Experience the most magical time of the year in Atlantic City, NJ! From festive events and non-stop entertainment to family-friendly adventures and holiday pop-ups, Atlantic City is the ultimate destination for your seasonal getaway. Here’s your guide to making the most of every holiday celebration along the shore.
On Thursday, December 4, experience the thrill as celebrity pros from Dancing with the Stars join finalists from American Idol, The Voice, and So You Think You Can Dance. This high-energy holiday spectacular will have you clapping, cheering, and dancing along.
Atlantic City Ballet
Catch two enchanting performances at Caesars Atlantic City by the Atlantic City Ballet this holiday season. It’s A Shore Holiday on December 4 brings chipmunks, cheerful snowmen, and dazzling choreography for an entertaining family-fun night. On December 14, The Nutcracker sweeps you on a magical journey through the Kingdom of Snow and the Land of Sweets with unforgettable music and holiday elegance.
Human Nature Christmas, Motown & More!
Celebrate the season with Human Nature: Christmas, Motown & More! on Saturday, December 6 at 9:00 p.m. at Golden Nugget Atlantic City. Australian pop sensations Human Nature will deliver a festive concert full of holiday classics and Motown hits. Expect dazzling harmonies, lively choreography, and a night of pure nostalgia.
2025 Noyes Holiday Market & Gingerbread Village
Experience the sweetest holiday market at the Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University on December 6 and 7. This free two-day event features local vendors, craft activities, seasonal food and beverages, festive photo opportunities with Santa, and the iconic Gingerbread Village Contest. Marvel at the incredible gingerbread creations that grow more imaginative and elaborate each year!
Atlantic City Holiday Parade and Market
Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 13 at 4:30 p.m. as Atlantic City’s Holiday Parade takes to a new route along Atlantic Avenue from South Carolina Avenue to Albany Avenue, starting at City Hall! This beloved event features sparkling floats, marching bands, and lively performances. After the parade, continue the festive fun at the brand-new Holiday Market at O’Donnell Memorial Park!
Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
Experience the magic of the season as Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland comes to Ocean Casino Resort on December 14 at 4:00 p.m. This all-new production blends world-class circus artistry with holiday music, creating a breathtaking winter wonderland that will wow the entire family.
Candlelight at Resorts Casino Hotel
Let every note and melody light up your holiday spirit at the Candlelight shows at Resorts Casino Hotel. On Friday, December 19, Christmas Carols on Strings brings classic favorites to life while Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and More offers a candlelit escape that is as elegant as it is unforgettable.
Family-Friendly Experiences
Santa’s Hideaway Adventure
Now open through December 24, this one-of-a-kind experience takes you from the iconic Boardwalk to the North Pole to Santa’s Secret Hideaway. Ride the magical elevator, snap festive photos, and shop for holiday treats and merchandise.
Pro tip: Book an overnight stay in one of Ocean’s holiday themed rooms for the ultimate festive experience!
Smithville Village
Just a short drive from Atlantic City, Historic Smithville Village transforms into a real-life Hallmark holiday movie. The cobblestone paths and charming shops are illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights, creating the perfect setting for a festive outing. Catch the Light Show on Lake Meone, where over 120 trees dance to your favorite holiday tunes reflected across the water. Hop aboard the Smithville Train for a whimsical ride through the village, and don’t miss a visit to the Magic Talking Christmas Tree that delights kids and adults alike with cheerful conversations. Warm up by the fire with S’mores on the Greene, then explore over 60 locally owned shops filled with unique gifts, handmade crafts, and festive décor. Special events like Hospitality Night and Girls Night Out add even more excitement to the season, making Smithville the ultimate stop for holiday charm, shopping, and cozy town feels.
Renault Winery & Resort
Sip, skate, and celebrate at Renault Winery & Resort’s Vintner Wonderland! The celebration begins with the Wine Barrel Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 5. Families can take photos with Santa, glide across the scenic ice rink, and explore the Holiday Artisan Market. Admission is free, with plenty of opportunities to make memories throughout the season. Enjoy themed events like Stories with Santa, Frosted Family Fun: Gingerbread Decorating, Chef’s Masterclass: The Art of Holiday Hors d-Oeuvres, and so much more!
Holiday Pop Ups + Seasonal Sips and Eats
Bar 32 Chocolate
Decked out in holiday décor, Bar 32 will be serving their iconic chocolate martinis, holiday-inspired cocktails and mocktails, decadent desserts, and signature chocolate bars perfect for gift-giving!
From ceiling to floor, this holiday lounge at Resorts Casino Hotel is pure magic. Savor seasonal sips, dance the night away to holiday hits, enjoy weekly live entertainment, and toast to the season with friends and family.
Jingle Bell Bar at Ocean Casino Resort
Now through January 5, the Jingle Bell Bar brings festive cheer and perfect photo opportunities to 1927 Lounge. Sip holiday themed cocktails, snap selfies in holiday décor, and dance to lively tunes in this vibrant pop-up experience.
The Irish Pub Christmas Spectacular
Thousands of sparkling lights, towering Christmas trees, and festive décor transform the Irish Pub Atlantic City into a holiday spectacular. Enjoy Irish cuisine, holiday drink specials, and the world-famous Irish Coffee while soaking up iconic holiday vibes at this local gem.
This holiday season, Atlantic City is shining brighter than ever with iconic experiences festive celebrations. From annual events and dazzling shows to holiday markets and cheers-worthy treats, the city is brimming with holiday spirit for all to enjoy. Book your holiday getaway or gift the Atlantic City experience today!
