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December 26.2025
3 Minutes Read

Top Family-Friendly Activities in New Jersey This Weekend: December 26-28, 2025

Colorful marine-themed light display in New Jersey park.

Embrace the Holiday Spirit in New Jersey

As the final weekend of 2025 approaches, New Jersey promises an array of activities that welcome families to experience seasonal joy. With snow anticipated from Friday evening, there's no better opportunity to indulge in vibrant holiday festivities. From dazzling light displays to engaging community events, here are some of the best things to do in New Jersey this weekend, allowing families to create cherished memories as they step into the New Year.

Winter WonderLights: A Magical Drive-Through

For a truly enchanting experience, families can visit the Winter WonderLights at Middlesex County Fairgrounds in East Brunswick. Starting Wednesday and continuing through Sunday, this drive-through event showcases 1.5 million animated lights synchronized to music. With sparkling tunnels and towering Christmas trees, it beautifully depicts the magic of the season while paying tribute to first responders and military heroes. This dazzling display is an excellent choice for families wanting to soak in the holiday spirit while staying cozy in their cars.

Experience History at Patriots Week

History enthusiasts will appreciate the reverent celebrations during Patriots Week in Trenton, taking place on Friday and Saturday. This week-long event honors Trenton’s pivotal role in the Revolutionary War, featuring a Colonial Ball on Friday and reenactments of the Battles of Trenton on Saturday. Families can engage in a unique interactive puppet show titled The Trouble with Trenton, offering educational delight for children while immersing them in local heritage.

Festive Fun at Brookhollow’s Barnyard

Located in Boonton, Barnyard Under the Stars welcomes families to enjoy a holiday-themed experience filled with activities. Kids can embark on a five-minute Thomas the Train ride, meet friendly barn animals, and snap pictures with Santa. This event, which runs Friday and Saturday, combines fun and festivity—ideal for families with young children eager to create memorable holiday experiences.

A Night of Lights at Creamy Acres Farm

Another highlight this weekend is the Night of Lights Light Show Extravaganza at Creamy Acres Farm in Mullica Hill. This 100-acre dairy farm transforms into a Christmas wonderland filled with musical light displays. Families can enjoy a scenic 1.5-mile drive followed by a stroll through an indoor exhibit featuring a life-sized snow globe and singing Christmas tree. The experience concludes with a photo opportunity with Santa, creating a picture-perfect way to finish off an evening.

Classic Ballet: The Nutcracker Returns

The classic holiday performance of The Nutcracker, presented by the New Jersey Ballet, takes center stage at the Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown. This iconic ballet showcases talented ballerinas bringing Tchaikovsky's enchanting score to life. With performances on Friday and Saturday, it’s a delightful option for families looking to introduce their children to the world of performing arts, all while enjoying a timeless tale of wonder and magic.

Family Festivities at Local Markets

Families can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere at the Holiday Square Market in Jersey City. Open Friday through Sunday, this New York City-style holiday market features curated food stalls and local vendors. Parents can shop for unique holiday gifts while children enjoy the festive decorations and entertainment. It's a great way to support community businesses while enjoying seasonal treats.

Close the Year With Community and Family

This weekend, New Jersey offers an impressive lineup of family-friendly activities to celebrate the end of 2025. From light shows that mesmerize to historical reenactments that educate, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Pooling together experiences that range from enjoying a cozy night at Creamy Acres Farm to exploring rich local history in Trenton can help families forge stronger bonds filled with joy and laughter. As the holiday season wraps up, take a moment to cherish these communal experiences and relish in the magic of family time together.

Call to Action: Don’t miss out on these vibrant holiday events! Explore New Jersey’s local festivities and make unforgettable memories with your family as you gather one last time before the New Year. Whether it’s the magical lights at the fairgrounds or the historical charm of Trenton, get out and enjoy your community this weekend!

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10.16.2026

Discover New Jersey's Best Colleges for 2027: WalletHub Insights for Parents

Update New Jersey's College Landscape: A Parent's Guide to 2027 Rankings As college application deadlines loom, it's crucial for parents in New Jersey to explore the latest college rankings to find the perfect fit for their children. WalletHub recently released its 2027 Best Colleges & Universities Rankings, delving beyond mere numbers to reveal insights about the educational landscape. With an array of metrics influencing these rankings, it’s essential for parents to understand what they mean for their children's future. WalletHub's Evaluation Methodology Unpacked WalletHub ranked 738 institutions based on 30 different measures, categorizing them into student selectivity, cost and financing, educational outcomes, faculty resources, campus safety, and overall experience. This thorough analysis ensures that a wide variety of factors contribute to a school's reputation, which allows parents to make informed decisions. Metrics such as post-graduation earnings and graduation rates can provide a sneak peek into potential returns on educational investment, equipping families with vital knowledge to guide their choices. Spotlight on New Jersey's Top Institutions The top players in New Jersey's ranking showcase a broad spectrum of educational opportunities. Here's a quick overview of WalletHub's top five: Princeton University: Topping the list, Princeton offers remarkable selectivity and financial commitment to its students. Stevens Institute of Technology: This institution ranks high for its student-support structure and job placement rates. New Jersey Institute of Technology: NJIT stands out with its affordability and strong graduation rate. Rutgers University–New Brunswick: A solid choice, especially for those looking at diverse academic pathways. The College of New Jersey: Known for campus safety and academic excellence. Understanding the Importance of 'Fit' While rankings are informative, selecting a college should be about fit rather than just reputation. Different students have varying goals and financial situations, making it essential to weigh the net cost against the perceived value. As Marybeth Gasman highlights, "families should compare the actual net price, not the published ‘sticker’ price," emphasizing the need for transparency in financial aid offerings. Beyond the Numbers: Other Key Considerations As you guide your child through this significant life decision, it’s vital to consider factors such as: Campus Culture: Is it a collaborative atmosphere? A competitive environment? Location: Does your child prefer urban or rural settings for their college experience? Programs Offered: Are there specific majors or extracurricular activities that can enhance their college life? These elements play a critical role in overall satisfaction and can heavily influence academic success and personal wellbeing. A Broader Perspective: Trends in Higher Education The landscape of higher education is evolving, impacted significantly by economic factors and societal needs. As tuition rates continue to soar, the return on investment for a college education is becoming an increasingly important consideration for many families. Programs focused on job readiness and internship opportunities are higher on students' priority lists, making NJ colleges that place emphasis on these aspects even more appealing. Conclusion: Making Informed Choices The path to higher education is one that requires careful thought and consideration. Armed with insights from WalletHub's 2027 rankings and a deeper understanding of what each institution offers, New Jersey families can embark on this journey with confidence. Choosing the right college is not just about academic prestige; it's about preparing for a future that aligns with students' aspirations and individual journeys. For parents seeking additional information or resources on New Jersey education, consider checking out local NJ family guides and events that can aid in making informed decisions about your child’s future.

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