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

The holiday season has arrived in Galloway, 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.

Light Show on the Lake

When: Every day in December | 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Where: Historic Smithsville | 615 E. Moss Mill Rd., Galloway, NJ

It’s officially that time of year, and the light show at Historic Smithsville is back and as magical as ever. Watch in awe as you watch over 100 Christmas trees light up and play music in a beautiful, orchestrated show. In addition to the light show, there are local shops, eateries, a train ride and several seasonal events to try.
More info: historicsmithville.com/smithville-events/december-smithville

Ocean City Christmas Parade

When: Friday, Dec. 5 | 6 p.m.
Where: Asbury Avenue, Ocean City, NJ

Take a quick ride over the bridge on the first Friday of December for the Ocean City Christmas Parade to kick off the Christmas season. Featuring a variety of Christmas characters, musical talents and locals in the community, the perfect event to spread holiday cheer as Santa makes his way into Atlantic County. The party doesn’t just start and end with the parade; there will be time to shop at local shops around the start time.
More info: ocnj.us/Christmas-Parade

Galloway Township’s Tree Lighting Ceremony & Santa’s Arrival

When: Saturday, Dec. 6 | 4–6 p.m.
Where: Galloway Municipal Recreational Complex | 320 E. Jimmie Leeds Rd., Galloway, NJ

Grab your family this first Saturday and start the season right with the city tree lighting and the arrival of Santa Claus himself. Enjoy live music from the Absegami High School Choir while enjoying cookies and hot chocolate provided by Galloway EMS. Then, when you think it is all over, look to the sky and enjoy the closing firework show to end the evening.
More info: facebook.com/events/galloway-municipal-recreational-complex/galloway-township-tree-lighting-santas-arrival-2025

Christmas Fantasy with Lights

When: Operating days now–Dec. 22 | Times vary, check website
Where: Storybook Land | 6415 E. Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ

Formerly featured on ABC’s Great Christmas Light Fight, Storybook Land’s holiday lights will be returning once again, almost making it 40 years. The perfect event to bring your young ones to for an evening of thrill and holiday cheer. Be sure to get your tickets prior to Christmas for a chance to watch Santa light the park, but also to sit and speak with him.
More info: storybookland.com/christmas

Somers Point Christmas Parade

When: Saturday, Dec. 6 | 6 p.m.
Where: Somers Point, NJ

If you’re looking for another option for a parade to start the season, Somers Point will be hosting a parade on the first Saturday of December. The parade starts at Dawes Avenue School and makes its way down Shore Road all the way to City Hall. Enjoy the music of the live bands, the sights of the beautiful floats and of course, the joy of greeting Santa!
More info: facebook.com

Atlantic City Holiday Parade & Market

When: Saturday, Dec. 13 | 4:30 p.m.
Where: O’Donnell Memorial Park | Atlantic Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ

A slight change of date and route, but the annual Atlantic City Holiday Parade will take place Saturday, Dec. 13 and bring the same energy and excitement as years in the past. Start with us at City Hall as the floats make their way down Atlantic, South Carolina and Albany Avenue, playing live music for the city to hear. Then you can wrap up your evening at the holiday market and find something for yourself or a loved one.
More info: acnj.gov/News/View/2394/atlantic-city-s-holiday-parade-and-market-brings-seasonal-joy-on-saturday-december-13th

Magical Express

When: Dec. 3–23 | Fridays–Saturday, 4:45-8:45 p.m.; Sundays–Thursdays, 4:45-8 p.m.
Where: DiDonato Family Fun Center | 1151 White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ

The perfect event for children and adults alike, the DiDonato Magical Holiday Express is the perfect holiday experience this holiday season. Hop on the train and experience millions of lights, free cookies and hot chocolate to snack on and a walkthrough of the beautiful holiday village. Before your departure, make sure you get your meet and greet with Santa, Mrs. Claus and all their little helpers.
More info: didonatofuncenter.com/magical-express

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

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