The days may be shorter and colder, but we've found 30 fun winter things to do that are sure to get you out of the house. Bundle up and explore NJ's top skiing and snowboarding spots, outdoor ice rinks, and more. Read on for our top winter trips, and be sure to check out our Family Activity Calendar and Winter Activities Guide for even more great ideas.

Holiday light displays shine brightly in New Jersey, and you can enjoy amazingly decked-out houses throughout the state. There are many different ways to see Christmas lights—from walk-through spectacles at amusement parks to over-the-top drive-thru displays and private homes. There are even entire towns that go all out with holiday light installations!

These sparkling holiday spectacles—some of which feature more than 1 million lights—are sure to impress even the grinchiest member of your family. So bundle up the kids and head out to one of these illuminating local light shows before the sun sets on the Christmas season!

Check out our roundup of New Jersey Christmas towns that go all out for the holidays, and find tons more ways to be merry in our Holiday Fun Guide.

With the holidays right around the corner, many nonprofits are gearing up to ensure that the 2022 holiday season is joyful for struggling families. If you need a little extra help this season, here is a list of organizations that are distributing free toys to kids in need. Note that deadlines are fast approaching, so be sure to reach out early if you need a little help this year. If you aren't struggling and want your family to start a tradition of giving back, reach out to one of these groups to see how you can donate free toys or offer other assistance.

For more ways to save money this holiday season, try giving homemade gifts that kids can make themselves, like bookmarks made from recycled holiday cards or salt dough handprint ornaments. And, our Christmas Activities and Hanukkah Guide includes lots of free ways to have fun with your family this holiday season.