With November well underway, the holiday season is slowly making its way right here in the North Jersey area. Decorations are being put up and the weather is beginning to get cooler. There is nothing like celebrating the holidays locally — many bars and locales are beginning to prepare for the festivities. To curate your holiday bucket list, here’s a list of North Jersey holiday pop-up markets and bars happening for the 2023 holiday season.

Disclaimer: These events are included as an editorial resource and The Montclair Girl is not affiliated with any of these events. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including cancellations due to inclement weather, contact the host directly.

Want us to include another North Jersey holiday pop-up market? Send us a note at [email protected].

Miracle on Mercer | 92 Barrow Street, Jersey City

November 9th – January 1st

Franklin Social is going all out for the holidays, transforming into Miracle on Mercer. To celebrate the festivities, there will be a cocktail Christmas experience for holiday enthusiasts to enjoy. There will be several holiday-themed drinks to taste while savoring the holiday spirit. The experience will last for about two months, so there’s plenty of time to make your reservation. Guests can make a reservation by clicking here.

Read More: A Guide to Christmas Tree Farms in New Jersey

Miracle on Centre | 229 Centre Street, Nutley

November 10th – January 1st

Cowan’s Public is a neighborhood pub in Nutley that is known for its selection of draft beers, craft cocktails, and classic American fare. Just in time for the holidays, Cowan’s Public will be turning into a Christmas wonderland. Miracle on Centre will be a Christmas cocktail bar. In years past, drinks were served in festive cups and the pub was decked out in holiday decor. Guests can expect the pop-up experience to be similar this year. Reservations can be made here.

Miracle on Bloomfield | 706 Bloomfield Avenue, Verona

November 14th – January 1st

The Parkside Social is another local bar and restaurant that will also be turned into a holiday cocktail-themed experience. Come dressed in festive wear while you sip on the selection of cocktails that will be available. To participate, reservations are needed and can be made here.

Miracle on Valley | 191 Valley Boulevard, Wood-Ridge

November 16th – January 1st

Starting in mid-November, Gus’ Last Word welcomes everyone to join a festive drink experience. In years past, one drink that has been served is the Jingle Balls Nog, which is made of cognac, cream sherry, almond milk, cream, egg, and nutmeg. As well as, On Dasher, a drink made with ingredients like gin, vanilla liqueur, marshmallow, cardamom, black pepper, lemon, cream, egg, and soda. Reservations can be made here and for parties larger than six, guests should call Gus’ Last Word at (973)-939-5608.

Sippin’ Santa | 705 Frank East Rodgers Boulevard South, Harrison

November 20th – January 1st

Christmas will be celebrated in a tropical-themed setting at The Vanguard in Harrison. This pop-up is decked with festive decor and added tropical island elements while sipping on different cocktail selections. You can also expect to jam along to some live music performances as it is one of the highlights of The Vanguard. Guests can click here to book a reservation.

Sleighs + Leis | 335 Newark Avenue, Jersey City

Starts November 21st

The annual Sleighs and Leis is making its comeback in mid-November. This Christmas pop-up will set up shop at Cellar 335 just like in years past. It is a unique Christmas experience that is described as a “modern tiki cocktail lounge” with Asian-inspired dishes. You will feel like you’re in a Christmas wonderland with the different ornaments and decorations plastered all over Cellar 335. Reservations can be made here once the opening date comes. 

Classic Christmas | 1296 Van Houten Avenue, Clifton

TBD

This event will be hosted by The Barrow House in Clifton. Reservations can be made through Resy here. There is yet to be more information released by the restaurant, but guests can be sure to expect a Christmas element behind it.

Glen Ridge Holiday Market | 200 Ridgewood Avenue, Glen Ridge

December 3rd | 11AM- 4PM

Back for its 2023 season, the GRHS/MS Home + School Association will host its Glen Ridge Holiday Market. It will be held in the gymnasium area of Glen Ridge High School. This market will feature items from different vendors which visitors will have the chance to shop from. Some of the participating vendors are Storytime Kids, Acorn Hill Studio, The Giraffe’s Heart, and Rita Presto Designs. Learn more here.

Main Street Pops Holiday Markets | Hoboken

December 3rd – December 17th | Sundays, 11AM – 4PM

Main Street Pops will be hosting a holiday-themed market event for three December weekends in a row. There will be an opportunity to shop from artisan vendors. Visitors can shop for items ranging from fashion, accessories, jewelry, artisanal foods, art, bath + body, and other products. Other holiday activities that will be featured are pet photo opportunities, a dance party, carousel rides, and a holiday concert. Learn more here.

The North Pole’s Pop-up Event | 44 Market Street, Saddlebrook

December 3rd | 2PM – 7PM

Get a glimpse of the North Pole with this pop-up event. There will be appearances made by Santa and his elves. Little ones will have the chance to get free toys while supplies last. For your holiday content, professional photographers will be on the spot to snap photos. Other activities include a permanent jewelry station, food, desserts, and more. Details about the event can be found here. 

Winter Wonderland Toy Drive Market | 513 Veterans Place

December 9th | 12PM

To help children in need, the New Jersey community is welcome to attend this free event to spread holiday cheer. There will be different vendors showcasing their business ranging from crafts, treats, and other items. Santa will be making a special appearance in this holiday event. A DJ will be playing music while other activities go on like a gift-wrapping station and kid activities. Click here to learn about this event. 

‘Tis The Season | 17 Bennett Road, Englewood

December 9th | 1PM – 6PM

Plenty of local vendors will be on hand to help on the quest for the perfect gift. There will be fashion items, holiday-themed treats, and other festive-related activities yet to be announced. There is no entry fee required and to learn more about this event, click here.

The HDSID Happy Holiday Market | Grove Street Path Plaza + Rooftop at the Ashford + Under the Boot, Jersey City

December 9th – 10th, December 16th – 17th | 12PM – 6PM

This market highlights the handcrafted creations made by local artists and businesses. It will be a free event that will have music and food to enjoy while shopping for the holidays in a local space. On December 7th, there will be a  Christmas tree and menorah lighting event.  Community members will come together to ring in the start of the holiday season while sipping on hot chocolate, munching on cookies, and getting a gift from Santa. This event is free and more information can be found here.

See More: Where to Buy Holiday Decorations in Hoboken + Jersey City

Holiday House Tour | Location to be given upon RSVP

December 15th | 4PM – 7PM

The Montclair community will be able to take a look at seven homes that will be festively decorated for the holidays. Refreshments will be served. Montclair High School’s Passing Notes Acapella Group will be performing at two of the homes. All proceeds made from the event will benefit MHS’s Project Graduation Class of 2024. Learn more here. 

Handmade Holiday at the Woodland | 60 Woodland Road, Maplewood

December 17th | 10AM – 4PM

Visitors can come and shop for handmade items created by local makers. There will be several tables set up with items ranging from jewelry, clothing, and others. If you’re a maker, there is a sign-up form here to be able to participate. Learn more about this event here.