Kwanzaa Children’s Festival at NJPAC (Newark)
On Saturday starting at noon, the NJ Performing Arts Center offers a day of FREE general admission with tons of kid-friendly Kwanzaa activities including workshops, storytelling, African dance, Capoeria, and drumming.  Following the free activities are a series of fabulous Kwanzaa performances (2pm and 5pm) starting at $25. per ticket.

Winter Waterfowl Walk at Liberty State Park (Jersey City)
Bundle up Saturday from 10am-noon for a winter walk along the Liberty Walkway in search of birds including ducks, mergansers, grebes, buffleheads and more.  Bring binoculars if you have them, but if you don’t, don’t fret, there are a limited amount to share.  FREE but advance registration required by calling 201-915-3409.

Natural Holiday Ornaments at Washington Crossing State Park (Titusville)
Kids can mix pipe cleaners, glitter and glue with pine cones, berries, dried seeds, pods and other natural materials at this fun, nature-focused workshop. $3. Materials charge, and advance registration required by calling 609-737-0609.

The Christmas Express at Allaire State Park (Farmingdale)
Ride with Santa Claus on the historic trains of the NJ Museum of Transportation!  Santa chats with each and every little passenger.  Trains depart every half hour from 11am-4pm Saturday and Sunday; Special Christmas Express night Saturday the 19th 6pm-8:30pm. $5. per person.  Call in advance to check availability.  Advance tickets are recommended 732-938-5524.

Holiday Festival of Lights at Camden Children’s Garden (Camden)
Stroll through 4+ acres of Camden waterfront covered in 100,000 beautiful holiday lights and animated light sculptures. Then head to warmer climates for live butterflies; Santa Claus, his elves and Garden Mascot Mum Bear. Not warm enough yet? Enjoy Plaza de Aibonito, a heated Tropical Holiday exhibit, and learn about the Hispanic tradition of Three Kings Day.  Guests can ride the Carousel, Butterfly Spring Ride or the Arrow River Express Train Ride for an additional fee. 5:30pm-8pm $4./person.

Haven’t had your share of holiday bulbs?  Check out the Christmas Lights at Turtleback Zoo or Jenkinson’s Aquarium (the indoor light show is $6./person, is Saturday only, and includes free photos with Santa at the Sweet Shop; there’s also coloring contests happening and treats for purchase–check the site for more info; )

Remember to check out New Jersey holiday shows, and if you haven’t cut your Christmas tree yet, get out there!  Most farms have quotas and close when they’re met! Ready to hit the slopes? Our guide’ll get you going...fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-laaaaaaaaaaah....