The holidays are upon us and the city is ready to celebrate. Lots of events around the city for the family, shopping, arts and more. Even with the cold weather there's still lots to do - so get out and enjoy the festivities. Happy Holidays! ALL events are free unless posted. Times and location details can be found by following MORE DETAILS links for each event.

Tree Lightings & Santa



South Ward Tree Lighting: December 2

Meet at the corner of Chancellor & Elizabeth Ave for the tree lighting, followed by entertainment and refreshments at Weequahic Presbyterian Church. More details.

Military Park Holiday Celebration: December 6

Military Park

Tree Lighting, Free Carousel rides, holiday card making & crafts, performances and toy drive. More details.

Newark Downtown District Tree Lighting & Festivities: December 6

Championship Plaza @ Prudential Center

Free photos with Santa, Rudolph, Olaf & the Minions, games; Tree Lighting; Concert by Blu Cantrell and Sunshine Anderson; carnival games and more. More details.

Mt. Prospect Tree Lighting & Santa: December 8

Mt. Prospect Ave

Local residents are invited to a Tree lighting, free hot chocolate, DJ, music, dancing, face painting, children's activities and more. More details.

Photos with Santa Claus: December 10

North Ward Center

Have your photo taken with Santa and donate a gift for families in need.

Festivities Surrounded by Art & Music

Holidays at the Newark Museum: Sundays December 4, 11, 18

Newark Museum

Sundays during December visit the museum for musical performances by choirs, jazz singers and more (see schedule here). On December 11, is the museum's monthly Second Sundays with a holiday theme offering performances, children and teen tours and workshops, lectures, and much more (more details on Second Sundays).

8th Annual Potluck Holiday Party

Gallery Aferro

Closing reception for their current art exhibits, plus holiday party with food and performances by Newark Boys Chorus. More details.

Kwanzaa Festival: December 17

@ NJPAC

Celebrate the Nguzo Saba at NJPAC’s 18th annual Kwanzaa children’s festival and marketplace, featuring an Arts and Crafts Village and music and dance activities. More details.

Shopping & Market Places

Have You Met Newark Holiday Shop Hop: December 17

Various locations - starting at Harvest Table 550 Broad St

Find local, unique, one-of-a-kind gifts for family and friends on the Shop Hop! Starting at Harvest Table the group will weave through local businesses downtown ending with Gallery Aferro's Holiday Party (see above). $10 ticket gets $5 voucher to spend locally. More details and ticket link.

The Black Market: December 17

Rutgers-Newark Paul Robeson Center

The Black Market NJ– Holiday Edition is a curated indie marketplace event showcasing the work, wares and products of Black Owned Small Business owners. There is alos seminars, DIY for kids, speakers and even a fashion show. $5 admission. More details.