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“You can tell a lot about a person by the way they handle three things: a rainy day, lost luggage and tangled Christmas tree lights.” –Maya Angelou

Ready or not, here it comes! The Holiday Season is upon us. This special two-week Wanderings edition aims to bridge the gap between Thanksgiving and Santa's first appearances, with Small Business Saturday in between. Oh wait - our first Santa visit will be on Black Friday already, at Blairstown’s Jingle Eve! Don’t worry, there will be many more opportunities to see the big guy, and even have breakfast with him, in the coming weeks.

Each of our downtown centers has special events, including tree lightings, to encourage you to shop small and local this season.

For those interested in handcrafted treasures - whether creating something yourself, or seeking crafty gifts made by others - Warren County has you covered! The weekend of December 7-8 is especially festive.

Centenary Stage Company’s Holiday Family Spectacular, A Christmas Carol, runs Nov. 29-Dec. 14, and two lucky Wanderings subscribers – Joanne B. of Voorhees and MaryAnn S. of Kempton, PA - won tickets by entering a previous drawing. Enjoy the show!

We know, it would be nice to enjoy a peaceful Thanksgiving before launching headlong into Christmas, but that’s the way it goes. So if you find yourself getting frustrated with that lost luggage and tangled light strings, scroll through this issue for some holiday cheer!

Happy Thanksgiving, and Happy Wanderings!

ThanksChristmas: November 27 - December 12

Coming Up: 

Jolly Junker Christmas Decor Rummage Sale @ Alpha Firehouse

Get ready, holiday bargain hunters and decor lovers! This Black Friday, skip the crowded department stores and head out to Alpha Firehouse for the Jolly Junker Christmas Decor Rummage Sale! Whether you’re looking to transform your home into a winter wonderland or snag unique vintage pieces to gift or display, the Jolly Junker sale features gently-loved and fabulously festive indoor and outdoor holiday items. Reduce, reuse, recycle!

A Christmas Carol, The Musical - CSC Family Holiday Spectacular

Centenary Stage Company rings in the Holiday Season with lavish and thrilling adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic A Christmas Carol from Broadway heavy hitters Alan Menken and Lynn Ahrens. Performances run through December 12 in the Sitnik Theatre of the Lackland Performing Arts Center.

Jingle Eve in Blairstown

Take part in this growing town tradition of locally sponsored tree lighting while enjoying hot cocoa, Christmas carols, visits from Santa and not to forget the light parade!

The Cellar Dwellers Band @ Roy's Hall

The Cellar Dwellars Band delivers powerhouse riffs with their eclectic style and an impressive skill set, weaving their own innovative sound into the classics. Hailing from the Skylands of Northwestern NJ, this multi-talented rock band will be throwing down hits from the '60s to the '90s spanning across several genres.

Jingle on Main in Blairstown

 A festive Small Business Saturday event featuring over 50 local vendors, food and music, presented by the Blairstown Enhancement Committee and held throughout Blairstown's Historic Main Street.

Dried Flower Christmas Tree with Lights @ Well-Sweep Herb Farm

Create a beautiful 12” miniature Christmas tree with tiny lights and flowers to decorate your table for the upcoming holiday. Start with an artificial pine tree and cover it with a string of lights, adding accents of dried flowers grown at Well-Sweep. Reservations required.

Santa Train at Phillipsburg Railroad Historians

This annual Santa Train will be the last open house of the 2024 season, so come out to the Railroad Historians before everyting is tucked away for the winter - and remember to take in the museum while meeting with Santa!  This event is free but donations are appreciated.

Breakfast with Santa @ Mainline Catering & Events

Enjoy a delicious spread featuring any breakfast item you could possibly want! Pricing: $18.95/adult;  $11.95/child under 12; free for kids under age two. Price does not include tax & gratuity, but DOES include a professional 4x6 picture with Santa! Reservations suggested: 908-454-0011.

Shippen Victorian Candlelight Tours

Sunday, December 8, 2024

For those interested in a (free) special holiday candlelit tour of the Manor's main rooms in December, there are still a few spots left (guided tours are 11am, 12pm & 1pm and by reservation only). Family-friendly and kids are always welcome. Please email Gina to reserve a spot: grosseland@co.warren.nj.us.

Alternatively, walk-ins are welcome between 2-4pm to view the holiday decorations.

Jazz at Rutherfurd Hall Fall Series presents “Cubano Be, Cubano Bop”

Featuring the pre-eminent Jazz harmonica and vibraphonist, Hendrik Meurkens will perform with his quartet, plus a free showing of the PBS documentary written and directed by Jim Burns, looking at the remarkable life and music of four-time Oscar-winning songwriter Jimmy Van Heusen, one of the most accomplished songwriters in history.

Phillipsburg Tree Lighting and Santa Visit

Phillipsburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Phillipsburg hosts the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in Shappell Park in downtown Phillipsburg! Children and their families will have the opportunity to see and take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. 

Storytime with the Sugar Plum Fairy @ Northeast Branch

Enjoy a live performance by the Sugar Plum Fairy and her friend, the Dew Drop Fairy, from the New Jersey Civic Youth Ballet. This program is appropriate for children ages 4+. Space is limited. Please register everyone attending, including adults.

Evergreen Christmas Wreath @ Well- Sweep

Tuesday, December 10, 2024 - 6:30pm

A Well-Sweep favorite this time of year, create your own beautiful fresh evergreen 16″ wreath using various types of pine and holly, decorative pine cones and a colorful bow.

Guided Tours of Rutherfurd Hall

Step into the elegance of a bygone era with guided tours of Rutherfurd Hall, one of New Jersey’s architectural treasures. Nestled on the scenic shores of Allamuchy Pond and Allamuchy Mountain State Park, this historic mansion was once the grand estate of the Rutherfurd family, offering a unique glimpse into the Gilded Age. Space is limited. Reserve your spot by contacting Joan Salvas at jsalvas@aes.k12.nj.us.

Merry Green Up Weekend at Flowerland Growers

Create your very own Christmas centerpiece, arrangement, mantelpiece or wreath with Flowerland's friendly assistance and wares! You may bring your own container or choose from their selection. Reservations required.

Third Annual Belvidere Holiday Shopping Trail

Don't miss out on a festive shopping experience throughout Belvidere! Map sponsored by the Neighborhood Preservation Program, this special event is the perfect chance to support local businesses while enjoying holiday cheer. Pick up your map and visit participating local businesses for a chance to win prizes, get exclusive holiday discounts, enjoy some treats, find unique holiday gifts, and more. Bring your family, bring your friends, and get into the spirit by shopping local this season!

Christmas Centerpiece Workshops @ Tranquillity Farms

Friday, December 13, 2024 -
6:00pm to 8:00pm
Saturday, December 14, 2024 -
2:00pm to 4:00pm
Saturday, December 21, 2024 -
2:00pm to 4:00pm

Your perfect holiday table decoration! Create a beautiful Christmas centerpiece using fresh greens and seasonal decor in this festive, hands-on workshop!

Breakfast with Santa @ Architects Golf Club

Sunday, December 15, 2024 -
9:00am to 12:00pm

Ol' Saint Nick will be posing for photos with boys and girls and listening to their Christmas wish lists! Limited seating is available; you are encouraged to make reservations as early as possible.

15th Annual Crafts in the Warren Tech

More than 125 of the area's finest crafters and artisans come together for this one-day juried event to display their unique handmade items. The event features door prizes, lunch options, bake sales, and more for a fun-filled holiday shopping experience.

47th Annual Hope Christmas Craft Market

Sunday, December 8, 2024 -
10:00am to 4:00pm

The 47th anniversary of this wonderful town-wide holiday tradition spans two days, with seven buildings full of holiday cheer to explore. Santa will be available in the Community Center for that special holiday photo. Small entrance fee to enter all buildings both days, including complimentary shuttle service to get around town. Be sure to pop in the local stores, too!

Holiday Photos at the Asbury Mill

For a $50 contribution to the MWA, sign up online for a time slot to have a special holiday picture taken by a pro photographer in the beautiful Historic Asbury Mill. There will be two shots set up, one for family photos and one for photos with Santa. Pets welcome!

Holiday Wine Cocktails

Sunday, December 8, 2024 -
11:00am to 5:00pm

Bring your friends to this cocktail party, where you will learn how to make cocktails made of wine and other ingredients to create lower-alcohol drinks. $15 includes: tasting of 7 wines, one full cocktail to enjoy (choose from a selection of three), recipes for VMV wine cocktails. Also, check out Villa Milagro's wine sale running for the entire month of December!

Holiday Yule at Roseberry House

The Phillipsburg Area Historical Society invites you to celebrate Roseberry Yule 2024! Carolers, roaring fire, snacks, historical speaker, house tour. Family friendly and free to the public.

Lonesome Found @ Buttzville Brewing Co.

Saturday, December 7, 2024 - 6:00pm

Lonesome Found can often be found playing around the Poconos, bringing their unique sound to other breweries and bars. Playing a mix of rock, folk, country, and pop, we're excited to have these musicians in the brewery!

2nd Annual Wassail Tour in Belvidere

Saturday, December 7, 2024 -
7:00pm to 10:00pm

Tour through six historic homes and the Warren County Historical Society building. This event is sponsored by the Belvidere Tree Lighting Committee and trolley transportation will be available.

Paint N' Sip @ Chef's Catering

Sunday, December 8, 2024 -
11:00am to 2:00pm

Jen Starr, artist with Paint Fusion, will walk you through a step by step workshop making a limited edition wooden winter porch sign. You get to choose the design. Reserve your spot by calling 908- 496-4110.

Barefoot Grape Stomping @ Four Sisters

Sunday, December 8, 2024 -
1:00pm to 4:00pm
Saturday, December 21, 2024 -
1:00pm to 4:00pm

Indulge in a memorable afternoon filled with wine, food, and the fun of barefoot grape stomping at Four Sisters Winery! Cost is $51.58/person + tax, which includes a formal wine tasting, dinner with dessert, and souvenir wine glass. Tickets are required and may be purchased by calling 908-475-3671.

An Evening of Charlie Brown Jazz

Wednesday, December 11, 2024 -
6:30pm to 7:30pm

Always a great show! Get in the festive spirit of the season as the Eric Mintel Quartet performs selections from "A Charlie Brown Christmas" as well as original compositions and holiday jazz standards. Please register online to attend.

All Star Comedy Night @ Belvidere Manor

Thursday, December 12, 2024 - 8:00pm

Enjoy a night of laughs with comedians Jeff Norris and Kevin Israel. Doors open at 7pm with light complimentary buffet and cash bar.

Decorated Chrismtas trees at Rossi Auto Group

15th Annual Festival of Trees @ Rossi Auto Group

Thursday, December 12, 2024 -
5:30pm to 8:30pm

Guests will be welcomed by the sounds of holiday music, the warmth of Christmas cheer, and of course, Christmas trees as far as the eye can see! The evening includes a performance of holiday musical classics by the Abilities’ Rockstars, a visit from Santa, voting on beautifully decorated trees, and food and refreshments.

Family Story Time and Craft hosted by Belvidere Books

Saturday, December 14, 2024 - 10:00am

Belvidere Books - a new online business that plans to be an in-town presence in 2025 - invites the community to a pop-up event at the Community Center at Belvidere. The event includes story time reading of "Snowmen at Night" followed by crafts and baked goods provided by Talia's Bakery. Free, but to participate in the craft and snack, you must RSVP by Dec. 10 to belviderebooks@gmail.com.

 
Continuing: 

Holiday Market in Shappell Park

Sunday, December 8, 2024 - 10:00am
Sunday, December 15, 2024 - 10:00am
Sunday, December 22, 2024 - 10:00am

Shop Phillipsburg's Holiday Market featuring Phillipsburg Farmers Market Food & Craft vendors, plus local shops!

4th Annual Fair Trade Holiday Market @ Kathy's Kove

Extravaganza Opening Saturday, Nov. 9 at Kathy's Kove & Kafe for their 4th Annual Fair Trade Galley Holiday event, Wednesday-Sunday, through December. Stop by for some shopping, refreshments and know your purchases go to support fair trade and Ghana 4E, a computer learning center in Omanjor, Ghana – Africa.

4th Annual Fair Trade Holiday Market @ Kathy's Kove

Wednesday, December 11, 2024 to Sunday, December 15, 2024
Wednesday, December 18, 2024 to Sunday, December 22, 2024

Extravaganza Opening Saturday, Nov. 9 at Kathy's Kove & Kafe for their 4th Annual Fair Trade Galley Holiday event, Wednesday-Sunday, through December. Stop by for some shopping, refreshments and know your purchases go to support fair trade and Ghana 4E, a computer learning center in Omanjor, Ghana – Africa.

 
Plan Ahead: 

The Arts at St. Luke's presents A Christmas Carol

Friday, December 13, 2024 - 7:00pm
Sunday, December 15, 2024 - 3:00pm

As part of the Moravian Weekend Celebration in Hope, the Arts at St. Luke's is sponsoring a 1940s radio show presentation of "A Christmas Carol." The production, to be staged twice (3pm Dec. 13 and 7pm Dec. 15), creates the illusion of a radio station performance complete with sound effects and local news and ads. Please join Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Jacob Marley and the entire crew of this Dickens classic to usher in the holidays at the Hope Community Center at 5 Walnut Street. Seating is limited and available on a first come, first served basis. Doors open 1/2 hour before production. Suggested donation: $10.

Hope's Annual Moravian Christmas

Friday, December 13, 2024
Saturday, December 14, 2024
Sunday, December 15, 2024

Hope's annual Moravian Christmas features 1,500 luminaries around the whole village with guided lantern walking tours Saturday only and new this year, self guided tours with no reservations required. Guided tours are every 30 minutes from 4 - 6pm at the community center. Other activities include the Festival of Trees at the Inn, Putz Replica of the Nativity Story at the Distillery, a live Nativity and food at the community center.

ACOTAR Trivia at Four Sisters Winery

Saturday, December 14, 2024 -
4:00pm to 7:00pm

Dive into the enchanting world of 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' at an exclusive Trivia Night hosted by Four Sisters Winery, for an evening filled with magic, games, and delectable treats. Indulge in Faerie Wine and themed mocktails while enjoying light appetizers including a curated charcuterie board, bruschetta, meatballs, and a fresh veggie tray. Browse the Emerie Shop, and come in costume! Tickets are $32/person, which includes entry to the event, food, a free beverage, and participation in trivia.

Murder at the Vineyard

Sunday, December 15, 2024 -
1:00pm to 4:00pm

Step into a world of intrigue and suspense in this immersive murder mystery experience that promises an evening of excitement and entertainment! Begin with a wine tasting featuring a selection of eight wines, followed by a dinner of fresh salad, Chicken Parmigiana with pasta and garlic bread, and homemade dessert. As the night unfolds, immerse yourself in the interactive murder mystery storyline. Cost for this 21+ event is $56.27/person.

Water Gap Singers presents Holiday Song Festival

Sunday, December 15, 2024 - 4:00pm

Joyeux Noel! Swing into the holiday season with the Water Gap Singers, who will be sharing a wonderful afternoon of French Christmas music under the direction of Joseph Mello. Free with goodwill offerings gratefully accepted, and a reception after the performance. 

Please be advised that we do our best to make sure the information in this message is accurate at the time it is sent. But things happen, plans change, weather can be fickle... you get the idea. Please click on the links provided to other websites to obtain further details and updates.