Morris County Winter Activities: A Wonderland of Festivities
As winter blankets Morris County in a serene layer of snow, the region comes alive with festive cheer and cozy gatherings. From thrilling outdoor adventures to enchanting holiday events, Morris County offers many activities to enjoy during the winter months.
Outdoor Adventures
Ice Skating at Mennen Sports Arena
Morris Township, NJ
Enjoy ice skating at this Morristown venue, providing fun for all ages with public sessions ideal for families and couples alike.
Snowshoeing at Pyramid Mountain
Montville, NJ
Traverse the serene trails of Pyramid Mountain, offering stunning winter vistas and a peaceful escape into nature.
Winter Mountain Biking at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
Jefferson Township, NJ
Ride through snow-laden trails, experiencing the exhilarating thrill of mountain biking amidst panoramic winter views.
Winter Hiking at Schiff Nature Preserve
Mendham, NJ
From December through March, visitors can enjoy well-marked trails perfect for winter hiking, offering a peaceful retreat amidst snow-covered trees.
Cross-Country Skiing at Tourne County Park
Denville, NJ
Experience the thrill of cross-country skiing. The park's trails become a winter wonderland, providing an ideal setting for beginners and experienced.
Holiday Events
Christmas Festival at the Morristown Green
Morristown, NJ
Happening December 1-22, 2024, this celebration includes Santa visits, holiday crafts, and captivating music performances, lighting up the Morristown Green with festive cheer.
Home for the Holidays in Roxbury
Roxbury Township, NJ
On December 7, 2024, featuring local vendors, festive crafts, and engaging family activities. Enjoy a day filled with unique holiday shopping!
Christmas in the Village
Jefferson Township, NJ
On December 7, 2024, the Village of Milton hosts a day filled with holiday cheer, featuring live music, unique vendors, and activities for all ages. Stroll through the village as you enjoy seasonal treats and festive decorations, capturing the warm spirit of the holidays.
Deck the Halls at Macculloch Hall and Acorn Hall
Morristown, NJ
Celebrate the season with historic flair on December 7, 2024. These beautifully decorated halls offer festive tours and live music, providing a glimpse into past holiday traditions.
Christmas Tea with the Cranes
Morristown, NJ
Step back in time for a Victorian afternoon tea at Acorn Hall on December 15, 2024. Enjoy classic tea service complete with finger sandwiches and sweet delicacies, all within the elegant setting of this historic hall.
Performing Arts & Theatre
Nutcracker with New Jersey Symphony Orchestra
Morristown, NJ
From December 13-26, 2024, experience the magic of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker at the Mayo Performing Arts Center. The ballet's captivating performances and live symphony orchestra embody the spirit of the holiday season.
Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker and the New Grinch Suites
Morristown, NJ
Enjoy a jazz-infused holiday performance on December 22, 2024, at the Morris Museum. This creative twist on holiday classics adds a lively, modern flair to traditional tunes, making it a delightful experience for music lovers and families.
Opera at Florham's Holiday Spectacular
Morristown, NJ
Delight in a festive opera showcase on December 8, 2024, at St. Margaret of Scotland Church. With a repertoire of holiday-themed pieces performed by talented vocalists, this event offers a moving musical experience.
Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town
Santa Visits Main Street
Chester, NJ
On December 6 and 13, Historic Chester comes alive with nostalgic holiday charm as Santa visits Main Street, offering the perfect backdrop for a classic small-town Christmas outing. Families can also enjoy a special appearance from Elsa and Anna during the Christmas Tree Lighting celebration on December 7.
Christmas Festival at the Morristown Green
Morristown, NJ
The Christmas Festival at the Morristown Green kicks off on Saturday, November 29 with the beloved Lighting of the Green, beginning a month-long celebration filled with sparkling lights, festive activities, and Santa visits throughout December. Guests can enjoy crafts, train rides, treats, and photos with Santa during scheduled hours on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through December 21.
Brunch with Santa at Alstede Farms
Chester, NJ
On December 7, 13, and 14, families can enjoy a cozy, 90-minute Brunch with Santa at Alstede Farms, complete with seasonal dishes, cheerful photo opportunities, and optional holiday activities like choosing your own Christmas tree. With multiple seating times and reserved tables, it’s a warm and festive farm tradition.
Pictures with Santa at Hoffman’s Supply (Pet-Friendly)
Long Valley, NJ
Hoffman’s Supply welcomes families and pets on November 29 and December 6, 13, and 20 for its beloved Santa photo tradition, offering charming holiday portraits in exchange for a small donation benefiting the LVCAP food pantry. Visitors can also browse fresh trees, wreaths, décor, and seasonal essentials while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Winter Fest at Ort Farms
Long Valley, NJ
Winter Fest returns to Ort Farms on December 6, 7, 13, and 14, filling two weekends with glowing lights, Santa meet-and-greets, hayrides, crafts, and delicious seasonal treats. Visitors can explore the 30,000-light Holiday Barn and enjoy special appearances from Santa—right up to Christmas Eve.
Holly Trail and Santa Photos at Phoenix House
Mendham, NJ
On December 6, the historic Phoenix House offers a warm and intimate holiday experience featuring photos with Santa, complimentary cookies, and a festive stroll along the Holly Trail. Families simply need one household ticket to join the celebration.
Santa Photo Experience at Rockaway Townsquare
Rockaway, NJ
From November 14 through December 24, families can visit Santa at Rockaway Townsquare for a classic mall photo experience set against a beautifully festive backdrop in Macy’s Court. A sensory-friendly Caring Santa session on December 7 from 9:00–10:30 AM ensures every child has a comfortable opportunity to meet Santa.
Festive Farmyard at Fosterfields Living Historical Farm
Morristown, NJ
On December 6 and 7, Fosterfields transforms into a festive 1915 winter farm, offering families a nostalgic holiday experience complete with wagon rides, hands-on crafts, historical demonstrations, and a cheerful visit from Santa. It’s a timeless blend of history and holiday magic
Christmas Markets & Festivals
Christmas Festival at the Morristown Green
Morristown, NJ
The Christmas Festival at the Morristown Green kicks off on Saturday, November 29 at 5 PM with Santa’s grand arrival and the traditional lighting of the Green, beginning a month-long celebration of crafts, lights, music, and festive family fun. Families can visit each weekend—Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 7 PM and select Fridays from 3–8 PM—to soak in the holiday atmosphere.
Winterfest at Ort Farms
Long Valley, NJ
Ort Farms brings holiday magic to life across two festive December weekends, offering a glowing light trail, Santa visits, crafts, and warm seasonal treats. With its illuminated barns, cozy hayrides, and lively farm market, Winterfest is a must-visit countryside Christmas experience.
Country Christmas Weekend at Alstede Farms
Chester, NJ
Alstede Farms hosts its charming Country Christmas Weekends throughout December, treating guests to wagon rides, a festive Christmas Tree Barn, cut-your-own Douglas Firs, and a holiday marketplace. Each weekend becomes a joyful celebration blending European-style market charm with classic farm traditions.
Madison Farm & Artisan Market
Madison, NJ
Running every Saturday through December 13 from 9 AM to 2 PM, the Madison Farm & Artisan Market brings together local makers, gourmet foods, and handcrafted gifts for a festive small-town shopping experience. It’s the perfect December stop for seasonal treats and thoughtful presents.
Holiday Craft Morristown
Morristown, NJ
Holiday CraftMorristown returns December 12–14 with an exceptional lineup of 175 American craft artists offering handmade art, fashion, gourmet items, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Held at the Morristown Armory, this three-day event blends creativity and holiday spirit in an inspiring shopping atmosphere.
Winter Festival
East Hanover, NJ
East Hanover’s Winter Festival takes place on Sunday, December 7, from 2–6 PM, turning Town Hall into a lively hub of performances, activities, and community cheer. The day concludes with the town’s beloved Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Town Square Park.
Holiday Craft Fair at Rockaway Townsquare
Rockaway, NJ
The Rockaway Townsquare Holiday Craft Fair welcomes shoppers on December 13–14 and December 20–21 for two festive weekends of browsing handmade décor, jewelry, gifts, treats, and more. Located in the upper-level center concourse, it’s an easy and merry way to shop local for the holidays.
Christmas Barn at Morris County Farms
Denville, NJ
Throughout December, Morris County Farms’ Christmas Barn invites visitors to explore beautifully decorated rooms filled with ornaments, wreaths, trees, and festive displays. It’s a magical one-stop destination for transforming your home into a holiday wonderland.
Cultural & Historical Experiences
Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum
Landing, NJ
Dive into the rich history of Lake Hopatcong with interactive exhibits that make learning engaging and fun for all ages. The museum provides a captivating glimpse into the area's past, perfect for a family outing.
Morristown National Historical Park
Morristown, NJ
The park remains open for visitors to enjoy its trails and historical sites, such as Washington’s Headquarters and Jockey Hollow. Interpretive signs along the trails provide historical insights, making it a perfect spot for a reflective winter walk.
Ford Mansion
Morristown, NJ
The Ford Mansion offers guided tours when open, allowing visitors to step back in time to when George Washington set up his winter headquarters here. These tours highlight the strategic importance and the survival stories from the harsh winter of 1779-80.
Macculloch Hall Historical Museum
Morristown, NJ
Visitors can enjoy exhibitions and programs focused on local and national history through thoughtfully curated displays that delve into various historical periods, offering a warm and informative retreat from the cold.
Family-Friendly Activities
Frelinghuysen Arboretum
Morristown, NJ
This enchanting arboretum offers beautiful winter landscapes perfect for a family stroll, providing a peaceful retreat in nature's serene embrace.
Jockey Hollow Visitor Center
Morristown, NJ
Families can explore historical sites with interactive exhibits at Jockey Hollow, offering educational and entertaining experiences for children eager to learn about the past.
The Barnyard Under the Stars Holiday Lights
Morristown, NJ
Delight in a festive evening at Brookhollow's Barnyard, featuring enchanting holiday lights, train and tractor rides, and opportunities to feed the animals.
First Night Morris County
Morristown, NJ
Celebrate New Year's Eve at New Jersey's largest family-friendly event, featuring 70 performances across 23 venues. Live music, art exhibits, and a spectacular fireworks display make it the perfect setting to welcome the New Year in a safe and fun environment.
Savor the Local Flavor
Cinders Wood Fire Grill's Winter Menu
Morristown, NJ
Relish the comforting flavors of winter at Cinders Wood Fire Grill. The cozy atmosphere and hearty meals make it a favorite spot for diners seeking a memorable culinary experience.
Rails Steakhouse's Cozy Dining
Towaco, NJ
Enjoy a warm, inviting meal at Rails Steakhouse in Towaco. Whether for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, Rails offers a delightful dining experience that complements the winter season.
The Black Horse Tavern & Pub
Mendham, NJ
Gather in Mendham's historic tavern for a satisfying meal in a cozy setting. Known for its hearty dishes, the tavern provides an ideal venue for celebrating the season with family and friends, steeped in local tradition.
Casa Bella Restaurant in Denville
Morristown, NJ
This restaurant offers a perfect retreat from the winter chill. Their menu, rich with prime cuts of meat and savory veal dishes, pairs beautifully with a selection of robust wines, making it an ideal spot for a comforting winter meal.
The Black River Barn in Randolph
Towaco, NJ
This rustic venue is celebrated for its American comfort food, offering a menu that warms both heart and soul. Enjoy a meal by the fireplace, where generous portions and warm hospitality create a delightful winter dining experience.