Holiday magic will light up the streets of Allendale, Ho-Ho-Kus, Upper Saddle River and Saddle River this year. Residents and visitors can enjoy tradition, cheer and community warmth—here’s a guide to the season’s most festive happenings.
Allendale’s Winter Warmth
Downtown Allendale will soon shine with its beloved Holiday Walk and Tree Lighting. Families gather along West Allendale Avenue to sip cocoa, listen to carolers and count down to the lighting of the town tree. Santa makes an appearance for photos, while local shops open their doors with festive treats. Stay tuned for the official 2025 date and time from the borough. For a quieter holiday moment, the Celery Farm Natural Area offers snow-kissed trails perfect for a reflective winter walk.
Ho-Ho-Kus’ Classic Cheer
Ho-Ho-Kus kicks off the season with its Holiday Lighting Event at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, complete with carols, cocoa and Santa on the borough green. The town’s historic centerpiece, the Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern, is also a favorite holiday stop. Decked with garland and glowing lights, the landmark offers a cozy fireside dining experience and a seasonal menu that makes every gathering feel special.
Upper Saddle River’s Family Traditions
Upper Saddle River families look forward each year to the borough’s Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting at Borough Hall. Expect student choirs, festive performances and plenty of photo opportunities with Santa. While the 2025 date has not yet been released, the borough typically posts details in November. The Upper Saddle River Library also adds to the holiday cheer with ornament-making workshops and family craft nights.
Saddle River’s Old-Fashioned Magic
Mark your calendar: Saddle River has confirmed its Tree and Menorah Lighting for 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, 2025. Residents will gather for a night of music, lights and seasonal joy. The town also offers classic horse-drawn carriage rides and festive programming through the Saddle River Valley Cultural Center, where holiday concerts and children’s shows bring the community together. A drive through the neighborhood’s decorated estates is another local tradition, turning quiet streets into a winter wonderland.
Beyond the Boroughs: Nearby Lights and Rides
A short drive to Hillsdale brings visitors to the Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms, running Nov. 22 through Dec. 30, 2025. Guests can enjoy a guided light-show tour through 32 acres of displays, cozy up by fire pits, meet Santa and warm up with hot cocoa.
A Shared Season of Community
From small-town tree lightings to carriage rides and cozy tavern dinners, these Bergen County communities share one common theme: celebrating together. Whether you’re watching the Ho-Ho-Kus tree sparkle, snapping a family photo in Saddle River, or attending Allendale’s big night, the season promises plenty of moments to make spirits bright.
Editor’s note: Event details are subject to change. Please verify dates, times and locations with the host organization’s official website or social media before attending.