Life slows down for the holidays in historic smithville — The Carousal at Smithville New Jersey at night.

SMITHVILLE,NJ-The holiday season is upon us in New Jersey and one stop you should consider making is in Historic Smithville. The small shopping village is located in Absecon just off exit 48 on the Garden State Parkway.

The village contains over 50 small shops along cobblestone walkways and while it’s a great destination all year long, it’s a little more special during the holiday and Christmas season when it turns into a winter wonderland.

Open 7 days a week, the holidays kicked off on Thanksgiving with 120 lighted Christmas trees floating on nearby Lake Meone in the center of the village.

“The moment darkness falls, an orchestrated show of lights and music is played out across the lake. The lights seem to dance and chase each other to the music all the while reflecting of the water’s surface. This show can be seen from either side of the village as well as the bridge,” according to the official Historic Smithville website.

There’s so much do when you get there, from just browsing shops to a full Christmas experience for the whole family that includes S’mores on the Greene, story time with Mrs. Claus, a magical talking Christmas tree, a holiday train ride, breakfast with Santa and themed events throughout the month of December.

Things to do in Historic Smithville during the holiday season.

S’mores on the Greene – “Newly added this year is S’mores on the Greene. Each Friday, Saturday and Sunday in the month of December you can find us making s’mores around the camp fire on the Greene. For a small fee you will purchase your own s’mores packet and stick and make delicious yummy treats or just gather with us and enjoy . 5pm – 8pm weather permitting.”

Mrs. Claus Story time – The arcade is transformed into a Christmas themed area where Mrs. Claus reads stories for children between 1:30-4:30pm every weekend.

Smithville train – Decorated for the holidays, the $2 trek around the Smithville railroad is fun for all ages.

Magical talking Christmas tree – If you haven’t seen it, it’s sure to make you smile and your children too.

Two special events are being hosted at Historic Smithville this month. On December 6th, it’s Girls Night Out with wine and cheese, raffles and discounts for a great night out with the BFF’s.

On December 1st, they are hosting a hospitality night to thank loyal customers with discounts and live entertainment.

Breakfast with Santa will be on December 8th and 15th, but reservations are required.

To learn more about Historic Smithville, visit www.historicsmithville.com or call 609-748-8999.

This story is part of Shore News Network’s Holidays in Jersey features. Each day we will feature holiday themed events throughout the Garden State.

Have a Christmas or holiday themed event to share in New Jersey, please email us at news@shorenewsnetwork.com

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