Toms River Christmas Tree Lighting, Winter Wonderland Set For 2023

TOMS RIVER, NJ — Downtown Toms River will turn into a winter wonderland again in 2023 as the town kicks off the holiday season with its annual Christmas tree lighting celebration.

The Christmas tree lighting is set for Friday, Dec. 1 in the courtyard at town hall, 33 Washington St. and the festivities begin at 5 p.m.

The celebration includes live entertainment by the Toms River High School South choir, the Donovan Catholic choir, The Dance Center, and Microphonics from the Ocean County Arts Center.

There will be a special reading of "Twas the Night Before Christmas" by Sir Richard Cox, holiday crafts and Toms River Fire Company 1 will be selling hot chocolate and cookies.

Keep an eye out for a special appearance by Anna and Elsa from "Frozen."

Santa Claus is scheduled to arrive by fire truck at 7 p.m. to light the tree, and there will be photos with Santa afterward inside Town Hall.

After the tree lighting, the courtyard will be transformed into a Winter Wonderland for two Saturday, Dec. 2 and Dec. 9.

The Winter Wonderland Village, which will be open from noon to 6 p.m. both days, will include vendors, children's activities, a hot chocolate station, holiday music and more.

Those who are interested in becoming vendors at the Winter Wonderland can CONTcontact the Downtown Toms River Business Improvement District online.

Space is limited. The one-day fee is $85 and the two-day fee is $150.

Note: This article has been updated to correct the dates of Winter Wonderland. Patch regrets the error.