Bergen Restaurants And Parades That Bring ‘Seasons Greetings’

Tree lightings, festive eateries and visits from Santa take center stage this weekend.

The halls have been decked, you’ve started your shopping and Christmas carols are playing on the radio in earnest. Yes, the holiday season has arrived in all its glory—and there’s much more to enjoy.

Many Bergen restaurants, for instance, go all out with décor this time of year, setting up Instagram-worthy displays that are worth seeing in person. And stick around to grab a bite to eat (you’ll work up an appetite after all that shopping!) and truly soak up the holiday vibe. Be sure to check out the decorations at the eateries below, and stay tuned for next week when we share a list of Bergen homes with over-the-top holiday displays.

Gus’ Last Word, Wood-Ridge. The annual “Miracle on the Valley” is back, as everything in this tavern is decked out in holiday-inspired décor. Remember to try one of the Christmas cocktails and bring the family to snap photos by the tree!

Hearth & Tap, Montvale. From New Year’s and St. Patrick’s Day to Thanksgiving and now Christmas, holidays here are a treat. Grab an intimate spot by a fireplace or enjoy the decorations with friends near the bar.

Ho-Ho-Kus Inn, Ho-Ho-Kus. It’s easy to catch the holiday spirit at this restaurant, where dining rooms are filled with festive garland, warm candles and a roaring fireplace. The food is top-notch too.

W’s Village Grille, Waldwick. Before heading to the North Pole, Santa’s elves probably stopped here to decorate: Santa, nutcrackers, silver bells and red ornaments are everywhere, from floor to ceiling.

Still looking for more fun? Some of Bergen’s best holiday attractions have already debuted (and many are open until after New Year’s Day!), but there are others on deck. If you missed your town’s holiday celebration—or if you simply can’t get enough of a downtown parade—here are seven others happening this weekend.  

Friday, Dec. 6

• Ridgewood’s Downtown for the Holidays. Kicking off with a can’t-miss tree lighting at 6:30 p.m., this celebration goes until 9 p.m. and is full of holiday cheer. Enjoy a visit from Santa, s’mores around a firepit, live music, rides on a trackless train and more.

Saturday, Dec. 7

• Ramsey’s Home for the Holidays celebration. This event begins at 4 p.m., when visitors can stop by the Ramsey fire headquarters for food trucks, holiday-themed vendors and great music. At 6:30 p.m., the Parade of Lights steps off on Main Street to dazzle and delight.
• The Hermitage Museum’s annual tree lighting and festivities. Head to the historic museum in Ho-Ho-Kus at 4:30 p.m. for a late afternoon with holiday carolers, hot chocolate and more family fun activities. The celebration is free and open to all.
• Westwood’s Home for the Holidays celebration. This year, Westwood’s annual holiday celebration has a “Twinkle, Shine & Glow” theme. Shopping and dining specials will be held downtown throughout the day. The parade itself steps off at 6 p.m., and a tree lighting with photo ops and Santa himself will take place in Veterans Park afterward.

Sunday, Dec. 8

• Fair Lawn’s Parade of Lights and Winter Wonderland. Fair Lawn’s Memorial Park hosts emergency vehicles all decked out in lights at 6:30 p.m. Hot cocoa and candy canes will be available for all, and children in attendance will receive a special gift. Kids can also enjoy a special outdoor skating rink and inflatables.
• Mahwah’s Winterfest. Mahwah’s revamped winter celebration will begin with a parade at 5:30 p.m. to Commodore Perry Field, where Santa will light the town’s new holiday tree. Festivities include photos with Santa, face painting, vendors, music and more. Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to donate to the Center For Food Action as well as new, unwrapped toys for the Mahwah Police Department’s toy drive.

Monday, Dec. 9

• Hackensack’s annual tree lighting. Stop by Hackensack’s Green at 5:30 p.m. for an evening of music to kick off the season. In addition to the tree lighting, there will be performances by traditional carolers, the Hackensack High School Choir and the cast of Hackensack Performing Arts Center’s “The Christmas Caper.” Light refreshments will also be served.

How are you spreading holiday cheer in Bergen? Tell us all about it on Instagram @bergenmagnj.