The holiday season is officially here, and there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the magic in and around Mendham. 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 Mendham 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. Enjoy a festive farm outing at Alstede Farms.
At Alstede Farms, families can celebrate the season with Brunch with Santa on select dates, complete with a festive buffet and photo opportunities inside Harvest Hall. Time slots are limited to 90 minutes, and advanced reservations are required, with tables sold in groups of four, six or eight. Visitors can also add a cut-your-own Christmas tree experience featuring Douglas firs ranging from 5 to 7 feet tall. With preserved farmland, scenic views and a long-standing family legacy, Alstede Farms offers a memorable winter visit just minutes from Mendham.
2. Explore peaceful winter trails at Schiff Nature Preserve.
Schiff Nature Preserve offers a serene retreat with well-marked trails ideal for cold-weather hikes amid quiet, snow-dusted woods. The 780-acre property spans the Mendhams and Chester and includes land within the Ralston Historic District, which is listed on the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places. Hikers will also encounter features that reflect four distinct cultural time periods, including historic artifacts and geological formations.
3. Experience the Christmas Festival at the Morristown Green.
Each December, the
Christmas Festival at the Morristown Green turns the historic square into a nostalgic holiday village filled with glowing lights and festive cheer. The celebration continues through Dec. 21 with weekend crafts, entertainment and miniature train rides. Families can visit Santa for photos Fridays through Sundays (photo fee is $15) or feast on warm treats like hot chocolate, cider and cookies, offered by Hyatt Regency Morristown.
4. Lace up for public skating at Mennen Sports Arena.
Just minutes from Mendham, the
William G. Mennen Sports Arena offers one of the region’s best places to glide into winter fun, with convenient schedules through Dec. 23 and extended holiday sessions beginning Dec. 26. The arena hosts
daily public skating sessions across its three rinks, with both weekday and weekend options ideal for families, beginners or seasoned skaters honing their skills. Guests can rent skates, join Learn-to-Skate classes — one of the top programs in the nation — or book private lessons from accomplished coaches, including former Olympians.
5. Catch a holiday performance at the Mayo Performing Arts Center.
The
Mayo Performing Arts Center, a short drive from Mendham, brings the magic of December to life with concerts, ballets and family-friendly seasonal shows. This year’s
holiday lineup features A Magical Cirque Christmas and The Nutcracker by New Jersey Ballet with New Jersey Symphony, running Dec. 12–27. The schedule includes both matinee and evening performances. Holiday shows often sell out, so buy your tickets early to lock in your preferred showtimes.
6. Browse exhibitions during a winter visit to the Morris Museum.
On chilly December days, the
Morris Museum offers a warm, art-filled retreat just minutes from Mendham. Open Wednesday through Sunday, visitors can browse inventive exhibitions, enjoy live performances or join
educational programs that add a welcome spark to the slower winter season. With affordable admission — and free entry for members, young children and active military families — it’s an easy indoor outing when you want something festive without being outdoors.
7. Start your holiday traditions at the Hidden Pond Tree Farm.
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.,
Hidden Pond Tree Farm is a December staple in Mendham, drawing families to pick out spruces and firs beneath crisp winter skies. Between the bonfire, marshmallow roasts and the always-popular Christmas Train, the farm has a cheerful, old-fashioned holiday atmosphere that makes tree-shopping feel like an event. Those looking for extra magic can book the
Santa Expedition — a nighttime train ride that brings children to Santa’s Secret Outpost for a memorable visit.
8. Wander through Turtle Back Zoo’s glowing Holiday Lights display.
During December,
Turtle Back Zoo transforms into a sparkling winter attraction, featuring more than 50 illuminated animal and seasonal characters during its
Holiday Lights display. Families can stroll the grounds from 5–9 p.m., taking in the glowing tunnels, cheerful music and festive scenes that brighten even the coldest nights. Admission is free, and visitors are encouraged to bring toys, coats or food donations to support local drives. The event runs through early January (closed Dec. 24–25 and Jan. 1).
9. Pick up freshly roasted beans from El Monte Coffee Roasters.
December is the perfect time to stock up on freshly roasted beans from
El Monte Coffee Roasters, where each batch is crafted with careful attention to flavor and sourcing. Their team can recommend roasts that hold up well on cold mornings, whether you’re after something bold or a smoother blend for slower holiday weekends. Shoppers can also find great gift options, with a variety of origins suited to different brewing styles.
10. Discover seasonal reads and local gifts at Chapter One Bookstore.
Chapter One in Mendham creates a bright, inviting space for winter browsing, with shelves full of fiction, nonfiction, kids’ books and local authors. The store’s organized layout and curated New Jersey author section make it easy to explore new genres or find something meaningful for someone on your list. Families can relax in the seating area or check out the puzzles, jewelry and kid-friendly chalkboard that give the shop its welcoming winter feel.
11. Feast on a cozy winter dinner at Piattino.
Piattino serves modern Italian dishes made with artisan ingredients, offering a warm spot to gather for a holiday-season meal. The stone-fired oven anchors the menu with rustic pizzas and pastas that suit a chilly December night.
Reservations can be made through Resy to help families and groups plan ahead during the busy dining season.
12. Find festive gifts and home décor at Simply Country.
Simply Country, located in the heart of downtown Mendham, offers a curated collection of home décor, candles, clothing, bags and unique gifts. The locally owned shop has served the community for 24 years and carries baby gifts, teacher gifts and rustic décor perfect for the winter season. Whether you're shopping for a thoughtful present or browsing for inspiration, the store is filled with charming finds, making it a great holiday-season stop.
Stay warm, shop local and enjoy every twinkling moment — happy holidays, Mendham!
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