Christmas is FIVE weeks away! How crazy is that?!
There’s a chill in the air, and soon enough, we’ll be driving past twinkling houses. Some of
us will be sipping on hot chocolate while others will enjoy a glass of eggnog, but most
importantly, we’ll be thinking of ways to enjoy the season with our friends and families
without spending too much money or traveling too far.
What better way to kick off the season than to see a Christmas tree light up? Here are four
local Christmas tree lighting celebrations that are absolutely FREE and are sure to get you in
the Christmas spirit!
Palmer Square Annual Tree Lighting
November 25th – 5 PM
In the heart of Princeton, Palmer Square has a beautiful large tree that will be decorated with 32,000 lights! If you like charming and quaint towns, then there’s nothing better than the historical town of Princeton, NJ. With tons of restaurants, you’ll have the opportunity to grab a bite and, of course, take pictures with Santa. South Jersey’s legendary and high-energy band, Don’t Call Me Francis, will also be making an appearance along with the Flying Ivories, who will be back to Duel on the Pianos once more!
On the Green at Palmer Square
40 Nassau Street
Princeton, NJ 08542
Grand Illumination Celebration
November 18th – 6 PM
Over in Bucks County, PA, Peddlers Village won’t light up just one tree… they will light up an
entire village! Join them at 6:15 p.m sharp as Santa and Mrs. Claus flip the switch to
illuminate Peddler’s Village. Enjoy musical and dance performances by local groups, as well
as sing-alongs with Santa. The holiday lights will be displayed every evening through
January 8, 2023. Shops will be open until 10 p.m. Free admission and parking.
Peddler’s Village
2400 Street Road
New Hope, PA 18938
Middletown’s Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration
December 4th – 5 PM
If you’re looking for something unique such as ice sculptures and horse drawn carriages,
then you won’t want to miss Middletown, NJ’s celebration. Santa will be arriving for pictures,
crafts, caroling and free giveaways! There’s something here for everyone in the family! Free
admission and parking.
Middletown Arts Center
36 Church Street
Middletown, NJ 07748
Holiday Lights Spectacular
November 19th – December 4th – Evenings & Weekends ONLY – 5PM – 9PM
December 9th – December 31st – Every evening
Take a winter stroll through the Turtle Back Zoo this holiday season under the sparkling lights of over 50 winter and animal characters. Admission is free, but please consider a donation of non-perishable food items, new (unwrapped) toys, or gently used coats.
The Holiday Lights Spectacular will kick-off in the evenings starting at 5 PM on the weekend of November 19th and then every evening from Friday December 9th – Saturday December 31st. (Closed on December 24th & 25th). There will be tons of activities for you to enjoy such as carousel rides, touch tank, reptile house and more!
Turtle Back Zoo
560 Northfield Ave
West Orange, NJ 07052
While you’re out with your loved ones, be sure to spread some hope and encouragement
this holiday season. Here’s my quick challenge for when you’re out there having fun:
Buy someone a hot chocolate or a snack and wish them a Merry Christmas. Maybe someone
waiting behind you in line… OR offer to take their picture in front of the Christmas tree. We
all want family pictures, but sometimes it can be awkward to ask strangers.
Don’t forget to share your pictures on social media and tag us @STAR991FM on Instagram & Facebook.
Hope you have an awesome start to the holidays!
Isha Zaitz
Community Engagement Manager and Personality, STAR 99.1
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