The Holidays are quickly approaching and we encourage you to shop small this year. Skip out on the long lines at the mall and head to a town near you with small and local businesses. We’ve put together a list of 16 holiday markets, bazaars and towns that are offering unique and homemade items crafted with love and attention so you can find the perfect gifts for your friends and family this Holiday Season.

Need a break from all your holiday shopping? Check out a tree lighting ceremony near you – 15 Towns With Tree Lighting Celebrations

Asbury Park Bazaar

It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Asbury Park! Their annual Holiday Bazaar is inspired by the traditional “Weihnachtsmarkts” holiday markets held in Germany. The Bazaar will showcase handcrafted goods and unique holiday gifts by local and regional makers and small businesses, holiday music and entertainment, Photos with Santa, food & libations, craft workshops, kids activities, festive décor, music, and more. Bazaar Dates – Black Friday, Nov 28 & Every Sat & Sun, Nov 29-Dec 22, (Fridays 3-8pm & Saturday & Sunday – 12-5pm). The bazaar is also at The Asbury Hotel, December 1st, 8th and 15th, 12-5 pm. Grand Arcade of Convention Hall https://www.asburyparkbazaar.com/

After you shop all the stands at the Bazaar, here are some local eats to check out in Asbury:

• Taka – Come get your sushi on at Taka where they serve the best Japanese cuisine on Cookman Ave.
• Mutiny BBQ Company – is Monmouth County’s Destination for High-Quality Craft BBQ. Try their pit to plate BBQ and scratch made sides.

Whitechaple Projects Holiday Bazaar

Get ready for a holly jolly December at Kringle Cove at Whitechapel Projects, where they’re turning up the holiday spirit. From twinkling lights to dazzling décor and seasonal delights, their doors will be open Wednesday through Sunday all month long to bring you a joyful escape filled with holiday décor and festive fun events. Pop-Up Dates: November 29th – Jan 6^th, Wednesday – Sunday. 15 2nd Ave, Long Branch, NJ https://www.whitechapelprojects.com/kringle-cove

Here are some local eats and shops to check out around Long Branch:

• Mar Belo – Taste the authentic flavors of Portugal and Spain with fresh wild-caught fish, high quality organically-fed open-range meats and delectable house specialty desserts.
• White Birch Wellness Spa – Start your Holiday Season off right at White Birch Spa with a discounted Hydrating Facial or Swedish Massage!
• Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant – Offers picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean and Long Branch Boardwalk while providing innovative, diverse dishes with the concept of fresh seafood at the heart of its cuisine. 
• Charley’s Ocean Grill – is a seaside restaurant & bar that offers quality meals, delicious cocktails and gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Trama’s Trattoria – When you dine at Trama’s, you will be transported to the warm hills of Tuscany. Each dish is made with the highest-quality local, farm to table ingredients.
• Shampoochies – Spoil your pet with the best grooming services and items from their Bark-A-Licious Bakery that has a huge selection of treats, birthday hats, toys and more!
• The Stone Gallery Inc, NJ – will make your experience unique and pleasurable in creating “Your Idea in Stone” by offering customers a unique experience in creating architectural finishes in stone.

Porta Holiday Market

Join Porta in Asbury Park for a series of shopping events featuring a curated collection of 25 local handmade artists and makers coming together for a wonderful holiday celebration. Market Dates – December 1st & 15th from 12-4pm. 911 Kingsley St, Asbury Park https://www.asburyfresh.com/

Once you shop the vendors at the Holiday Market, head into town and check out these other local businesses:

• Hot Sand – is New Jersey’s first public glassblowing studio and is located right on Cookman Ave. Make a reservation to blow glass this Holiday Season.
• Kur Wellness Studios – provides a full menu of massage, skin care and waxing services with a unique yoga studio that doubles as a private personal training gym. Try some of their introductory specials!

Cape May Crafts at Christmas

Looking to do some Holiday Shopping in South Jersey? We have just the place! Visit Cape May Convention Hall on December 7th from 9am to 4pm an December 8th from 9am-3pm for the annual Crafts at Christmas Show! Shop local vendors all offering handmade, unique items. Cape May Convention Hall 714 Beach Avenue https://www.capemaycity.com/craft-shows

Take the day and explore Cape May after the Craft Show and check out some other local businesses:

• Cape Atlantic Book Co – Real Books for Real People. They are a full-service independent bookstore located in historic Victorian Cape May, New Jersey selling books, games and puzzles.
• Cape May Winery – This local winery has grown over the past two decades to produce some of South Jersey’s most distinguished wines. Our vineyard encompasses over four different vineyards, containing over 70 acres, from which we produce over 16 different varieties of grapes.
• West End Garage – Check out antique furniture and accessories, vintage memorabilia, artwork from local and regional artisans, estate jewelry, and more. This is a gift-shopping paradise; you can find unique gifts for the most discriminating person.

Noyes Holiday Market and Gingerbread Village

The Noyes Holiday Market & Gingerbread Village is taking place Saturday & Sunday – December 14 & 15, 2024 from 12 – 5 PM at the Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University. Admission is free so come check out some craft vendors, take photos with Santa, enter the Atlantic City themed gingerbread house competition, make some crafts and grab a snack from their food and drink vendors. 2200 Fairmount Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 https://www.artsgarageac.com/noyes-holiday-market

Explore all Atlantic City has to offer after the Market and check out some local eats:

• Angelo’s – This Italian restaurant’s menu has aged like a fine Italian wine. Throughout the years, Angelo’s has become one of the favorite Atlantic City restaurants known as perennial gathering place for friends and a haven for the hungry. 
• Irish Pub Inn – Nostalgic former speakeasy with low lighting, typical fare & antique bar pouring beers & whiskeys. The pub is conveniently located close to the boardwalk, casinos and beach.
• Fresh Harvest Buffet – Located in the Hard Rock Casino, the Buffet is the place to embark on a culinary tour of the world where every meal is a show-stopping chef’s performance. Fresh Harvest Buffet brings guests live-action cooking and carving stations, brick oven pizzas, dim sum, delicious desserts and everything in between.

Toms River’s Winter Wonderland Village

Downtown Toms River’s Town Hall courtyard will be transformed into a Winter Wonderland Village on December 7th from 11-5pm. Vendors, kid’s activities, hot chocolate station, holiday music and more will be available. Downtown businesses will also be open for some local shopping and food sampling. 33 Washington St. Toms River, NJ 08753 https://downtowntomsriver.com/tree-lighting/

Explore Downtown and try some of these local businesses:

• Capone’s – This family owned and operated business makes homemade pasta, ravioli and stuffed gnocchi daily and they also are a wood-fired pizzeria. Homemade Italian dishes are served with up-scale service.
• Battle River Brewing – Located Downtown, they have IPAs, Pilsners, Stouts, Porters, HefeWeizen and more. You can also take a tour of the brewery and on tap you’ll find hard seltzers, lagers, Blonde ales and so much more. 
• Uncle Dood’s – Made fresh to order donuts with a new menu every single month, you’re in for a delicious treat at Uncle Dood’s.

The Basie Center Holiday Pop Up Weekend

FRESH markets returns to Red Bank for their holiday pop-up market at the Basie Center On December 14^th and 15^th from 11am-8pm. There will be up to 20+ vendors to check out for unique items and well as food to purchase. 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank 07711 https://thebasie.org/event_category/holidays/

If you need a place to stay or some dinner options, these are the places to be!

• Pazzo MMX – Rustic Italian classics, daily fish, meat and pasta specialties, Coal Fired Pizza Oven, open air kitchen. These are just some of the things that make Pazzo the hot new Italian eatery in Red Bank, NJ!
• Molly Pitcher Inn – Overlooking the scenic Navesink River in Red Bank, stands Molly Pitcher Inn. Built in 1928, this historic landmark echoes charm and elegance. Molly Pitcher Inn is dedicated to providing the highest level of elegant accommodations, fine dining and exceptional service. 
• The Oyster Point Hotel – Dining at the intimate Pearl restaurant at Oyster Point is upscale and serene – a perfect spot to relax and enjoy knock-out contemporary American cuisine with tastes of Asia and the American Southwest from seasonal ingredients.
• The Pour House – is a family owned and operated restaurant in Tinton Falls for nearly 30 years! Great food, service and best of all – great prices! Come check out their new look and fantastic menu.

Ocean Grove Holiday Craft Fair

Don’t miss the 28th Annual St. Paul’s Craft Fair November 23rd from 9am-4pm, always on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, to get a head start on your holiday shopping for everyone on your list! Support local artisans and hand crafters by purchasing one-of-a-kind gifts from a huge selection of items displayed on 50 tables throughout the huge Fellowship Hall. Stop by the kitchen for some baked goods and lunch that will directly support the church’s missions. Admission is always free and so is the raffle to win handmade gifts! 80 Embury Avenue Ocean Grove, NJ, 07756 https://oceangrovechurch.squarespace.com/calendar/pz085so33rleleivd9m4z14xlgu3aq

Ocean Grove is an adorable small town located next to Asbury Park. Support these local shops!

• The Ocean Grove Bake Shop – Enjoy a variety of freshly baked muffins, pastries, cakes, Danish, artisan breads, and specialty puddings at this family owned Bake Shoppe.
• Purple Zebra Boutique – this gem of a shop offers unique items and positive vibes. This Artistic Boutique features jewelry, home décor, clothing and bed and bath products.

Historic Smithville

When you get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, plan a day at Smithville to slow it down, enjoy your family and be reminded of the simpler pleasures of the holidays. Smithville in December is just what your holidays need! The shops at Smithville are open November 29 – December 23 – Monday-Thursday: 10am – 7pm, Friday and Saturday: 10am – 9pm and Sunday: 11am – 7pm. The Holiday Train Ride runs all throughout December and Light Show on the Lake is everyday in December 5:30-8:30. 615 E Moss Mill Rd, Smithville https://www.historicsmithville.com/smithville-events/december-smithville/

After exploring everything Smithville has to offer, you’re going to want to fuel up at one of their eateries:

• Fred & Ethel’s – Lantern Light Tavern is Historic Smithville’s own special bar and grill. They offer homemade soups, salads, sandwiches and a variety of dinner entrees, along with cocktails beer and wine.
• Lakeside Grill‘s – Staff is filled with amazing people striving to build delightful American Cuisine. Their menu includes breakfast, lunch and now offering catering trays.
• Smithville Bakery & Coffee Shop – is a delicious destination in The Smithville Village. The Bakery serves fresh baked on premise pastries, donuts, breads, cookies, pies and cakes. A full breakfast menu is served daily in the 50 seat restaurant. 

Downtown Haddonfield

Spend the Winter Holidays in Historic Downtown Haddonfield, every Friday Night from November 29 – December 20, as the business district transforms into a sparkling wonderland. Downtown merchants will have extended shopping hours; open until 8 PM or later. Plus, Parking is FREE in Downtown from Thanksgiving until New Year’s Eve. Downtown Haddonfield, https://downtownhaddonfield.com/events/brunch-big-shop-small-business-weekend/

After you shop, here are some local food stops worth indulging in:

• Sweet T’s Bakeshop – Specializes in all baked goods including cupcakes, cookies, cake pops, birthday, wedding and specialty cakes. They also offer a variety of other delicious pastries and baked treats.
• Saxby’s Coffeeshop – In a community chock full of these beloved gems, Saxbys robust food menu and family friendly vibes have quickly cemented its status as a neighborhood staple. 
• Sanook Thai Cuisine – Nestled in the historic small town of Haddonfield, Sanook brings the bold flavors found on the streets and homes of Thailand with a modern flare of elevation. Offering only the freshest ingredients for guests to savor in.

Bell Works

Enjoy all thing local at Bell Works Fresh first holiday market of the season! Join Bell Works on November 30th from 12-5pm with live music by DJ Curtis Remarc starting at 5pm at Bar Bella! Come check out tons of vendors and find the perfect gifts for your friends and family this Holiday season. The Market will also be open weekends in December. 101 Crawfords Corner Rd, Holmdel https://bell.works/events/bell-works-fresh-saturday-holiday-market/

Bell Works is such a cool place to explore with local eats, shops and activities:

• Jersey Freeze Bell Works – open 7 days a week inside Bell Works, satisfy all your ice cream craving at Jersey Freeze and take home some of their to-go desserts.
• Bar Bella – Transports its guests to a cozy, coastal getaway, right in the heart of Bell Works. A relaxed, chic vibe, Bar Bella is the destination for your weekly night out, local entertainment, and beyond.
• Escapology – New Jersey’s newest premium real life escape game experience. Play in private teams of 2-10 players in exciting games and search carefully for clues, solve puzzles and try to escape one of their nine rooms within 60 minutes.

Red Bank

Red Bank is a shoppers paradise home to a mix of family-owned mom and pops all the way to nationally admired brands. From gorgeous couture clothing to trendy boutiques, vintage wares, antiques, exclusive retail shops, world-class jewelers and bohemian-chic apparel, Red Bank retailers have a little something for everyone. Come on out this Holiday season and shop under the lights on Broad Street. Red Bank BroadWalk, https://www.facebook.com/RedBankVisitorsCenter/

If you need some holiday catering, these businesses are who you need to reach out to!

• Monmouth Meats – is a full service, old fashioned butcher shop and meat market that continues to be a valued family tradition for decades.

New Egypt Flea Market Village

New Egypt Flea Market Village is a unique shopping village, located in New Jersey, that offers a wide variety of vendors in a quaint and convenient location. From collectibles to furniture, new and old, you can find almost anything there. Come on out on Small Business Friday, December 6th and explore the Market Shoppes, additional vendor stands, food trucks and tree lighting! Join in on the festivities and show some small town holiday spirit. 933 Monmouth Rd, Cream Ridge https://newegyptfleamarket.com/events/

After finding the perfect gifts at the flea market, head into town for some local eats:

• Anthony’s Italian Restaurant – is the right place for a delicious pizza in New Egypt, NJ! You can always count on them for a fresh meal and excellent service.
• Tootie’s – their famous ice cream bar is closed for the season until spring 2024, but you can still dine in 7 days a week 6am-2pm for delicious food and warm dishes.
• El Aguila Deli & Take Out – this authentic take out Mexican Restaurant is becoming one of the best places to enjoy authentic and fresh Mexican food in the New Egypt area.

Keansburg Fire Company #1

The Keansburg Fire Company #1 will be hosting their 4th Annual Holiday Bazaar on Monday, December 2nd from 6-9pm. The Holiday Bazaar will be taking place next to the tree lighting at Friendship Park so come on out, support local and enjoy the holiday cheer. Pictures with Santa, Raffles and free hot chocolate will also be available! 11 Manning Place, Keansburg https://www.facebook.com/keansburgfirecompany/

Spend the whole day in Keansburg before the Holiday Bazaar and fill up on breakfast, pastries and beer:

• Jillaney’s Luncheonette – Serves delicious American cuisine and daily specials. Their staff is friendly, inviting and they offer free delivery everyday.
• David Burke’s Dixie Lee Bakery – Celebrates old traditions and creates new ones. Celebrity Chef David Burke newly directs this Classic American Bakery with his award-winning team.
• Grin Brewing – this beloved local establishment is dedicated to crafting exceptional beers that put a smile on your face. With a cozy and inviting atmosphere, Grin Brewing is the perfect place to grab a pint with friends or relax with a book. 

Winter Market at Town & Country

Join the Town and Country Inn for a festive Winter Pop-Up Market in Keyport on December 7th from 11 AM to 4 PM! Explore a wide array of handmade artisans offering unique gifts perfect for the holiday season, enjoy delicious food from the diner – a treat for your taste buds, and don’t miss out on their fabulous door prizes! Bring your friends and family for a day of shopping, eating, and holiday cheer! Town & Country Inn, Keyport, https://www.facebook.com/events/426407583881460

• Drew’s Bayshore Bistro – Intimate, friendly, and focused on good cooking, the Bistro has become the region’s go-to place for great food inspired by Gulf Coast and Low Country cuisines.
• McDonagh’s Pub – Featuring a menu of Irish Pub fare, they are located in the heart of historic downtown Keyport in the turn of the century brick building near the bay. They combine old-world charm with modern, hip cuisine. 
• Old Glory Kitchen + Spirits – prides themselves on using only the freshest and finest ingredients available while supporting local fisherman, farmers and selling the highest quality meats, produce and seafood available. They also have one of the area’s largest selections of canned beer.

Holiday Made in Monmouth

Holiday Made in Monmouth will take place on Saturday, December 14^th. The event will be held at Brookdale Community College in the Robert J. Collins Arena and Recreation Events Center from 10 am to 4 pm. Over 200 vendors of products made in Monmouth County will be on display and for sale. Made In Monmouth is a program for both vendors and visitors to encourage people to shop locally and to create new and important items that the public will want to buy! All events are free to both vendors and the public. Brookdale Community College, https://www.facebook.com/share/15VWdHXtSk/

• Rainbow Sushi – offers an authentic Japanese menu with hibachi and a sushi bar. Come try their highly experienced chef’s creation of their own unique flavor sauce and top quality ingredients to make their sushi one of a kind. 
• Oriental Gourmet – serving amazing Chinese cuisine in a pleasant atmosphere. All dishes are made with fresh ingredients and tasty exotic sauces.
• Aleo Italian Specialties – Enjoy their daily lunch and dinner specials, a la carte menu, specialty sandwiches, fresh homemade mozzarella, homemade sausages, daily soups, special salads and desserts.