The holiday spirit is in the air – and the perfect way to celebrate is by visiting the South Jersey towns that make it feel like you’ve stepped right into a Christmas village. Try these out!

Collingswood
Highlights: restaurant row decked out in holly and lights, drop your letter to Santa in front of Borough Hall, shop for local gifts like plants, soaps, South Jersey foods, art and more

Don’t miss: caroling every Friday and Saturday

Historic Smithville
Highlights: A carousel in the town center, footbridges, local eateries, cozy inns, a nightly holiday light show, plenty of shops

Don’t miss: each weekend, the village presents Magical Talking Tree, Christmas train rides, bonfire and s’mores

Cape May
Highlights: Victorian Era homes decked out in holiday decor and twinkling lights, breakfast with Santa, Dickens village exhibit at Carroll Gallery, window shopping down picturesque Washington Street Mall

Don’t miss: trolley rides with Mrs. Claus and the lamplighter Christmas walking tour

Haddonfield
Highlights: strolling down the lit-up Main Street with plenty of shops and restaurants, picturesque shop windows decorated special for the holiday season, Haddy the Hadrosaurus wearing his holiday best

Don’t miss: candlelight shopping with extended shopping hours every Friday night through Dec. 20

Historic Medford Village
Highlights: festive downtown with a Main St. perfect for strolling with a cup of hot cocoa, visit the Medford Arts Center, and delicious eateries like cozy Lakes Coffee (in a literal log cabin)

Don’t miss: third Thursday food truck night (Dec. 19, 5-9 pm)

Mt. Holly
Highlights: plenty of wreaths, historic buildings, a large Christmas tree decorated at Main & Mill Sts.

Don’t miss: Rancocas Valley High School Marching Band holiday market (Dec. 14)