Among the most fun Christmas markets available in the United States, New Jersey boasts numerous that offer their unique holiday experience. Whether your aim is for handcrafted goods, excellent seasonal cuisine, or family-friendly Christmas celebrations, these markets have something for everyone. With glittering lights, live entertainment, and lots of holiday cheer, New Jersey’s Christmas markets capture the festive mood from the busy streets of historic towns to tranquil rural villages. Many of these markets also offer distinctive customs influenced by German, Scandinavian, and other European holiday fairs, therefore allowing guests a taste of world holiday customs. Ten of New Jersey’s most well-known Christmas markets for 2025 are highlighted in this guide together with relevant information on what each market has to offer, local transportation, parking options, dining and housing ideas. Plan your holiday visits using this definitive knowledge on Christmas markets in NJ! Embrace the joyful West Coast appeal at the California Christmas Markets.
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Toggle1: German Christmas Market of New Jersey
Held in the Sussex County Fairgrounds, the German Christmas Market of New Jersey offers the Garden State the cosiness and custom of a European holiday market. Inspired by traditional German Weihnachtsmärkte, this market, tucked away in Augusta, NJ, boasts an array of holiday-themed booths, handcrafted goods, and delicious German cuisine including stollen and gluhwein (mulled wine).With live events, hand-made workshops, and festive décor, it offers a quite genuine experience.Its cheerful atmosphere appeals to guests and smells of roasted nuts, Christmas music, and glittering lights.Families and holiday enthusiasts will also find this market ideal with its unique attractions including Santa’s Village, a Christmas procession, and vintage German dance performances. Attendees can enjoy festive entertainment, taste great holiday food, and discover handcrafted items. For everyone wishing to celebrate the holiday, the German Christmas Market of NJ is absolutely must-seen from simple access from northern New Jersey and surrounding states.
Address: Sussex County Fairgrounds, 37 Plains Rd, Augusta, NJ 07822
Dates: December 1 – December 3, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Friday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: $10 for adults, children under 12 enter free
Where to Buy Tickets: Tickets are available on the German Christmas Market of NJ website.
Nearest T Stations: Dover Station (NJ Transit)
Events:
- Opening Ceremony: Featuring a live band and the lighting of the Christmas tree.
- Craft Workshops: Learn traditional German crafts at family-friendly workshops.
- Christmas Parade: Enjoy the sights and sounds of a festive holiday parade.
- Santa’s Village: Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and enjoy storytelling sessions for kids.
- German Dance Performances: Traditional German folk dances add a cultural flair.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Bavarian Woodworks: Beautiful hand-carved wooden decor items.
- Glühwein Stand: Serving warm spiced wine in collectible mugs.
- Sweet Treats: A stall with German cookies, pastries, and stollen.
- Special Spots:
- Christmas Tree Lighting Spot: Where the giant tree is illuminated each evening.
- Snow Globe Photo Booth: Perfect for family photos.
- Candy Cane Lane: A pathway decorated with oversized candy canes and lights.
- Holiday Wreath Display: A display of hand-made wreaths for sale.
- Wooden Carousel: A handcrafted carousel for kids to enjoy.
Parking Information: Parking is available on-site for $5 per vehicle.
Nearby Hotels:
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Newton: Comfortable rooms near the fairgrounds.
- Minerals Hotel: A luxury resort with a spa, ideal for a relaxing stay.
- Econo Lodge Newton: Budget-friendly and close by.
Nearby Restaurants:
- Cafe Pierrot: Known for its cozy ambiance and delicious pastries.
- Dominick’s Pizzeria & Restaurant: Family-friendly Italian dining.
- Mohawk House: Upscale dining with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
2: Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar
The Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar presents a beach variation on the venerable Christmas market experience. This well-known market, which takes place at the venerable Asbury Park Convention Hall, highlights the finest of New Jersey artists, regional cuisine, and festive entertainment just next to the sea. Popular for its unique combination of seasonal appeal and coastal surroundings, the Asbury Park festive Bazaar runs weekends from late November to Christmas Eve. Apart from activities and live music, guests may browse a variety of booths filled with seasonal treats, homemade goods, and vintage items. Highlights include images of Santa, artistic creations, and lovely fire pits where one may cozy up with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine. The market features outdoor campsfire areas and kid-oriented craft booths to provide a family-friendly environment. For those who want to have a festive but laid-back holiday experience by the coast due of its lovely surroundings and vibrant joyous attitude, the Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar is perfect.
Address: Asbury Park Convention Hall, 1300 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park, NJ 07712
Dates: November 25 – December 24, 2025 (Weekends)
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Where to Buy Tickets: Tickets are not required for general entry, but event tickets can be found on the Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar website.
Nearest T Stations: Asbury Park Station (NJ Transit)
Events:
- Live Holiday Music: Local bands perform holiday classics.
- Photos with Santa: Take a holiday photo with Santa Claus.
- Craft Workshops: Make your own holiday crafts and ornaments.
- Gift Wrapping Station: Free gift-wrapping for market purchases.
- Fire Pit Lounge: Relax by the fire with hot cocoa and mulled wine.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Local Artisan Collective: Showcasing unique handmade items.
- Vintage Vinyl Records: A selection of classic and modern records.
- Seaside Sweets: Holiday-inspired candies and chocolates.
Special Spots:
- Ocean View Terrace: With views of the ocean decorated for the holidays.
- Holiday Photo Booth: Festive setting for memorable photos.
- Warm Drinks Tent: Enjoy hot drinks under a cozy tent.
- Craft Corner: DIY craft area for all ages.
- Seaside Bonfire: Warm up by the fire on the beachside.
Parking Information: Nearby street parking and public parking lots (fees vary).
Nearby Hotels:
- The Asbury Hotel: A trendy hotel near the market.
- The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel: Classic style with ocean views.
- Hotel Tides: Boutique hotel with a welcoming ambiance.
Nearby Restaurants:
- Porta: Popular for Italian cuisine and wood-fired pizzas.
- Langosta Lounge: Seaside eatery with a global menu.
- The Bonney Read: Seafood restaurant with fresh, local dishes.
3: Hoboken Holiday Craft Fair
Nestled in the center of Hoboken at City Hall, the friendly and inviting Hoboken Holiday Craft Fair is a celebration of Renowned for its emphasis on distinctive handcrafted items and local artists, this two-day festival offers guests the ideal chance to browse for Christmas presents while helping regional artists. With so many vendors offering anything from holiday-themed décor to organic cosmetics and handcrafted jewelry, this craft fair has something for everyone. Holiday music permeates the air as customers peruse the booths; special events include photo with Santa, cookie decorating for children, and ornament-making classes add to the festive mood. In addition to shopping, the fair offers a wonderful sense of community, bringing locals and visitors together to celebrate the holiday season. With its prime location near Hoboken’s bustling Washington Street and a short walk from public transportation, the Hoboken Holiday Craft Fair is both convenient and filled with holiday spirit.
Address: Hoboken City Hall, 94 Washington St, Hoboken, NJ 07030
Dates: December 9 – December 10, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets are required; more information on Hoboken Holiday Craft Fair website.
Nearest T Stations: Hoboken Terminal (NJ Transit, PATH)
Events:
- Live Jazz Performances: Enjoy holiday jazz music from local artists.
- Handmade Ornament Workshop: Create personalized ornaments for your tree.
- Photos with Santa: Capture holiday memories with Santa Claus.
- Cookie Decorating Booth: A sweet activity for kids and adults.
- Holiday Raffle: Win prizes from local businesses and artisans.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Artisanal Jewelry: Handmade, one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces.
- Organic Skincare: Locally made organic skincare products.
- Holiday Candles: Scented candles in festive fragrances.
Special Spots:
- City Hall Steps Decor: Perfectly adorned with holiday decorations.
- Children’s Craft Corner: A spot for kids to get creative.
- Hot Chocolate Station: Enjoy seasonal hot chocolate with marshmallows.
- Holiday Market Entrance Arch: Decorated entrance that’s ideal for photos.
- Santa’s Sleigh Display: Snap a picture with the iconic holiday sleigh.
Parking Information: Metered street parking available, as well as nearby public lots.
Nearby Hotels:
- W Hoboken: Luxury hotel with river views.
- The Holland Hotel: Comfortable, affordable lodging near Hoboken.
- Hyatt House Jersey City: Nearby, with excellent views of the skyline.
Nearby Restaurants:
- Amanda’s Restaurant: Known for cozy atmosphere and fine dining.
- La Isla: Authentic Cuban cuisine for a warm dining experience.
- Carlo’s Bakery: Famous bakery with delicious holiday treats.
4: Historic Smithville Holiday Village
Nestled in the charming and old town of Smithville, the Historic Smithville festive Village whisks guests to a bucolic festive setting like out of a novel. Open weekends, this little market offers distinctive stores, glittering lights, and seasonal decorations all throughout the village. Children’s carousel, horse-drawn carriage rides, and an amazing holiday light show reflecting off the lake are among highlights. Visitors may explore specialty businesses, peruse booths with homemade jewelry, candles, and holiday décor, and enjoy seasonal cuisine. Holiday caroling, fireplace storytelling, and an amazing gingerbread home contest accentuate the wonderful atmosphere of the market. For families, Santa’s house is a must-visit, while couples can enjoy a romantic carriage ride around the village. With free parking and a range of accommodations nearby, the Historic Smithville Holiday Village is a convenient and memorable destination for a festive day out or a weekend getaway in New Jersey’s countryside.
Address: 615 E Moss Mill Rd, Smithville, NJ 08205
Dates: November 25 – December 23, 2025 (Weekends)
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required, but visit the Smithville website for special event details.
Nearest T Stations: Egg Harbor City Station (NJ Transit)
Events:
- Magical Holiday Light Show: Evening light show on the village lake.
- Carriage Rides: Romantic rides around the village with holiday decor.
- Storytelling by the Fireplace: Cozy up to holiday stories by the fire.
- Carol Singing: Local groups perform Christmas carols.
- Gingerbread House Contest: See creative entries in this fun contest.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- The Candle Shoppe: Hand-poured candles in festive scents.
- Cape Shore Store: Souvenirs and holiday gifts from the Jersey Shore.
- Sweet Things Chocolates: Gourmet chocolates and seasonal sweets.
Special Spots:
- Smithville Train Display: A beloved miniature train setup for kids.
- Floating Christmas Trees: Watch the lit trees as they float on the lake.
- Historic Carousel: A restored carousel, perfect for family fun.
- Santa’s House: Visit Santa in his holiday-decorated house.
- Tavern of the Towne: A cozy tavern to enjoy mulled wine.
Parking Information: Free parking available at the village.
Nearby Hotels:
- The Colonial Inn at Historic Smithville: Stay right in the heart of the village.
- Marriott’s Fairway Villas: Upscale resort nearby.
- Days Inn by Wyndham Absecon Atlantic City Area: Budget-friendly option close by.
Nearby Restaurants:
- Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light Tavern: Local tavern with hearty meals.
- Vincenzo’s Ristorante: Italian restaurant known for its authentic dishes.
- Smithville Bakery & Coffee Shop: Great for breakfast or a holiday treat.
5: Red Bank Holiday Market
Held at Marine Park, the Red Bank Holiday Market is a cheerful riverfront celebration that infuses this little town with the joyful attitude. Open all through December, this market provides guests with a variety of seasonal events and retail choices all against the lovely background of the Navesink River. Renowned for its community-centered approach, the Red Bank Christmas Market is the perfect place to discover unusual presents, savor seasonal cuisine, and enjoy the Christmas cheer surrounded by friends and family. The market boasts a huge Christmas tree lighting, outdoor ice skating, and comfortable carriage rides around Red Bank’s adorned streets.Consumers will find anything from artisan goods and locally manufactured décor to specialized meals and hand-made jewelry. This market is a nice site with particular features including a Christmas picture booth, little refreshment pavilion, and evening illumination next the river. Perfect for a holiday shopping spree or a day excursion, the Red Bank Holiday Market features plenty of parking and a selection of nearby restaurants and lodging facilities.
Address: Marine Park, Red Bank, NJ 07701
Dates: December 1 – December 24, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Thursday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required, details on Red Bank Holiday Market website.
Nearest T Stations: Red Bank Station (NJ Transit)
Events:
- Tree Lighting Ceremony: Lighting of the town’s large Christmas tree.
- Ice Skating Rink: Seasonal outdoor ice rink for visitors.
- Holiday Carriage Rides: Take a ride around town in a festive carriage.
- Family Movie Nights: Outdoor screenings of holiday classics.
- Kids’ Craft Tent: Arts and crafts activities for children.
Famous Shops or Stalls:
- Holiday Jewelry Stand: Featuring handcrafted jewelry perfect for gifts.
- Artisan Bakery: A variety of fresh-baked pastries and holiday sweets.
- Holiday Decor Shop: Beautifully crafted holiday ornaments and decor.
Special Spots:
- Riverfront Holiday Lights: Lights along the waterfront create a festive glow.
- Photo Booth with Santa: Capture memories with Santa himself.
- Warm Drinks Pavilion: Cozy up with hot chocolate or cider.
- Toy Train Display: Nostalgic toy train setup for families to enjoy.
- Snow Globe Selfie Station: Giant snow globe for unique holiday photos.
Parking Information: Public parking available, fees vary by location.
Nearby Hotels:
- Molly Pitcher Inn: Historic inn with beautiful views of the Navesink River.
- The Oyster Point Hotel: Upscale hotel right by the river.
- Courtyard by Marriott Lincroft Red Bank: Comfortable and conveniently located.
Nearby Restaurants:
- The Robinson Ale House: Casual dining with a warm atmosphere.
- Semolina Restaurant: Known for fresh Italian dishes.
- Danish Café: Offers a selection of pastries and coffee.
For more holiday cheer on the West Coast, explore the California Christmas Markets and celebrate the festive spirit.