12 Days Of Cheer In East Windsor: 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 East Windsor. 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 East Windsor 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. See the lights around town for East Windsor’s Holiday Home Decorating Contest.

East Windsor residents go all-out for the township’s annual Holiday Home Decorating Contest, transforming neighborhoods into a festive nighttime tour. Participants across townhomes, single-family homes and apartments showcase family-friendly displays judged solely on creativity. Winners will be announced in early 2026 on the East Windsor Township E-News, offering a fun way to celebrate community spirit throughout the season.

2. Catch a live holiday performance at the State Theatre.

A lineup of seasonal shows fills the calendar at the State Theatre in New Brunswick, just a short drive from East Windsor. This year’s programming includes favorites such as A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage, Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis, and Kenny G’s holiday and hits tour. Families can also look forward to Cirque Dreams Holidaze on Dec. 12–13 and American Repertory Ballet’s staging of The Nutcracker from Dec. 18–21. If you can’t decide which show to catch, you don’t have to choose—the theatre is offering a 10% discount when you purchase tickets to two shows, and 20% for three.

3. Enjoy coffee and community at Grover’s Mill Coffee Co.

A quick trip to West Windsor brings you to Grover’s Mill Coffee Co., a cozy café known for locally roasted beans and its connection to The War of the Worlds broadcast site. The space blends history and community, offering breakfast sandwiches, baked goods and rotating live music. Every other Thursday, guests can join open mic night, which includes a complimentary medium beverage with a $10 paid entry.

4. Glide into winter fun at Mercer County Skating Rink.

The open-air Mercer County Skating Center has welcomed skaters since 1975 and remains a popular seasonal outing to this day. Its covered rink offers public skating daily through February (closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day), along with stick time for experienced hockey players to practice their skills. Before you go, download the public skating calendar from the website to confirm times.

5. Catch ‘Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas’ at Picture Show.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and Picture Show at East Windsor is celebrating with special screenings. Showings are available December 12 through December 17 at 11:10 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. While you wait for the event, round up the family to enjoy other current releases such as Zootopia 2 and Wicked: For Good.

6. Create handmade holiday décor at Board & Brush South Brunswick.

A hands-on seasonal workshop at Board & Brush South Brunswick offers a fun evening close to home for DIY enthusiasts and friend groups. The studio provides all materials and guidance for projects like ornaments, wreaths, mini signs and small gift items. Holiday-themed sessions tend to fill quickly, so browse the workshop calendar to plan out your night in advance.

7. Take a drive through Winter Wonderlights.

Only half an hour from East Windsor, the immersive display at Winter Wonderlights in East Brunswick boasts over 2 million animated lights synchronized to festive music. Visitors drive through themed tunnels and glowing scenes that celebrate classic holiday imagery, from snowflakes to candy canes. Tickets are required for entry and can be purchased online.

8. Experience ‘A Christmas Carol’ at McCarter.

If you’re headed into Princeton, catch an all-new staging of “A Christmas Carol” at McCarter between Dec. 9–28. This year’s production features acclaimed actor Cameron Knight as Ebenezer Scrooge, bringing fresh energy to the story’s themes of generosity and transformation. The show blends music, theatrical design and heartfelt performances in a production that’s sure to appeal to longtime fans and newcomers alike. View the schedule and purchase your tickets online—a few dates are already close to selling out.

9. Shop local makers at the Artist Winter Village.

While you’re in the area, the Arts Council of Princeton’s Artist Winter Village brings a festive marketplace to Hinds Plaza, now through December 31. Four holiday chalets will be open Thursdays through Sundays from noon to 6 p.m., with additional rotating artists joining the plaza on weekends from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. With offerings including handmade textiles, jewelry, candles, ceramics and children’s wear, you’re likely to leave with at least a few treasures for yourself or your loved ones.

10. Sip seasonal wines at Working Dog Winery.

Just a few minutes from East Windsor, Working Dog Winery in Hightstown offers a relaxing weekend outing away from the hustle and bustle. The nearly 20-acre vineyard, established in 2001, continues to produce award-winning estate wines rooted in Mercer County’s terroir. Guests can visit Thursday through Sunday to enjoy tastings and scenic views of the property. The events calendar highlights live music, trivia nights and even a few holiday-themed craft workshops.

11. Browse new reads at Labyrinth Books.

A short drive to Princeton brings you to Labyrinth Books, a celebrated independent bookstore known for its academic titles, contemporary reads, children’s books and rotating discounted selections. The shop is also Princeton University’s official bookstore and a vibrant hub for author talks, lectures and signings. With its wide-ranging inventory and daily hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., it’s a great place to find gifts for avid readers or just escape in a good book for a few.

12. Explore art and nature at Grounds for Sculpture.

Hamilton Township’s Grounds for Sculpture offers a serene winter outing across 42 acres of sculpture installations, landscaped paths and indoor galleries close to home. The space, located on the former site of the historic Trenton Speedway, blends large-scale outdoor works with rotating exhibitions in its museum buildings. Timed tickets are required and can be purchased online.

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

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