kids were forced to learn math facts at an early age, I could tell you with great confidence by age ten about The 12 Days of Christmas. By age 14, I was actually dressed as an elf alongside my personal Santa and his super special helper, my grandmother Joy. That year, I spent my December weekends at a local garden center giving out candy canes and taking Polaroid pictures of little ones on Santa’s lap.
When I grew up and had kids of my own, the traditions continued in my family for many years. Santa and “Me-Mom” would “ho, ho, ho” their way into our home as the next generation of elves began to understand the inexplicable magic that December brings. Time, life, and circumstances have changed drastically in my family in the last decade, but I am thankful for years of special memories as a family elf.
This year, I am so excited to see South Jersey buzzing with holiday excitement to keep the spirit alive! There is so much to do, from pop-up holiday-themed bars and restaurants to the countless tree lightenings, holiday markets, and festivities.
For some great opportunities for holiday magic, check out this elf’s top five local suggestions:
Forever Forest
The story of Forever Forest began when Emilio Polito and his three brothers were young boys. Their grandparents told them the story every year of Master Elf Mancini Manchester, who just so happened to be a friend of the family. Every Christmas Eve, they’d get a knock on the door from Mancini, reminding them of their especially close connection to good ol’ St. Nick. Located on Bremen Avenue in Egg Harbor City, Forever Forest is an enchanted Christmas experience that keeps the magic of Christmas alive in the hearts of self-proclaimed elves, young and old.
With such a familiar family story, I have enjoyed taking my kids to Forever Forest over the years and watching the Polito family expand upon the annual pop-up event.
The property is filled with indoor and outdoor activities, including photos with Santa, old-fashioned hayrides, Santa’s Arts and Crafts workshop, Christmas tree walking trails, face painting, letters to Santa, and more! Information for Forever Forest can be found at foreverforestnj.com.
Storybook Land
Growing up in South Jersey, the next best thing to a personal Santa visit was seeing Santa light up Storybook Land for the holidays. I’ve spent many childhood evenings in awe of the holiday wonder that I now know Storybook Land has brought to Egg Harbor Township since 1955. Having competed in “The Great Christmas Light Fight” on ABC, Storybook Land is an iconic South Jersey landmark – especially when the holiday lights start flashing.
The family-owned and operated children’s theme park can be enjoyed for the holidays on select dates. Tickets for the holiday season sell out quickly, so be sure to visit storybookland.com to book an experience to remember.
Tinseltown
Atlantic City is packed with holiday happenings this year, more than ever before! The Tinseltown Holiday Experience kicks off Friday, Dec. 1, with tree lightings, a children’s choir, holiday toy drives, hot cocoa, and so much more.
From O’Donnell Park to Steel Pier and everywhere in between, there is a bit of holiday magic for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss out on Saturday, Dec. 9, when Santa arrives at the Steel Pier. While you’re there, enjoy a ride on The Wheel as it lights up the night sky. Parents’ night out? Check out the full list of pop-up bars and adult events at atlanticcitynj.com.
Renault Winery
Renault Winery in Egg Harbor City is offering an array of holiday events this year, all included in their Vinter Wonderland series. Santa arrives on Dec. 2 for a series of memory-making opportunities your kids are sure to remember. Join Santa as he reads a classic Christmas story while enjoying milk and cookies. Photo opportunities and Santa chats will be available. Multiple dates are available.
Join the Renault team every Friday night for their Vinter Wonderland Family Fun Night, where families are invited to enjoy popcorn, ice skating, hot chocolate, holiday movies, games, and more. Visit renaultwinery.com for the full calendar of events.
The Santa Express
Hop aboard the Santa Express for a thrilling 75-minute holiday ride with Santa and his helpers. This unforgettable experience, offered by Seashore Lines, offers a whimsical journey between Richland and Tuckahoe villages on a historic railroad track. The Santa Express operates every weekend through Christmas.
For a train ride reminiscent of “The Polar Express”, families are invited to wear their pajamas and enjoy The Santa Starlight Express every weekday evening from Dec. 9 through Dec. 23. Grab tickets and learn more at the-Santa-express.com.
There is so much to do in South Jersey this holiday season, and I couldn’t be more excited to see our community fully thriving again!
Check out the Wahoo section of Shore Local for a full list of parades and other holiday can’t-miss events. Enjoy, be safe, and don’t forget to spread a little extra kindness wherever you go.
Krystle J Bailey is a published author, multimedia journalist, copywriter, and content creator. She is a regular Shore Local columnist and digital contributor as well as the booking agent and co-host of the radio show Joe’s Table for Two on WOND. Krystle can be reached at KrystleJBailey@gmail.com
