It’s the first weekend of December and that brings plenty of seasonal festivities to South Jersey, from holiday concerts to family fun. Plus, actor Macaulay Culkin shares stories from “Home Alone” at Ocean Casino and Candy Cane Lounge opens at Resorts. Read all about it in the Top Weekly Entertainment Picks.
What: Vinter Wonderland
Where: Renault Winery
When: Fridays-Sundays
Time: 4-10 p.m. Fridays, 12-10 p.m. Saturdays, 12-6 p.m. Sundays.
Website: https://renaultwinery.com/vintner-wonderland-2025/
Immerse yourself in holiday magic at Renault’s Vinter Wonderland. This winter festival provides the perfect opportunity to gather loved ones, savor the season and create long-lasting memories. Activities include ice skating, local artisans, live entertainment, culinary creations, a photo booth, festival of trees and more.
What: Luminary Light Festival
Where: Absecon Lighthouse
When: Friday, Dec. 5
Time: 5-7 p.m.
Website: www.abseconlighthouse.org/events/event
The Absecon Lighthouse invites the public to this festive evening filled with caroling and DJ tunes, a full moon lighthouse climb, tree lighting and a lovely wine and cheese tasting for all guests to enjoy. Tickets are $25 with proceeds supporting the Absecon Lighthouse. For more information, call 609-449-1360.
What: Noyes Holiday Market & Gingerbread Village
Where: Noyes Arts Garage
When: Saturday, Dec. 6 and Sunday, Dec. 7
Time: 12-4 p.m.
Website: www.artsgarageac.com
Enjoy two full days of artisan vendors, live music, amazing food, Santa and crafts under one roof. Plus, check out the gingerbread village and contest to vote on your favorite gingerbread house. Admission is free.
Who: Earth, Wind & Fire
Where: Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena
When: Friday, Dec. 5 and Saturday, Dec. 6
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: https://casino.hardrock.com/atlantic-city/event-calendar/earth-wind-fire
Music legends Earth, Wind & Fire have toured across the country and around the world since 1969 and have sold more than 100 million albums, including eight No. 1 hits. With nine Grammy awards, these Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame icons have garnered a successful catalog of timeless hits, such as “Let’s Groove,” “September” and “Shining Star,” among many others.
Who: Kelli Glover
Where: The Inn on St. Louis
When: Saturday, Dec. 6
Time: 3-6 p.m.
Website: www.theinnonstlouis.com/events
Kick off Christmas this Saturday with “America’s Got Talent” Season 9 semi-finalist Kelli Glover live in Egg Harbor City. Enjoy a selection of fine holiday tunes along with fantastic food and seasonal drinks.
What: Hospitality Night
Where: Historic Smithville
When: Saturday, Dec. 6
Time: 6 p.m.
Website: https://www.historicsmithville.com/uncategorized/hospitality-night/
The shoppes of Historic Smithville thank their loyal customers with a festive night filled with discounts, treats and holiday cheer. The special evening will include raffles, discounts and seasonal refreshments, along with s’mores by the Village Greene, the Holiday Light Show on the Lake and a performance by the St. Vinny Choir at the Village Greene Gazebo at 6 p.m.
Who: A Nostalgic Night with Macaulay Culkin: ‘Home Alone’ 35th Anniversary
Where: Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
When: Sunday, Dec. 7
Time: 4 p.m.
Website: www.theoceanac.com/entertainment/headliners/macaulay-culkin-home-alone
Enjoy a special screening of the beloved holiday classic “Home Alone” followed by an exclusive, moderated interview and audience Q&A with Macaulay Culkin, the star who brought Kevin McCallister to life. Fans will hear behind-the-scenes stories, favorite memories from filming and Culkin’s insights into why the movie remains a timeless favorite.
What: Stockton Holiday Choral Concert
Where: Stockton Performing Arts Center
When: Sunday, Dec. 7
Time: 7 p.m.
Website: https://stockton.universitytickets.com/w/event.aspx?id=1732
Join the Stockton choral program for an exciting evening of holiday music featuring the Stockton Chorale, University Chorus and the Oratorio Society Community Choir with special guests. The program will include a delightful blend of holiday favorites, moving melodies and wonderful choral singing.
What: Candy Cane Lounge Pop-Up Bar
Where: Resorts Atlantic City
When: Now-Jan. 4
Website: www.resortsac.com/entertainment/winter-holiday-pop-up-bar/
Bar One inside Resorts has been transformed into the Candy Cane Lounge this holiday season. Enjoy a selection of seasonally curated cocktails and take some holiday selfies. The bar will feature plenty of festive décor along with live entertainment, with performances by holiday characters every weekend in December.
Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.
