12 Days Of Cheer In Bridgewater: Making This A December To Remember

The holiday season is officially here, and there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the magic in and around Bridgewater. To help get you in the spirit, we’ve rounded up a dozen festive ideas you can enjoy throughout the month — each one a fun, joyful way to celebrate the season close to home.

From twinkling light displays and holiday markets to cozy treats, local shopping spots, winter activities and seasonal shows, these 12 picks highlight what makes Bridgewater feel especially merry this time of year. Whether you check off one or all twelve, it’s all about slowing down, supporting local businesses and making memories.

1. Explore the sparkling local light displays.

Bridgewater neighborhoods shine each December, with residents creating some of the most spirited displays in Somerset County. This Patch guide is a great starting point, highlighting favorites like Lenape Trail, 15 Forest Ave, the floating spheres near Southbrook/Cornell and the festive corner of Plymouth Road and Jeffery Lane. Nearby Hillsborough goes all out too, with a music-synced show at 21 Starview Drive and a sky-filling display at 16 White Meadow Road. And because new displays pop up every year, it’s always worth driving your own neighborhood to discover fresh holiday magic.

2. Wander through the festive indoor forest at the Festival of Trees.

Held inside the Environmental Education Center on Milltown Road, this long-running tradition is a celebration of creativity with beautifully decorated trees from local groups and community members. The exhibit runs Dec. 5 through 28, 2025 (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day), making it an easy stop any time you need a dose of holiday cheer. With seasonal music, artistic tree designs and opportunities to support Toys for Tots, it’s a warm and uplifting break from the winter chill. A suggested donation of $5 helps support the event and its programs.

3. Lace up for public skating at Rocket Sports Group.

Whether you’re brushing up on your skating skills or simply looking for a fun winter outing, RSG here in Bridgewater offers open skate sessions inside a state-of-the-art facility. Admission is $12 ($6 for skate rentals), with special Friday Night Theme Nights featuring a DJ for an added splash of energy. Check the schedule and register online to reserve your spot.

4. Savor refined Italian cuisine at Café Emilia.

This beloved Bridgewater restaurant blends traditional Italian flavors with inventive touches for a dining experience that’s both elegant and deeply comforting. Chef Agim’s menu highlights timeless techniques and rich culinary heritage, offering dishes that feel thoughtfully crafted from start to finish. Whether you’re celebrating the season or enjoying a cozy winter night out, the atmosphere is warm, sophisticated and ideal for lingering over a memorable meal.

5. Find meaningful, feel-good gifts at Sunnyside Gifts.

Known for its “Zen and fun” vibe, Sunnyside Gifts is a family-run shop in nearby Hillsborough filled with uplifting items perfect for holiday giving. From mindful décor to playful gifts, everything here reflects the owners’ mission of conscious business practices and community well-being. It’s the kind of shop where you wander in looking for one present and leave with treasures you didn’t know you needed.

6. Take a dazzling drive through a massive light show in East Brunswick.

Just about 35 minutes from Bridgewater, Winter WonderLights is an animated drive-thru display in East Brunswick that features over 2 million lights, sparkling tunnels, themed scenes and synchronized holiday music. Each section of the show feels bigger and brighter than the last, making it a hit for families, date nights and anyone who loves immersive seasonal experiences. The full route takes around 20 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the glow from your warm car. Tickets must be reserved in advance to guarantee your entry.

7. Warm up with breakfast, mocktails, or a lobster roll at the Bridgewater Café.

This friendly neighborhood spot on Union Avenue goes far beyond traditional café fare, serving a range of dishes from comforting breakfast options to fresh lobster rolls through its partnership with Mystic Lobster Company. The Bridgewater Café is welcoming, pet-friendly (for service animals) and perfect for lingering over a winter morning coffee. Their mocktails and desserts are local favorites, especially when you’re looking for something festive.

8. Catch a movie—and a meal—at the AMC Dine-In Bridgewater 7.

A night at this dine-in theater transforms an ordinary movie outing into a full experience, with meals delivered right to your seat and a menu that ranges from classics to indulgent treats. December is a great time to take advantage of deals like Discount Tuesdays and Wednesdays or early-day matinee pricing. Mobile ordering makes it easy to skip concession lines, and for adults, the MacGuffins Bar adds a festive touch.

9. Go bowling and arcade hopping at Lucky Strike Green Brook.

Just a quick drive from Bridgewater is Lucky Strike Green Brook, which offers a lively mix of bowling, arcade games and casual dining. With 48 lanes, accessibility features and online lane reservations, it’s easy to plan a fun night out during the holiday season. The sports bar and lounge make it a great spot for groups, while the arcade adds extra entertainment for younger visitors. Whether it’s family night or a festive meetup with friends, there’s something here for every age.

10. Sip sustainably roasted coffee at Black River Roasters.

Black River Roasters in Whitehouse Station is a specialty café that roasts organic, Fair Trade and Rainforest Alliance Certified beans. The cozy space and fresh-roasted aroma make it a relaxing winter refuge, perfect for a weekend treat or a warm drink after checking out local lights. Every cup reflects transparency and care from seed to sip, giving you a feel-good break during the busy holiday season.

11. Catch 'Ebenezer Scrooge's Big Jersey Christmas' at NBPAC.

About 25 minutes away in New Brunswick, the George Street Playhouse company is sharing its own reimagining of the classic Dickens story—with a Jersey twist. In this high-energy production, Scrooge's local holiday adventures are full of "Garden State spirit, unexpected laughs and a dash of holiday magic." "Ebenezer Scrooge's Big Jersey Christmas" is running at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center on select dates from Dec. 2 through 21. See NBPAC's events page for show times and ticket purchases.

12. Celebrate the season with Santa and more at Bridgewater Commons.

Bridgewater Commons transforms during the holiday season for photos with Santa (Nov. 15 through Dec. 24), including sensory-friendly Santa Cares events and special pet-friendly photo sessions benefiting the local animal shelter. Beyond the seasonal programming, the center’s shops and restaurants make it a convenient hub for gift-buying and winter errands. The festive décor and family-friendly atmosphere add an extra spark to any visit.

Stay warm, shop local and enjoy every twinkling moment — happy holidays, Bridgewater!

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