See the Grinch on stage at the State Theater of New Jersey in New Brunswick. Photo by Jeremy Daniel

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Holiday and Thanksgiving volunteer opportunities abound in New Jersey.

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Step into a world of wonder at LuminoCity's 2024 holiday lights festival in Freehold. Photo courtesy of the festival

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Bobby Chez offers to-go options for Thanksgiving dinner in Cherry Hill.

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Spend a day running around at Johnson's Corner Farm this November. Photo courtesy of the farm

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Demarest Farms is adorned with holiday lights this season as its popular Orchard of Lights returns for another holiday run. Photo courtesy of the farm

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Johnson's Locust Hill Farm is a picture perfect backdrop for a stroll through sunflowers. Photo by Cody Conk

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The Funplex has two New Jersey locations for families to explore and enjoy.

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Visit the petting zoo at Alstede Farms for a chance to meet the animals. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala

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Get drawn into the art at the Morris Museum next time you're looking for indoor activities for kids in New Jersey. Photo by Kaylynn Chiarello Ebner

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Beyond the casinos, Atlantic City is an all-ages playground, with Island Waterpark, boardwalk amusements, beach access, and more fun.

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Hang out with the giant hippos at Camden's Adventure Aquarium. Photo by Kaylynn Chiarello Ebner

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The Rainforest Cafe has two family-friendly restaurants in New Jersey. A meal out here is part adventure, part restaurant.

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Palmer Square is a great place to relax in the heart of Princeton. Photo courtesy of Palmer Square

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The accessible playground at Watsessing Park works for children of all abilities. Photo by Margaret Hargrove

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Pet baby goats on a visit to Brookhollow's Barnyard in Boonton. Photo by Kaylynn Ebner

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Bounce, climb, and jump at BounceU in Paramus, one of our top indoor play spaces in northern New Jersey.

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At a Bach to Rock birthday party, kids can sing karaoke or record their own CD.

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Help your kids develop their creative side with art classes

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At Genius Gems in Millburn, kids under 2 get in free with an older sibling.

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Admission to the Cape May County Park & Zoo is completely free. Photo courtesy of the zoo

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Nickelodeon Universe is one of the can't-miss destinations at American Dream Mall in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo courtesy of the venue

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New Jersey kids can find free fun climbing the pirate ship at the free Garden State Plaza Westfield mall. Photo by Mommy Poppins

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Hike the Appalachian Trail—72 miles are n New Jersey! Photo courtesy of Visit NJ

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Cheesequake State Park in Middlesex County offers hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and much more. Photo by Ali Chandra

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The Camden Children's Garden offers free admission for children under 2.

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Cruise in the Playmobil Fire Truck during your trip to Toys

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Hop aboard a stagecoach for a ride back in time at Wild West City, one of New Jersey's top attractions.

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Creating a baking soda volcano is a classic science experiment for kids. Photo by Sara Marentette Nighswander

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Polar Express Train Rides and Christmas Trains in New Jersey

Join a magical trip on the Polar Express powered by the Morristown & Erie Railway. Photo courtesy of the railway

10/25/24 - By Laurie Rein

Every year Polar Express train rides come to New Jersey, with the Garden State's railroads decked out in their holiday best. We know it's a bit early to start hauling out the holly, but these Polar Express trains and Christmas trains are a popular holiday tradition, and they sell out fast!

Though these Christmas trains don't go all the way to the North Pole, most include a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with treats, caroling, movies, and stories. We've even included a trolley ride hosted by Mrs. Claus herself. Read on to find out where to take a Christmas train ride near New Jersey with Santa, and book your tickets as soon as possible.

If you're already thinking about other must-do activities this holiday season, be sure to check out our rundown of the most spectacular holiday light displays in New Jersey and other tips in our Guide to Christmas and Holiday Events in NJ for Families.

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