Unmissable South Jersey Weekend Holiday Events This December

Your Must-See Weekend Events Guide: December 5–7

By Robert "Bob" Millaway, AI Certified Agent™ & South Jersey Lifestyle Specialist 

The holiday season is officially settling into South Jersey, and this weekend is packed with cozy festivals, creative escapes, and classic traditions. Whether you're looking to keep things local or venture a little farther for something special, here are the top events worth checking out from Burlington County to Camden County and beyond.

❄️ Winter Festival – Delran Township

📅 Saturday, December 5 📍 Delran Township, Burlington County 💰 Free

It's the perfect small-town kickoff to the season, with lights, music, and that familiar local energy that makes Delran feel like home. If you want something festive but easygoing, this is your low-stress weekend win. The township really goes all out with hot chocolate stations, local vendors, and live music that creates just the right atmosphere for families.

Bring the kids, meet some neighbors, sip something warm, and ease into December. Parking fills up fast after 6 PM, so arrive early if you want a spot close to the action. The best part? Everything happens within walking distance once you park, making it perfect for families with strollers or anyone who prefers not to trek across huge event spaces.

🎨 49th Annual Juried Art Show – Smithville Mansion

📅 Saturday & Sunday, December 6–7 🕒 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM 📍 Smithville Mansion Annex Gallery, Mt. Holly 💰 Free

If you need a calm, creative break from the holiday rush, this is your spot. The historic mansion provides the perfect backdrop for regional artists showcasing everything from traditional paintings to contemporary sculptures. Wander the gallery at your own pace, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and discover local talent you might not find anywhere else.

The mansion's architecture alone is worth the visit, and the adjoining grounds offer beautiful photo opportunities if the weather cooperates. Perfect for couples looking for a quieter date activity, solo explorers who appreciate art, and anyone who wants to support local creators while enjoying a slower pace for an hour or two.

🎄 Dickens Festival & Tree Lighting – Medford

📅 Saturday, December 6 🕒 Events throughout the day; tree lighting in the evening 📍 Main Street, Medford 💰 Free

Think small-town charm meets holiday sparkle. Main Street fills with costumed characters, street musicians, local vendors, and that warm seasonal energy that makes you want to move to a place like this. The Victorian-themed festivities transport you back in time, while modern touches like food trucks and local artisan booths keep things current.

The tree lighting ceremony typically happens around 6 PM and always feels like a moment worth slowing down for. Local tip: grab dinner at one of the Main Street restaurants before the ceremony, many offer special holiday menus during the festival, and you'll have a perfect view of the festivities while staying warm.

🎅 Holiday Village & Parade – Burlington City

📅 Saturday, December 6 🕒 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM 📍 Burlington City, NJ 💰 Free

A festive parade, village-style market, and plenty of lights make this one of the region's most cheerful holiday gatherings. Burlington City knows how to throw a celebration, and this event captures everything great about South Jersey community spirit. The parade features local schools, fire departments, scout troops, and businesses, creating that authentic hometown feel.

The holiday village stays open after the parade, giving families plenty of time to browse local vendors, grab some seasonal treats, and let kids visit with Santa. Great for families or anyone wanting to jump straight into holiday spirit mode without traveling far from Burlington County.

⭐ Bonus Weekend Adventures (Worth the Short Drive)

🩰 The Nutcracker – Philadelphia Ballet

📅 Friday, December 5, and all weekend long 📍 Academy of Music, Philadelphia 💰 Ticketed event

If you want something truly magical, this seasonal tradition never disappoints. The Academy of Music transforms into a winter wonderland, and the Philadelphia Ballet delivers gorgeous sets, stunning choreography, and that timeless story that captivates both kids and adults. It's about a 45-minute drive from most South Jersey locations, but worth every minute for this level of artistry.

Pro tip: Many South Jersey families make this an annual tradition, often combining it with dinner in Center City. The earlier weekend shows tend to be more family-friendly, while evening performances offer a more sophisticated atmosphere.

🎄 Deck the Hall – Festival of Trees (Atlantic City)

📅 Now through January 2 📍 Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City 💰 Ticketed event

Holiday magic meets ocean views in this spectacular display. The Festival of Trees fills the historic Boardwalk Hall with dozens of themed trees, each decorated by local businesses and organizations. It's creative, colorful, and offers that unmistakable Atlantic City energy that makes every visit feel special.

The venue's proximity to the boardwalk and casino dining options makes it easy to create a full day or evening experience. Many Camden County and Burlington County families use this as an excuse for a winter shore trip, enjoying the holiday atmosphere without summer crowds.

Making the Most of Your Weekend Plans

As an AI Certified Agent™ serving South Jersey families, I've learned that successful weekend planning often comes down to local knowledge and smart timing. The AI Listing Advantage program has taught me how technology can enhance even traditional experiences like holiday festivals, from checking real-time parking availability to coordinating group meetups through social media.

Holiday events ramp up quickly this time of year, and township websites often update with last-minute additions or weather-related changes. A quick Friday afternoon check can save you from driving to a cancelled outdoor event or help you discover a new indoor alternative.

Consider starting your weekend with drive-through light displays earlier in the evening when young children are still alert, then transitioning to walkable festivals and neighborhood tours as the night progresses. Many South Jersey families find that combining restaurant visits with festival attendance creates the perfect holiday outing that satisfies everyone's needs.

Local Insider Tips for Event Success

Parking strategies matter, especially at popular events like Burlington's Holiday Village or Medford's Dickens Festival. Most experienced locals arrive 30 minutes before official start times to secure convenient parking and get oriented before crowds build up.

The weather can change quickly in December, so layering is always smart for outdoor events. Even indoor venues like Smithville Mansion can feel chilly in historic buildings, so bringing light jackets or sweaters ensures comfort throughout your visit.

Many events offer both free and ticketed components. The Nutcracker requires advance tickets, while most local township festivals are completely free. Festival of Trees in Atlantic City operates on a sliding pricing scale, with weekday visits typically costing less than weekend admission.

Food options vary significantly between events. Township festivals usually feature local food trucks and concession stands, while venues like the Academy of Music offer upscale dining experiences. Planning your meal timing around event schedules helps avoid long lines and ensures you don't miss key moments like tree lighting ceremonies.

Final Thoughts

This weekend offers the perfect blend of local charm and seasonal magic that makes South Jersey special during the holidays. Whether you choose the intimate atmosphere of Delran's Winter Festival, the artistic elegance of Smithville Mansion's art show, or venture to Philadelphia for world-class ballet, you'll find experiences that create lasting memories.

The beauty of South Jersey's holiday season lies in its accessibility and variety. You can enjoy small-town festivals in the afternoon and sophisticated cultural experiences in the evening, all within a comfortable driving distance. These events reflect the community spirit and diverse offerings that make this region attractive to families year-round.

Whatever you choose this weekend, take a moment to appreciate the local volunteers, artists, and community organizations that make these celebrations possible. Their dedication creates the magic that transforms ordinary December weekends into cherished holiday memories.

FAQ

Q: Do I need tickets for any of the South Jersey events this weekend? A: Most local township events like the Delran Winter Festival, the Burlington Holiday Village, and the Medford Dickens Festival are completely free. Only The Nutcracker in Philadelphia and Festival of Trees in Atlantic City require advance tickets.

Q: What's the best time to arrive at these holiday events? A: For outdoor events, arriving 30 minutes before official start times ensures good parking and allows you to get oriented before crowds build. Tree lighting ceremonies typically happen around 6 PM, so plan accordingly.

Q: Are these events suitable for young children? A: Yes, all the South Jersey township events are designed with families in mind. They feature stroller-friendly layouts, kid-focused activities, and reasonable timeframes that work with children's schedules.

Q: What should I bring to outdoor holiday events? A: Layer clothing for changing temperatures, bring cash for vendors (many don't accept cards), pack hand warmers for evening events, and consider bringing folding chairs for parades or tree lighting ceremonies.

Q: How do I stay updated on event changes or cancellations? A: Follow township Facebook pages and websites for real-time updates. Weather-related changes are usually announced by Friday afternoon for weekend events.

Q: Can I combine multiple events in one day? A: Absolutely! Many families start with afternoon events like the Smithville art show, grab dinner, and then attend evening activities like tree lighting ceremonies. Most events are within 30 minutes of each other in South Jersey.