2025 Bernardsville Holiday Guide: Lights, Festive Fun & Good Cheer

The holiday season has arrived in Bernardsville, bringing twinkling lights, cheerful events and plenty of ways to make memories close to home. From light displays to beloved local traditions, here are the hometown holiday highlights you won’t want to miss.

Please note: Dates and details are subject to change, so be sure to check with each organizer before you go — many events require tickets or reservations in advance.

Abma’s Weihnachtsmarkt Christmas Market

When: December 5–6, 2025 | 10 am – 5 pm
Where: 282 Amwell Road, Hillsborough, NJ
This German‑style market features artisan vendors, handmade gifts, festive décor and seasonal food trucks. Visitors can meet the Grinch, enjoy the petting zoo and soak in the holiday cheer. Admission is free, with à la carte activities available.
More info: abmasfarm.com/weihnachtsmarkt

Festival of Trees at the Environmental Education Center

When: December 5 – December 10, 2025 | 9 am – 4:30 pm
Where: 190 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge, NJ
This annual showcase features dozens of uniquely decorated trees created by local organizations, schools and artists. Each room offers a different theme, from whimsical to elegant, making it a fun and inspiring holiday outing. Indoors and family‑friendly, it’s a reliable option no matter the weather.
More info: visitsomersetnj.org/series/47th-festival-of-trees

Flounder’s 5th Annual Kringle Market

When: December 13, 2025 | 11 am – 5 pm
Where: Carriage Farm, 2 Clerico Lane, Hillsborough, NJ
This large holiday market hosts 45+ vetted craft vendors alongside food trucks, live brass band music, carolers and dance performances. Families can enjoy free photos with Santa, meet Buddy the Elf and spot the Grinch at the Christmas tree lot. Parking is $10 per car to offset the costs of the event, which directly supports local small businesses.
More info: flounderbrewing.com/music-and-events/5th-annual-kringle-market

RVCC Planetarium Holiday Shows & Laser Concerts

When: December 6, 13, 20, 2025 | Multiple showtimes
Where: 118 Lamington Road, Branchburg, NJ
The Planetarium offers festive programming, including The Alien Who Stole Christmas (3 pm), Winter Wonder Lights laser concerts (4 pm & 8 pm) and The Christmas Star (7 pm). These shows blend astronomy, storytelling and music for a unique holiday experience. Tickets are sold at the door; reservations are recommended.
More info: raritanval.edu/planetarium/public-shows

Norz Hill Farm Holiday Lights Hayride

When: November 28 – December 21, 2025 | Fridays–Sundays evenings (see website for times)
Where: 120 South Branch Road, Hillsborough, NJ
Guests board tractor‑drawn wagons for a ride through dazzling light displays, interactive scenes and festive farm décor. Afterward, warm up by the fire pits with hot cocoa and marshmallows, or shop seasonal goods at the farm stand. It’s a cozy, family‑friendly way to enjoy holiday lights close to home.
More info: norzhillfarm.com/events/pre-winter-farm-days

Black River & Western Railroad North Pole Express

When: December 6 – December 22, 2025 | Multiple departures
Where: Black River & Western Railroad, 80 Stangl Road, Flemington, NJ
This holiday train ride offers families a festive journey to the “North Pole” with storytelling, carols and seasonal treats. Children receive a silver sleigh bell from Santa himself, making the experience interactive and memorable. The ride also features decorated coaches, hot cocoa and cookies, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for holiday traditions. Located about 30 minutes from the Bernardsville–Bedminster area, it’s a convenient alternative to the sold‑out Whippany Polar Express.
More info: blackriverrailroad.com/train-rides/santa-express-train

Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights Spectacular

When: November 29 – December 31, 2025 (closed Dec 24–25) | 5 pm – 9 pm
Where: 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ
This free walk‑through light show features over 50 dazzling displays, carousel rides and indoor exhibits. Weekend Santa visits and family activities add to the festive atmosphere. Donations are encouraged to support the zoo.
More info: turtlebackzoo.com/events/holiday-lights-2025

Enjoy the season, make a few memories close to home and have a happy holiday, Bernardsville!

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