This weekend, Jersey City rolls out a packed lineup of holiday events. The city’s creativity, community spirit, and love of local arts take center stage.
From a historic train terminal turned winter wonderland to handmade markets and live performances, there’s something for everyone. Residents and visitors will find plenty of ways to celebrate all over town.
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Winter Festival at the Historic CRRNJ Train Terminal
The Central Railroad of New Jersey (CRRNJ) Train Terminal at Liberty State Park is a gem. Once a key gateway for immigrants and travelers, it now hosts the annual Winter Festival.
The festival brings a classic mix of family-friendly entertainment and interactive activities. You’ll get scenic Hudson River views and the Manhattan skyline as a festive backdrop.
Expect plenty of festive décor and photo ops. The historic architecture adds extra magic to modern holiday fun.
Seasonal Fun for All Ages
Kids can dive into special activities just for them. Adults get to stroll the grounds, soaking in the atmosphere and history.
This setting really turns an ordinary weekend into a memorable holiday experience. There’s just something about celebrating in a place with so much local history.
UJAMAA Marketplace Holiday Fair: Shop Local, Shop Unique
If you love gifts with a story, the UJAMAA Marketplace Holiday Fair is for you. The event features independent vendors, artisans, and makers with goods you just won’t see at big-box stores.
Handcrafted jewelry, specialty foods, and culturally inspired crafts fill the space. The marketplace is as much about connecting with people as it is about shopping.
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Supporting small businesses here feels good. You’ll knock out your holiday list and maybe discover something you didn’t know you needed.
Community Holiday Performance at the Local Library
The local library steps into the spotlight this weekend with a Community Holiday Performance. Neighborhood talent gets a chance to shine in a family-friendly setting.
Friends, students, and local performers take the stage. It’s a reminder of how public spaces can bring people together, especially during the holidays.
Spotlighting Local Talent
You’ll hear music, spoken word, and seasonal pieces that highlight the city’s artistic range. The arts are alive in every corner, not just on big stages.
Downtown’s Happy Holiday Handmade Market
Downtown Jersey City buzzes with the Happy Holiday Handmade Market. If you’re after unique, non-mass-produced gifts, this is the spot.
Artists, crafters, and designers offer everything from textiles and prints to candles and ceramics. Wandering the market is an experience in itself—shopping is almost secondary.
The creativity here adds so much to downtown’s energy. Buying from these makers means you’re taking home something truly local, with a story behind it.
3rd Annual Handel’s Messiah Sing-Along
For music fans, the 3rd Annual Handel’s Messiah Sing-Along is quickly becoming a tradition. The event invites everyone to join in on one of classical music’s most famous works.
Whether you’re a seasoned chorister or just love belting out the “Hallelujah” chorus, you’ll find a sense of shared celebration. Professional guidance blends with community voices for a memorable experience.
The Kennedy Dancers 2025 Holiday Showcase
The Kennedy Dancers, a longtime fixture in Jersey City’s arts scene, present their 2025 Holiday Showcase this weekend. Expect polished choreography and dynamic staging from performers who clearly love what they do.
The showcase usually blends contemporary pieces with seasonal themes. It’s a visually engaging way to cap off a weekend full of cultural offerings.
The Kennedy Dancers have invested decades in local youth and emerging performers. Their holiday showcase shows how arts education and performance help shape the city’s identity over time.
Planning Your Jersey City Holiday Weekend
With so much happening, a bit of planning helps. Try grouping nearby events on the same day—maybe pair the Winter Festival with a waterfront walk, or the Handmade Market with dinner downtown.
If you’re visiting from out of town and checking out where to stay in Jersey City, this is a great weekend to book a room. Many Jersey City hotels offer easy access to downtown, Liberty State Park, and transit hubs, so getting around is a breeze.
Getting Here and Exploring the Neighborhoods
If you’re set on getting to Jersey City, you’ve got options. Take the PATH train, hop on a ferry, catch a bus, or just drive in from the New Jersey Turnpike or local highways.
Once you arrive, you’ll notice the city splits into distinct districts. The waterfront, Journal Square, and Bergen-Lafayette each bring their own vibe—think different food scenes, culture, and nightlife.
Curious about more things to do in Jersey City? There’s a steady lineup of galleries, parks, and neighborhood festivals all year.
If you want to keep up with what’s happening, maybe subscribe to Jersey City Times. They cover daily news, local arts, and whatever’s buzzing in the community—definitely helps you feel plugged in.
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Here is the source article for this story: This Weekend
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