JINGLE BELL SQUARE - WHERE TO FIND A CHRISTMAS VILLAGE IN NEW JERSEY

At this very moment, merrymakers are out there dancing and prancing in Jingle Bell Square. Ready to don that gay apparel? You, too, will be snowing and blowing up bushels of fun at these holiday villages, where the spirit of Saint Nick sets up shop all season long.

- CHIP O'CHANG

MONMOUTH COUNTY

HISTORIC ALLAIRE VILLAGE

4263 ATLANTIC AVE., FARMINGDALE, N.J. 07727

Visit New Jersey's premiere living history site for a glimpse of Christmas past.

On Dec. 14, sign up for a guided tour of the village by candlelight. On Dec. 15, witness a 19th-century Christmas!

Or take the Holiday Evening Stroll on Dec. 20-22, a self-guided journey through the candle-lit village where you can enjoy fresh-baked holiday treats, purchase unique gifts and souvenirs, and enjoy the slower pace of an old-fashioned Christmas. All event proceeds benefit the historic village.

SEE MORE AT: ALLAIREVILLAGE.ORG

MONMOUTH COUNTY

THE VILLAGE AT ANNE ELLEN CHRISTMAS TREE FARM

114 DAUM ROAD, MANALAPAN, N.J. 07726

This Christmas tree farm transforms into an enchanting wonderland lit by thousands of twinkling holiday lights. Take a tranquil hayride to a Christmas village filled with 36 themed sites and attractions, all alight with festive holiday decor. Dessert-lovers can take a walk through a life-sized gingerbread house (don't worry, Hansel - no witch to be found here!).