There’s something about Jersey in winter that slows the pace just enough to notice the glow in the windows, the bundled-up couples sharing sidewalks, and the first signs of festivities flickering across the city. If you’re staying close to home this year, consider it a gift in itself. You don’t need to travel far—or at all—to find wonder.
For those living in a Downtown Jersey City apartment, the season is happening right outside your door. From light displays and local markets to candlelight concerts and celebratory dinners, this is your guide to celebrating the holidays right here.
December Events Near One Ten
Before you dive into your calendar of celebrations, make sure you’re dressed for it, because Jersey in winter brings its own mood. While snow isn't constant, chilly days and crisp evenings are the norm, with temperatures averaging in the high 30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit. In other words: it's classic layering season. Think wool coats, cozy scarves, and gloves you won’t regret bringing. You’ll want to be comfortable as you walk from market to concert to rooftop brunch, because the best holiday events aren’t indoors-only.
Here’s what’s happening, when, and how close it is to home:
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December 2, 2025 – Tree Lighting & Menorah Ceremony
Where? Newark Avenue, Pedestrian Mall (within a 27-min walk or bus ride)
Start the season with one of the most cherished Jersey City holiday events. HDSID’s annual Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting brings neighbors together under the Grove Christmas lights, with gifts from Santa, free cookies and hot chocolate, and that unmistakable small-town energy that downtown does so well. If you’re wondering what time is the tree lighting at, it begins at about 5:30 PM, but make sure you get there early for the full flow.
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December 6, 2025 – Heights Holiday Market
Where? Riverview-Fisk Park (within a 29-min walk or bus ride)
For one day only, Riverview-Fisk Park transforms into a festive winter village. Over 150 vendors will set up shop alongside food stalls, live music, a bounce house, and seasonal drinks—like Busy Bee Organics' signature S’mores Hot Cocoa. It’s one of the most anticipated holiday events in NJ, and a standout Jersey City holiday market just under half an hour from One Ten.
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December 13–14 & 20–21, 2025 – Happy Holiday Market
Where? Grove Street PATH Plaza + Ashford Rooftop (within a 21-min walk or ride)
Back-to-back weekends of winter shopping await at this hybrid market experience. Outdoors, the Grove PATH Plaza buzzes with bounce houses, DJs, and handmade goods. Indoors, the Ashford Rooftop hosts a cozy, curated shopping experience with local art, holiday drinks, and brunch. Running 11 AM to 6 PM each day, it’s one of the most complete December events in the city, and easily one of the most joyful holiday things to do in New Jersey.
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December 15 & every Sunday in December – Hoboken Holiday Market Series
Where? 770 Jackson Street Plaza (within a 30-min walk or PATH ride)
Looking for even more local gifting inspiration? Head across the river to Hoboken, where the Holiday Market Series brings seasonal cheer to the plaza at 770 Jackson Street. This festive indoor/outdoor pop-up includes local makers, delicious seasonal bites, and that “just right” kind of holiday buzz that makes Sunday afternoons worth savoring.
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Throughout December – Candlelight Concert Series
Where? White Eagle Hall (within a 23-min walk or bus ride)
If your version of holiday magic includes string quartets and flickering candlelight, White Eagle Hall delivers. Throughout December, the venue hosts intimate performances under glowing lights, with tributes to Queen, Coldplay, Vivaldi, and more. The acoustics are stunning, the space is historic, and as far as Jersey City holiday events go, this one brings true winter romance.
Where? 655 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick (41 minutes by car)
Ready for a bit of a road trip? Make the 40-minute drive to East Brunswick for Winter WonderLights, New Jersey’s largest animated holiday light show. Over 1.5 million lights dazzle across massive installations, character tunnels, and synchronized music. It’s a drive-thru experience, open nightly, and well worth the ride for those craving full-blown spectacle.
Celebrate Without the Dishes
If a kitchen-free holiday sounds like heaven on earth, there are plenty of restaurants nearby open on Christmas Day—and a few extra-cozy options if you’re celebrating another night with friends or family.
Restaurants open on Christmas Day (all within 30 mins):
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Fire & Oak – Classic American with a polished, seasonal menu.
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Battello – Waterfront fine dining with holiday specials.
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The Hutton – A relaxed local favorite with a hearty winter fare.
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Cangiano’s Marketplace – Italian comfort food and prepared meals.
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Jane Doe – Intimate and modern, with a festive cocktail list.
Igloo dining (within an hour via public transit):
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Castell Rooftop Lounge – NYC skyline views and heated domes
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City Vineyard – Cozy wine-paired meals with riverfront seating
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Curling Café & Bar – For the competitive crowd: rent a lane, then dine in your own private igloo
Whether it’s a full meal or a shared drink, joining holiday events in NJ doesn’t have to take you far from home. And if you’re walking, take the long way—you’ll catch extra lights that way.
Celebrating at Home: The One Ten Way
Some of the best memories are made at home, and if you’re hosting this year, Jersey City makes it easy to keep things festive and local.
Where to Buy a Tree or Décor
When it comes to decking the halls, Jersey City keeps it local. You'll find tree stands and seasonal pop-ups scattered throughout the Heights, around Hamilton Park, and near Journal Square—just follow the scent of pine and the glow of string lights. For everything else, Kanibal & Co. and Love Locked carry thoughtfully curated holiday décor, from handmade ornaments to brass candlesticks and warm-toned tableware that actually feels personal. It’s an easy way to elevate your space without diving into mass-produced sparkle.
Ideas for Holiday Hosting at One Ten
Hosting at home? Start with a theme. Whether you lean towards forest green and brass, classic plaid, or minimalist whites layered with natural textures, each one pairs beautifully with candlelight and clean serveware. The pièce de résistance? Make a wine-and-cheese night in your chef-style kitchen or set up a hot cocoa bar on your balcony.
And if you love the idea of hosting but need a little more elbow room, One Ten has you covered—our private dining spaces can be reserved for intimate dinners, brunches, or low-key gatherings that feel both elevated and effortless. Holiday magic doesn’t require a huge guest list, just the right space and the right people.
Don’t Forget What It’s All About…
The lights are beautiful. The events are exciting. But the reason we show up, the reason we decorate and cook and walk through the cold with gloved hands and warm hearts is each other. This season, take time to be present. To give where you can. To invite people in.
From all of us at One Ten: Happy Holidays, and thank you for being part of our community.
We hope your celebrations feel warm, light-filled, and entirely your own.
And if you’re still on the quest of finding a place in Jersey City, our luxury apartments for rent are ready for you. Give us a call and let’s schedule your tour!