Christmas, Hanukkah Events In Westfield: Parades, Santa Sightings

WESTFIELD, NJ — There are plenty of things going on around Westfield to celebrate the 2023 winter holidays.

Hanukkah, the eight-day Jewish festival of lights, starts at sundown on Dec. 7, and ends at nightfall on Dec. 15. Christmas, of course, is on Dec. 25, but you don’t have to wait to start taking in all the sights and sounds of the season.

Menorah lightings in Westfield are:

• Westfield's annual menorah lighting will take place on Thursday, Dec. 7, at 6:30 with the Union County Torah Center Chabad, followed by Hanukkah Happiness events in Downtown Westfield December 7 to 9, and The Beauty of Kwanzaa on Dec. 16.

Christmas parades, often complete with Santa Claus, festively decorated floats and marching bands, are a holiday tradition, both nationally and locally.

Parades in Westfield may not be able to match the size of Macy's Thanksgiving parade, but the heart behind them is just as big. Parades to catch here at home include:

• Somerville's Holiday Lights Parade on Saturday, Dec. 2 at 5:30 p.m. on Main Street in Somerville will feature lighted and decorated fire trucks, ambulances, and emergency responder vehicles with Santa as well.

Holiday lighting displays and events are another holiday favorite. Some to catch in Bridgewater are:

• Santa at The Mills at Jersey Gardens at 651 Kapkowski Rd, Elizabeth. Guests can visit and take photos with Santa through Dec 24.
• Santa Claus at Warinanco Park in Roselle on Sunday, Dec. 3. The event will take place at the Warinanco Sports Center from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 3. Enjoy ice skating, holiday carols and refreshments, and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus and his elves. Tickets are $8 each, and include 2-hour entry, skate rentals, hot chocolate and a cookie. Tickets must be purchased in advance online at warinancopark.com.

Other Holiday Offerings:

• Where To Cut Or Buy A Christmas Tree Around Westfield
• Where To See Santa In Westfield This Christmas Season