The holiday season is in full swing and light shows are illuminating the Garden State this year. Amongst your holiday gift shopping, decking the halls, and tuning into ABC Family’s “25 days of Christmas,” I highly suggest you the find time to see these radiant light shows. Here are some of the most spectacular displays in NJ that are sure to put anyone in the holiday spirit:
1.Historic Smithville
Location: Smithville, NJ
Website: http://www.historicsmithvillenj.com
See a display of 100 Christmas trees float along Lake Meone along with holiday music. Also, there is a variety of shops and restaurants in the area to go to after the show. Plus, the light show is free.
2. Cranbury Christmas Lights
Location: 128 North Main Street, Cranbury, NJ 08512
Website: www.cranburychristmaslights.com
The Cranbury light show is known for their tree of lights that has more lights on it than the Rockefeller Center tree. Also, with a 120,000 light display, this is show is considered one of the best in the state. The display is free, but donations for charity are appreciated. Not only can you enjoy a light show, but you can also donate to those in need.
3.Schaefer Farms
Location: 1051 County Route 523, Flemington, NJ 08822
Enjoy thousands of holiday lights from the comfort of your own car. Rebecca Leone, a sophomore business student loves having the option to stay in her car for holiday light shows. “It is so much more enjoyable to see the lights from your car because you can stay in the heat instead of freezing outside in the cold,” said Leone.
4. Turtle Back Zoo
Location: Turtle Back Zoo 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange NJ 07052
Website:www.turtlebackzoo.com/holiday-lights-zoo/
Visit the Turtle Back Zoo this holiday season, which is draped with lights and fantastic displays. Admission is free but donations of non-perishable food items, toys and coats are encouraged.
5. The Christmas Light Show
Location: 2702 Woolley Road, Wall NJ 07719
The Christmas light show is a free outdoor event featuring music and holiday lights on Daniel Brateris’ home, the engineer behind the light show. Any donations that are made are given to a local charity for Challenged Youth Sports.
This December, take a trip to any of these light shows across New Jersey for free or donate to embrace the giving season. Most shows are open every night and are in operation from now until the first of January. Be sure to check out their websites if you have any further questions. These shows are entertaining for all ages and make for a great holiday tradition.
Professor Maria Ciezak, an adjunct communication professor loves these displays, “I love Christmas lights. I really enjoy light shows.” If you are unable to attend one of these light shows because of finals or you are simply are just too busy shopping, drive around your neighborhood. You’ll be surprised at how many of your fellow neighbors deck their halls.
Nicole Meissner, a sophomore business student does not travel to light shows because her town is filled with holiday spirit. “Almost every house is decorated. My town takes the holiday season very seriously,” said Meissner. These light shows across New Jersey could even make the Grinch of your group appreciate this holiday season.
