Family Activities on Christmas in New Jersey

After the presents are opened and the holiday meal enjoyed, what can you and your family do together to celebrate Christmas in New Jersey? Here's a look at some activities and attractions you can take part in together:

Take a walk through Adventure Aquarium in Camden to witness magnificent species of sea creatures. Online reservations are required.

Lace up your sneakers for a leisurely Christmas Day stroll on Asbury Park Beach and Boardwalk.  Asbury Park features a large, lit-up Christmas tree in Convention Hall and a playground on the beach. 

Head to Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania, to witness a historic living history presentation of Gen. George Washington crossing the Delaware River. The ceremony begins at noon, but arrive early, as large crowds are expected. Tickets are required. 

Here's something to get the kids off the couch and engaging in VR fun. Sandbox VR in Paramus and Woodbridge offers a virtual reality experience with game themes such as Stranger Things, Squid Games, pirates, and more. The experience takes about an hour, and two to six people can play at once.

Discover one of the holiday light shows happening on Christmas Day. Visit Smithville for a free holiday light show on the water.

Enjoy a delightful Christmas Day brunch at Sofia in Englewood. The brunch runs from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations are requested.

If you didn't remember to include batteries with the toys or you're having a drop-in guest and don't have a present wrapped, the following retailers will be open on Christmas Day for last-minute needs but with limited hours:

Major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Costco are closed on Christmas Day and typically reopen the following day.

Some Acme locations may open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Select Foodtown locations also may be open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The following retailers are generally closed on Christmas: