It’s no secret that holiday magic is already casting its spell on the streets of Morristown. Dazzling lights and decor are adorning the Morristown Green, restaurants and bars are sprucing up their menus to include seasonal favorites and local businesses are preparing for an influx of holiday shoppers. But aside from our town transforming into a true winter wonderland, there is a long list of celebratory events and activities taking place this holiday season — and you definitely don’t want to Ms. Out.
Whether you’re a resident looking for new traditions or a visitor eager to experience the allure of Morristown, there are plenty of ways to embrace the joyous atmosphere that defines the season. That’s why we’ve rounded up 12 ways to get your dose of holiday spirit. From attending lighting ceremonies and catching a holiday show to participating in a Grinch-themed bar crawl and exploring Christmas pop-ups, here are all the ways to celebrate the season in Morristown.
Enjoy Santa’s Secret Sips at Iron Bar
Throughout December, Iron Bar will be offering a one-of-a-kind cocktail experience. Santa’s Secret Sips isn’t just your average holiday pop-up — you’ll get to enjoy over-the-top holiday decor, cutting-edge technology and festive cocktails shaken up by @chickologist. Reserve your spot now for the merriest experience in town.
Take A Trip To The North Pole at Jockey Hollow
The Jockey Hollow elves have successfully pulled off “Operation Christmas Has Thrown Up,” a master plan devised to transform the establishment’s Vail Bar into the North Pole. There will be cheerful decor, colorful cocktails and fun for all! Make your reservations today or pop into the winter wonderland that is the Vail Bar.
Celebrate The Season At Stirling Tavern
If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy a hearty meal or grab a festive cocktail, Stirling Tavern is the place to be during the holidays. With cheerful decor hanging from the ceilings and a brand-new holiday cocktail (and mocktail) menu, you’ll want to belly up to the bar and order winter concoctions like Miracle on South Street, Deck The Highballs or A Very Shiny Nose. And don’t forget to order some delicious bar snacks, appetizers or meals to warm your heart and soul.
Go Christmas Tree Shopping
There’s nothing quite like picking the perfect Christmas Tree to decorate, showcase and admire in your home — and from now until December 24th you can explore a forest of options at Hillside Hose Co. Every year the Volunteer Fire Department holds a Christmas Tree fundraiser that offers a great selection of trees, wreaths and garlands. The proceeds will help fund academic scholarships, sponsor youth athletic teams, provide gifts for children and more. Click here for more details.
Shop Holiday Gifts With The Magnusson Group
Hoping to get some holiday shopping done? Head over to the holiday pop-up shop at The Magnusson Group, open Monday-Saturday until December 22. You’ll get to shop and explore designer furniture, fashion and unique gifts from top brands like Ralph Lauren, Jonathan Adler, Prada, Gucci, Tory Burch and much more. There’s something for everyone on your holiday shopping list. Click here for additional details.
Get Tickets To A Delightful Holiday Show at MPAC
There is no shortage of merriment and entertainment at the Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) this holiday season. Celebrate with a wide variety of holiday shows and traditions like the New Jersey Ballet’s The Nutcracker with the New Jersey Symphony, which will be taking place December 15 – December 27. You can also witness Il Divo: A New Holiday Tour on December 6th, The Irish Tenors on December 9th and so much more. Purchase your tickets today!
Visit Santa at the Morristown Green
It’s official! Santa has arrived in Morristown. If you’re looking for an enchanting atmosphere filled with light displays, ice sculpture demonstrations, rides on a miniature train and more, look no further than the Morristown Green. From now until December 17th, Santa visits and photos will take place every Saturday and Sunday on the Green from noon until 7:00 pm and on Fridays from 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Activities are free to visitors, with the exception of a $15 fee for a photo with Santa. You won’t want to miss out on all the holiday cheer! Click here for more details.
Attend the Menorah Lighting Ceremony
The Rabbinical College of America and its affiliate, Chabad of Morristown, will light a 14-foot Menorah on the Morristown Green on the first night of Hanukkah, December 7th at 5:30 pm. An additional Menorah lighting will be held on December 13th to celebrate Hanukkah. The lighting will occur on the Morristown Green from 5 pm to 6 pm. Afterward, everyone is invited to join the Jewish Community as they enjoy live music, doughnuts, hot drinks, prizes and gelt as they celebrate the holiday.
Participate in a Holiday Bar Crawl
Get ready to paint the town green with this year’s GrinchCon, a Morristown bar crawl taking place on December 9th from 12 pm to 6 pm. Dress up in your favorite Grinch costume or holiday ensemble and celebrate Christmas in style at local bars like Homestead Bar & Kitchen, Iron Bar, Horseshoe Tavern and FOMO. There will also be thrilling contests and epic raffles all day long. Secure your tickets today!
Shop Local At The Winter Farmer’s Market
Presented by Grow It Green Morristown, The Winter Farmer’s Market will be held every Sunday from now until April, 9:30 am to 1 pm, at the Convent Train Station Parking Lot. Explore a variety of local small businesses and vendors selling winter goodies, including honey, artisanal cheese, baked goods, prepared foods and even holiday gifts. Shop local and support your community this winter!
View The Dazzling Decor at the Festival Of The Trees
On Fridays and Saturdays throughout December, The Frelinghuysen Arboretum’s mansion will showcase Christmas trees decorated by scouts, families, floral designers, and garden clubs. Admission to this festive, family-friendly outing is $10 per person. Click here for additional details.
Experience A Jolly Old Christmas
Step back in time and experience an afternoon of holiday cheer at Historic Speedwell! On December 16th and 17th, enjoy an open-hearth cooking demonstration with sweet treats and hot mulled cider to sample from 12 pm – 2 pm. Then, visit Santa from 2 pm – 4 pm at the historic Vail House decked out in holiday decor. Finally, enjoy line dancing, crafts and home tours which will take place throughout the afternoon. Click here for additional details.
From radiant light displays to heartwarming community events, Morristown offers many festive ways to get your holiday fix and boost your spirit. So, bundle up, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and head to any of these enchanting holiday attractions that Morristown has to offer.