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Somerset County kicks off the 2026 holiday season with a run of tree lightings, a fire truck parade and a month long display of decorated trees. Here are the Somerset County celebrations with confirmed 2026 dates, listed in order, so you can plan the first weekends of December.
Times and details come from each town, organizer or the county tourism calendar. Weather can change outdoor plans, so check the official link before you head out.
Colonial Christmas Liberty Tree Lighting, Bedminster
Where: Jacobus Vanderveer House, just off Routes 202 and 206, Bedminster
When: Friday, November 27, 2026, tree lighting typically at 5 pm
The Jacobus Vanderveer House opens its Colonial Christmas weekend with a free public lighting of its Liberty Tree, which is typically lit at 5 pm. Expect carolers, hot chocolate, hot pretzels, Santa and an open house at the restored Dutch farmhouse. The weekend continues Saturday and Sunday as the house’s annual fundraiser.
Downtown Somerville Holiday Jubilee
Where: Downtown Somerville, with the main stage on Division Street and performances at United Reformed Church on Main Street
When: Friday, December 4, 2026, 5 pm to 9 pm, tree lighting at 7 pm
Somerville’s biggest holiday night features local school and community groups on the Division Street stage, trolley rides along Main Street, light up performers and giveaways on West Main Street and hot cocoa stations. The Grand Christmas Tree Lighting is at 7 pm with Santa, the Mayor and the Grinch, followed by photos with Santa at United Reformed Church and a DJ dance party on Division Street at 8 pm. Park only in designated public lots.
Downtown Somerville Holiday Jubilee
Hillsborough Tree Lighting Ceremony
Where: Hillsborough Township; the 2025 event was held at the Hillsborough Municipal Complex
When: Friday, December 4, 2026, starting at 5 pm
Hillsborough’s township calendar lists its 2026 Tree Lighting Ceremony with a 5 pm start, and the county calendar shows it running to 8 pm. Last year’s celebration included Santa lighting the tree, free hot cocoa and cookies, train rides, food trucks and performances. Confirm the 2026 location and parking on the township site.
Hillsborough Township calendar
Winter Market and Tree Lighting, Basking Ridge
Where: Downtown Basking Ridge, Bernards Township
When: Saturday, December 5, 2026, noon to 7 pm
Held every year on the first Saturday in December, this downtown tradition pairs a winter market of local vendors and artisans with the evening lighting of the town tree. It is coordinated by the Basking Ridge Business Alliance, and the township lists the 2026 event from noon to 7 pm. Come early to shop, then stay for the lighting.
15th Annual Holiday Lights Parade, Somerville
Where: Starts at 170 East Main Street, Somerville
When: Saturday, December 5, 2026, 6 pm to about 10 pm
Hosted by the Somerville Fire Department, this parade brings decorated fire trucks and emergency vehicles from across the region through Somerville, led by Santa. The county calendar lists a 6 pm start and an end around 10 pm. Expect rolling road closures along the route.
Santa Comes to Town and Tree Lighting, North Plainfield
Where: North Plainfield; the 2025 event was held at the Vermeule Community Center, 614 Greenbrook Road
When: Sunday, December 6, 2026, 4 pm to 6 pm
North Plainfield’s Mayor’s Special Events list confirms Santa Comes to Town and the Tree Lighting for Sunday, December 6. The county calendar lists it from 4 pm to 6 pm. Past editions have included photos with Santa, hot chocolate and a craft for kids, so check the borough site for the 2026 details.
North Plainfield special events
48th Festival of Trees
Where: Somerset County Park Commission Environmental Education Center, 190 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge
When: Friday, December 4 to Sunday, December 27, 2026, 9 am to 4:30 pm daily, closed December 24 and 25
This indoor exhibit fills the Environmental Education Center with trees decorated by community groups and individuals, set to holiday music. Admission is a suggested $5 donation per person, and visitors can drop off new, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots. It is an easy daytime stop that works for all ages.
Tips for Tree Lighting Season
- Arrive early for downtown events in Somerville and Basking Ridge, where parking fills quickly.
- Dress for cold evenings and bring a flashlight for walks back to the car.
- Many events collect new toys or food donations, so check the official page before you go.
More in Somerset County: holiday markets and craft fairs, holiday shows and concerts, and Thanksgiving week things to do.
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