From train rides with Santa to ice skating outdoors in a winter wonderland, there are plenty of ways to pack South Jersey fun into your weekend!
Tree Lighting Celebration
November 30
Spend the evening exploring ice sculpture demonstrations, an art show with creations made by Cape May County Zoo animals and a visit from Santa himself. Free treats and other family-friendly activities will also be available. The free event runs from 4:30 to 6 pm at Cape May County Park Central. For more information, visit capemaycountynj.gov.
Winterfest Grand Opening Weekend
November 30 – December 2
Cooper River Park will once again transform into a winter wonderland this weekend. This year, Winterfest will include family fun activities like ice skating, outdoor games off the ice and indoor games in a heated tent. The grand opening kicks off Friday night at 6:30 pm with a tree lighting ceremony. For more information and a full schedule of events, visit camdencounty.com/service/parks/winterfest-ice-skating-cooper-river/.
Holiday House
November 30 – December 2
Tour a decked-out Barclay Farmstead portraying the theme “Barclay Collections Unveiled.” Light refreshments and gift items for purchase will be available as well as wine tasting on Friday from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. The house will be open from noon to 9 pm on Friday, noon to 5 pm on Saturday and noon to 4 pm on Sunday. A donation of $5 is suggested. For more information, visit cherryhill-nj.com.
Patco Santa’ s Silver Sleigh
December 1
Children and adults alike will enjoy train rides with Santa on Saturday, December 1. Specially decorated PATCO trains will make three trips, leaving the Lindenwold station at 9:05 a.m., 10:35 a.m. and 12:05 p.m. and picking up passengers at all stops along the way to Philadelphia. After enjoying their ride with Santa and his elves, complete with seasonal music, Santa’s Sleigh passengers can shop at Christmas Village in Love Park, check out the light show and “Christmas Carol” display at Macy’s or strap on their ice skates at the Rothman Rink at City Hall, among many other family-friendly activities. For more special depart time, visit ridepatco.org/silversleigh/.
Empty Bowls Fundraiser
December 1
Perkins Center for the Arts in Collingswood is hosting its 8th annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser from noon to 3 pm. Proceeds will be divided evenly between the Food Bank of South Jersey and the Perkins Center Scholarship fund. Empty Bowls is an international program that engages participating artists to create and donate handmade bowls in which a meal is served to a gathering of caring community patrons. In exchange for the meal (and the handmade bowl), guests contribute a minimum donation of $15.00. For more information, visit perkinscenter.org.
