A Ride Through HOLIDAY MEMORIES
MEET “RUBY RAY,” THE LITTLE RED TRUCK SPREADING NOSTALGIA, LOVE AND CHEER— CREATED BY A BERGEN COUNTY FAMILY FOR YOURS.
DECEMBER 2025
JONAS K. SEIGEL Partner
JAN K. SEIGEL Partner
All Is Calm, All Is Bright
Happy December, Ramapo Valley!
I’ve officially reached that point in the parenting journey where the holiday magic is… partially outsourced. For years, my husband was the chief elf wrangler in our house—moving “Alejandro,” our mischievous Elf on the Shelf, from one creative hiding spot to another each night. But as our family grew, so did the elf population. What started as one spritely visitor has now become a full-blown elf family, and let me tell you—the fun lasts about three nights before it turns into a logistical nightmare.
Thankfully, our oldest daughter (now nearly 17!) has taken over some of the elf duties. She’s far more creative than he is (and bonus points—she never forgets to move them). Last year, the elves spent the night ziplining from the kitchen to the Christmas tree—complete with ribbon, tape and just enough of a mess to leave me only slightly annoyed. I’ll admit, it was impressive. One of my favorite traditions, though, comes on Christmas Eve, when the elves leave behind a box filled with matching family pajamas before heading back to the North Pole.
This month’s issue celebrates that same spirit of love, laughter and community. If you’re still searching for the perfect gift, Gifts that Go Beyond The Box (page 32) has something for everyone. Then, turn to Merry & Bright in the Ramapo Valley (page 34) for festive happenings. And for readers celebrating Hanukkah, Bright Ways to Celebrate (page 38) offers creative, family-friendly ways to make the Festival of Lights shine even brighter this year.
For a dose of hometown holiday nostalgia, The Little Red Truck That Could (page 26) tells the story behind Ruby Ray, a 1955 Ford F-100 that’s become a Bergen County holiday icon and a tribute to one family’s love and legacy.
From our family to yours, we wish you a joyful, laughter-filled holiday season surrounded by the people (and maybe the elves) who make life bright. May your days be filled with warmth, good food, unexpected moments of magic and just enough chaos to keep things memorable. Here’s to cozy nights, twinkling lights and traditions old and new that remind us what this season is really all about. TIFFANY & JAKE SLOWINSKI , PUBLISHERS
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Carly Mac Manus | carly.macmanus@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Dee Rivera | dee.rivera@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Kristin Kowalewski | Kristin.Kowalewski@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Hilary Russo, Garden State City Lifestyle, Allison K. Lim
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
New Jersey Ballet, InterContinental Boston, Garden State City Lifestyle, Maria RogersTiny Hearts Photography, Bergen County Zoo, Mahwah twp
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Proverbs 3:5-6
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN DECEMBER
city scene
1-2: IHA students honored in National Merit Scholarship Program with one semifinalist and 10 commended students. 3: Jari Becker, RPh, hosted the Women, Wellness and Wine event at Town & Country Compounding. The next gathering is Dec. 9. 4-5: Grand opening: Ridge House brings bold flavors and modern style to Wood-Ridge. 6: Elements Psychological Services celebrated the grand opening of its second office in Chatham. 7: Ramapo College Homecoming 2025 celebrated 56 years with pumpkin painting, games and family fun.
IMMACULATE HEART ACADEMY
IMMACULATE HEART ACADEMY
TOWN & COUNTRY COMPOUNDING
GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE
GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE
RAMAPO COLLEGE
RAMAPO COLLEGE
RAMAPO COLLEGE
DINK 4 A DIFFERENCE
This September, 100 pickleball enthusiasts joined SPORTIME Englewood for Comfort Cases’ Dink for a Difference charity tournament. Comfort Cases, founded by Rob Scheer, aims to end the practice of children in foster care transporting belongings in trash bags by providing backpacks filled with essentials and comfort items. To date, 265,000 cases have been distributed nationwide. The event raised $20,000 through player registrations and Community Partners, including EmpireCLS, Compass Ridgewood, Englewood Orthopedic Associates, The Goddard School Ramsey, and The Flow Salon—showcasing Bergen County’s hyper-local heart.
Photography by Garden State City Lifestyle
NEW JERSEY BALLET’S “NUTCRACKER” RETURNS TO BERGENPAC FOR A HOLIDAY TRADITION
A SEASON OF ENCHANTMENT
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEW JERSEY BALLET
The holiday season in Bergen County wouldn’t be complete without the magic of “The Nutcracker,” and this December, New Jersey Ballet brings its cherished production back to bergenPAC for a weekend of enchantment.
Performances will be held at 1 and 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, and Sunday, Dec. 7. Tickets range from $35 to $65 and are on sale now through the bergenPAC box office.
A BELOVED HOLIDAY CLASSIC
For more than five decades, New Jersey Ballet’s “Nutcracker” has delighted audiences across the state with its blend of stunning choreography, lavish costumes and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. Known as the longest-running original professional production in New Jersey, it first debuted in 1971 with international ballet star Edward Villella as the Cavalier.
Since then, the company has staged about 800 performances for more than 1 million viewers, involving more than 5,000 dancers and children. Today, generations who grew up attending the show return with their own children and grandchildren, making it one of the state’s most enduring holiday traditions.
ABOUT THE COMPANY
Founded in 1958, New Jersey Ballet has built a reputation for artistic excellence and accessibility, presenting world-class ballet across the state for more than 65 years. The company’s repertory balances timeless classics with contemporary works, reaching diverse audiences and inspiring a love of dance in new generations.
Under the artistic direction of Maria Kowroski, a former New York City Ballet principal dancer, the company has expanded its vision. Kowroski has added works by legendary choreographers such as George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins and Christopher Wheeldon, while also commissioning innovative pieces by rising stars including Harrison Ball and Lauren Lovette.
Her leadership has elevated New Jersey Ballet’s prominence, with recent appearances at prestigious venues including Lincoln Center, the Guggenheim and Kaatsbaan Cultural Park.
AT BERGENPAC
Located at 30 N. Van Brunt St. in Englewood, bergenPAC provides the perfect stage for this holiday favorite. A community landmark and nonprofit arts center, bergenPAC continues to bring world-class performances to northern New Jersey.
Tickets for “The Nutcracker” are available by phone at (201) 227-1030, online at bergenpac.org or in person during box office hours. Walk-up sales are also available two hours before each performance.
LESSANDKEEP
PE ACE
Let’s face it—you can’t pour from an empty cup. And if you’ve ever tried, you know it usually ends with resentment, exhaustion or eating three extra slices of pie just to cope.
As a trauma-informed holistic mental health practitioner (and someone who’s heard every family dinner horror story imaginable), I can tell you this: Setting healthy boundaries during the holidays isn’t selfish—it’s science. Neuroscience shows that when we set and hold boundaries, we think clearly and speak kindly. This helps avoid snapping at Uncle Joe when he brings up politics—or when Cousin Linda asks if you’re seeing anyone new… again.
ATTHEHOLIDAY
Here are 10 ways to protect your peace (and your nervous system) this holiday season.
A
Trauma-Informed Take on Healthy Boundaries That Actually Stick
ARTICLE BY HILARY RUSSO
1. REFLECT ON YOUR “WHY”
Before you say yes to anything, remember your inner peace is everything. From hosting dinner to buying another gift, pause and ask, Why am I saying yes to this? Studies on motivation and behavior show that acting from alignment, not obligation, decreases cortisol and boosts self-esteem.
2. SET REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS
Ditch perfection and choose progress. Your brain’s reward system releases dopamine when you complete tasks—not when you chase goals. Simplify your to-do list to what really matters, and let go of the rest.
3. PRIORITIZE TASKS WITH INTENTION
Ask yourself, What’s a must? Overcommitting floods your system with stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. Choosing a few meaningful commitments instead keeps your body regulated and your mind at ease.
4. SAY “NO” WITH CONFIDENCE
Saying no doesn’t make you unkind—it makes you clear. Research in assertiveness training shows that confident communication activates calm neural pathways, while people-pleasing keeps the brain in chronic stress mode. Protect your peace by declining commitments that don’t align with your goals or values.
In our fast-paced digital world, it’s easy to feel FOMO—the fear of missing out. Instead, try JOMO: the joy of missing out. Creating space for rest and reflection gives you back your agency, and choice is powerful.
5. COMMUNICATE WHEN BOUNDARIES ARE CROSSED
Boundaries aren’t walls—they’re bridges for healthy connection. When someone steps over yours, address it calmly. Try: “I prefer to talk about this another time,” or “I appreciate your interest, but I’m not discussing that right now.” Direct communication helps both parties stay regulated and respected.
CONTINUED >
6. USE THE “FLIP THE SCRIPT” METHOD
This one’s a favorite—like giving yourself a high-five when you see how well it works. When the dinner table questions start (“Have you found a new job yet?” “Why aren’t you married?” “Are you ever having kids?”), take a deep breath and respond: “Thanks for asking! What’s new and good with you?”
This small redirect activates empathy circuits in the brain, shifting tension to connection. Suddenly, Aunt Sally is telling you all about her cruise to Alaska, and you’re no longer discussing the china pattern for your fantasy wedding registry.
7. HONOR YOUR TIME FIERCELY
Time is your most valuable resource. Research shows that time scarcity increases stress more than money scarcity. Schedule downtime like an appointment. You can’t show up for others—or “fa la la” anything—if you’re running on fumes.
8. PRACTICE SELF-REGULATION
It doesn’t take long to reset your nervous system. Try deep breathing, gentle humming or singing to activate the vagus nerve—your body’s calm-response system. To give your amygdala the ultimate hug, try a slow, rhythmic touch on your hands, arms or face while thinking of something pleasant.
This neuroscience-based method, called Havening Techniques, gently rewires the brain and can be self-applied.
9. BE CONSISTENT WITH YOUR BOUNDARIES
Consistency trains both your brain and others to trust your limits. Over time, this reduces conflict and builds emotional resilience. Remember: Boundaries are an act of self-respect that ripple outward. Everyone benefits from a calmer, more grounded you.
10. BE KIND TO YOUR MIND
Stress is inevitable. Suffering is optional. Hit the emotional reset button when you feel overwhelmed. Go for a walk, step outside for fresh air or excuse yourself for a few minutes of quiet. Your brain—and your future self—will thank you.
Healthy boundaries aren’t about keeping people out. They’re about letting peace in.
So this holiday season, before you pour another cup for someone else, check yours first—and refill as needed. A regulated nervous system is the gift that keeps on giving.
About Hilary Russo
Hilary Russo is a Bergen County-based trauma-informed holistic practitioner, health coach, journalist, international speaker and author. She is one of only 50 certified Havening Techniques trainers worldwide and a certified practitioner of this neuroscience-based method. With a background in media and the military, Russo brings first-hand insight to her work with clients facing secondary trauma, stress and burnout. Her globally toprated podcast, HIListically Speaking (top 1.5%), features inspiring conversations with leading voices in holistic health, wellness and neuroscience.
Connect with Hilary at hilaryrusso.com or on social media @hilaryrusso.
Hilary Russo
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY INTERCONTINENTAL BOSTON
Pack the car, grab your besties, and let the no fuss weekend unfold.
A Very Boston
Holiday
Want the weekend escape without dealing with the airport? Forget TSA lines and lost luggage — this trip is trunk-packed, playlist-ready and friendship-fueled. For us, the perfect girls’ getaway was Boston — a drive-in, park-it escape with waterfront views, spa time we could actually sneak away to and dinner just an elevator ride from our room.
FRIDAY ARRIVAL: CHAMPAGNE O’CLOCK
We rolled in on a Friday and checked into the InterContinental Boston on the waterfront, a stay that feels equal parts glam and cozy. The hotel sits between Fort Point Channel and the Rose Kennedy Greenway, giving us water on one side, city on the other and Seaport shops just a short walk away. We parked the car and didn’t need it again.
Step one of any girls’ trip? Kick off the heels, pop some bubbly and start plotting outfits no one will actually wear.
Rooms were bright and chic, with floor-to-ceiling windows and marble soaking tubs — the kind you’ll be texting your group chat about when the weather turns gray back home. Room service made it easy to call it an early night, ordering dessert in robes while catching up on stories we were “saving for the trip.”
WALK, TALK, SHOP, REPEAT
Our rhythm was effortless: walk, eat, talk, repeat. We strolled the Greenway, ducked into stores when the wind picked up and saved our energy for the evenings.
Night one, we kept it simple but celebratory. Matria, the hotel’s Piedmont-inspired restaurant, served up pasta worth writing home about. After, we lingered over espresso martinis at Bar Fellini — because girls’ trips always require at least one signature drink moment.
THE SPA PACT
Here’s the move everyone loved: a midafternoon sneak-away to the spa. Massages, facials — even just the quiet — were enough to reset us for round two of late-night laughs. A float in the indoor pool made us feel like kids again, while the 24/7 fitness center, complete with Pelotons, appealed to the friend training for a marathon who insists balance means one sweat for every pastry (from Mike’s, of course).
If you’re rolling in with your girls, book spa appointments in advance. Whether you opt for a group reset or a solo escape, it’s the kind of indulgence that makes a girls’ weekend feel next level.
SATURDAY GLOW AND CITY LIGHTS
Boston in December does the rest — twinkling lights, chilly streets that justify a third coffee stop and window glow that begged for group selfies. Breakfast was quick — coffee, something hot, something sweet to split — before we wandered the Harborwalk until our cheeks stung.
That’s the beauty of this getaway: no rigid itineraries, just a flow that lets laughter fill the gaps.
WHY IT WORKED
Location and options made this the ultimate girls’ trip. From the InterContinental, we could reach Seaport, downtown and the Greenway on foot, pivoting with weather and mood. No overthinking, no Uber spreadsheets, no stress.
Our group’s rules of the weekend: window-shop, find soup, book the spa.
IF YOU GO
• Arrive, park, exhale. You won’t need the car again.
• Book the spa early — holiday weekends fill up fast.
• Plan one dress-up night. Matria is perfect, and on-site makes it easy.
• Swimsuit and real coat — indoor pool for warmth, big coat for wind.
We drove home with clear heads, sore cheeks from laughing and camera rolls full of city lights, pasta and “one more selfie.” Turns out the perfect girls’ getaway didn’t require passports or crazy planning — just a good home base, friends who get you and time carved out for connection (and maybe one too many espresso martinis).
We drove home with clear heads, sore cheeks from laughing and camera rolls full of city lights, pasta and “one more selfie.” Honestly, that’s the best part of a girls’ weekend — piling into a car with your gal pals, leaving the chaos at home for a bit and turning a simple, low-stress escape into a core memory.
INTERCONTINENTAL BOSTON BY IHG
Address: 510 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02210
Phone: (617) 747-1000
Website: ihg.com/intercontinental
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE
A sweet family recipe perfect for gifting, snacking, and spreading holiday magic!
The holidays are all about togetherness, laughter and a little sugar-induced happiness. Few things capture that spirit better than baking cookies, filling the house with irresistible aromas and sharing sweet treats with neighbors, friends and family.
These festive sugar cookies are soft, chewy and covered in colorful sprinkles — perfect for gift-giving or sneaky bites straight from the cookie jar.
INGREDIENTS
COOKIES:
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra holiday flair)
• 3 to 4 tablespoons milk
• Colored sprinkles or sanding sugar for decorating
ICING:
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional)
SPRINKLE JOY: HOLIDAY SUGAR COOKIES TO SHARE THE CHEER
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Heat oven to 375 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla and almond extract.
4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until a soft dough forms.
5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then roll in sprinkles. Place 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
6. Flatten slightly with a glass or your hand. Bake 8 to 10 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. For icing, whisk powdered sugar, milk and vanilla until smooth. Divide and tint with food coloring, if desired.
8. Decorate cookies as desired with icing and extra sprinkles.
PRO TIP:
Use cookie cutters for stars, trees, or candy canes to make them extra festive.
Perfect for gifting in tins, wrapping in cellophane with a ribbon, or sneaking a few bites while sipping hot cocoa.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, FOLLOW @GARDENSTATECITYLIFESTYLE ON SOCIALS!
Gina Falco | Owner
This December, let your home shine as bright as the season itself with custom window treatments that blend style, comfort, and function Budget Blinds helps you create a warm, inviting space that’s perfect for every joyful holiday moment
THE LITTLE RED TRUCK THAT COULD
‘RUBY RAY’ ROLLS INTO THE HOLIDAYS, BRINGING FRANKLIN LAKES TOGETHER
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA ROGERS
- TINY HEARTS PHOTOGRAPHY
The gleam of a 1955 Ford F-100 in bright red has become a familiar sight around Bergen County each holiday season. Families pile in for photos, kids climb onto the running boards, and parents and photographers capture keepsakes they’ll revisit for years. The truck has a name— Ruby Ray—and a story rooted in family, community and remembrance.
Nick Vetterlein showcasing Vetter Vintage Taps
Owner Nick Vetterlein moved to Franklin Lakes in 2020. He and his wife, Paige, are raising two young children—Wyatt, 3, and Chloe, 2—whom Vetterlein affectionately calls “Irish twins.” The truck, he says, helped them quickly feel at home.
“Life has been hectic, but this truck, Ruby Ray, has really made us feel one with the community,” Vetterlein says. “We’ve met so many local photographers and families at photo shoots, and it’s amazing to be part of their lives and build memories for their kids that last a lifetime.”
Vetterlein, who has lived across Bergen County—including Upper Saddle River, Ramsey, Allendale and Midland Park— restores vintage vehicles as a side hustle. When he finally had enough saved to pursue a dream he’d held for years, he found a worn F-100 on Facebook Marketplace in New Hampshire. He and Paige rented a trailer and drove through snow to bring it home. The truck arrived baby blue, with rust on the fenders, cab corners and floorboards. Bit by bit, Vetterlein rebuilt it.
When it came time to paint, red was an easy choice. “My favorite color is red, and both of my babies’ birthstones are ruby, so it was very fitting,” he says. The name carried a deeper meaning.
Vetterlein’s father, Ray—his “hero” and “best friend”— fell ill while Paige was expecting Chloe. The family coordinated so Ray could meet his granddaughter in the hospital. He did, holding her shortly after she was born. He died days later. The truck became Ruby Ray in his honor; another truck Vetterlein rents for events is aptly named Rebel Ray.
The holiday season underscores that legacy. Vetterlein says more than 25 photographers have booked sessions with the truck this year. “I love seeing the kids’ faces when they see the old red truck and get to sit inside it and get their pictures taken,” he says. “Truly special.”
“Life has been hectic, but this truck ‘Ruby Ray’ has really made us feel one with the community.”
Traditions thread through the story. Vetterlein, the youngest of five, remembers his father dressing as Santa and arriving with a sack of gifts for the grandchildren. After Ray’s passing, the family created new rituals.
“It’s seeing the smile on Wyatt and Chloe’s faces when they wake up, run downstairs and open their presents,” he says, noting that his sister now dresses as Mrs. Claus to surprise Wyatt, who is “obsessed with Santa.”
CONTINUED >
—NICK VETTERLEIN
The Vetterlein Family
Vetter Vintage Taps: Now Serving Toms River Brewing’s Stick Toss Kölsch-Style Ale, the official beer partnership of the New Jersey Devils.
On quieter days, you might find Vetterlein hunting parts at local junkyards or out with the family at Abma’s Farm or Wall Athletics gym in Oakland. Ask him to sum up his household in three words, and he doesn’t hesitate: “Loyal, beautiful, strong.” Ask what’s on the truck’s playlist, and he’ll cue up James Taylor’s “Fire and Rain,” his father’s song.
Vetterlein is now expanding beyond photo shoots with Vetter Vintage Taps, a mobile bar that can pull up to nearly any event and pour beer, wine, hard seltzer, coffee and nonalcoholic options. Think weddings, country clubs, corporate events, block parties, food festivals and backyard celebrations. When he gets a say in what’s flowing, his current favorite is on deck: Toms River Brewing’s Stick Toss KölschStyle Ale, the official beer partnership of the New Jersey Devils.
What began as a restoration project is now a community staple—a rolling backdrop for holiday portraits and hometown moments that outlast a season. For Vetterlein, it’s also a way to keep his father’s presence close. Ruby Ray isn’t just a photo op; it’s a memory maker.
Follow along or inquire about sessions on Instagram at @VetterVintage_Rentals.
Toms River Brewing Instagram: @tomsriverbeer
Hair: Bella Bonder Instagram: @bellabcreations
Makeup: Olga Shikhris Instagram: @olgasfacesmua
Wyatt and Chloe
Paige and Nick Vetterlein
“MY FAVORITE COLOR IS RED, AND BOTH OF MY BABIES’ BIRTHSTONES ARE RUBY, SO IT WAS VERY FITTING.”
—NICK VETTERLEIN
‘Ruby Ray’
ARTICLE BY ALLISON K. LIM
GIFTS THAT GO BEYOND THE BOX
The search for the perfect holiday gift can take you to the mall, an Amazon search bar or Google—and often ends with last-minute hints from friends’ shopping successes. But no one knows your special someone better than you. This season, instead of a new tool for Dad, a kitchen gadget for Grandma or clothes for your teen—which may end up in the return pile—try these inventive ideas. Customize them to suit everyone on your list.
Refresh & renew
Create a gift basket with favorite stress relievers—bath salts, a cozy blanket, slippers, herbal teas and dark chocolate. Top it off with a gift certificate for two to a salt room. A relaxing day is even better when shared.
Get growing
Winter can be dreary, so bring life indoors. Gather gardening gloves; one large planter or several smaller ones with drainage holes; organic potting soil; and herb seeds such as basil, thyme and oregano.
Feeling adventurous? Try mustard greens, which mature from seed in about 40 days, or micro tomatoes such as Tiny Tim, which mature in about 60 days. Include care instructions: place pots in a sunny spot and water three times a week, or when the soil feels dry. Add custom plant labels so your giftee knows what to expect.
Teen tour
Start by taking inventory of what your teen loves. Basketball? Visit the NBA Store in New York City, grab a quick bite and catch a Knicks or Nets game— you might earn parent of the year.
More of a theater fan? Score tickets to a Broadway or off-Broadway matinee and spend the day exploring the city—ice skating in Bryant Park, shopping at the Winter Village, museum hopping or walking the High Line. End with a drive through Dyker Heights in Brooklyn to see the world-famous holiday lights.
Bonus: This gift to your teen is also a gift to you. When was the last time you spent the entire day together?
Something old, something new
Sometimes the best gifts are hiding in plain sight.
If your kids love dress-up, create a playroom zone with a hanging bar for costumes, a mirror and a storage bench filled with cowboy hats, princess shoes and other accessories.
Have a little car enthusiast? Build a miniature parking garage using a wooden spice rack. Spray-paint it, hang it on the wall, add a sign and fill it with toy cars. They’ll be racing in no time.
Presence over presents
While it’s fun to have something to unwrap, the best gift is your presence.
Make memories your loved ones will treasure—build a pillow fort with your kids, take your parents to lunch or create a keepsake such as a family recipe book or photo album. For the cherry on top, do it all without looking at your phone.
Giving someone your undivided attention beats anything you can buy this holiday season.
About the Writer
Allison K. Lim is a Bergen County–based writer and editor with 19 years’ experience in print and digital media. Detailand deadline-driven, she blends polished storytelling with proven leadership from professional roles and local community volunteer work in Ho-Ho-Kus.
Something Old, Something New
Teen Tour
Presence Over Presents
Allison K Lim
MERRY & BRIGHT
IN THE RAMAPO VALLEY
Festive parades, glowing displays and local traditions to enjoy this holiday season
ARTICLE BY GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY BERGEN COUNTY ZOO, MAHWAH TWP
The holiday season in Bergen County brings twinkling lights, community traditions and family-friendly fun. From tree lightings to shopping strolls, Franklin Lakes, Mahwah, Wyckoff and Oakland—plus nearby towns— offer plenty of ways to celebrate.
Franklin Lakes hosts its annual holiday tree lighting at Borough Hall in early December, with caroling, hot cocoa and visits from Santa. Families can also enjoy the Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve in winter, where walking trails make for a peaceful seasonal stroll before a warm drink at nearby cafés.
Mahwah will host its Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, at Commodore Perry Field. The celebration includes the arrival of Santa, holiday music and family activities. For more information, visit mahwahtwp.org .
Wyckoff is known for community spirit during the holidays. The annual Wyckoff YMCA tree lighting features music, performances and a visit from Santa. The James A. McFaul Environmental Center becomes a quiet winter retreat, where families can spot seasonal wildlife along snowy trails. Shoppers can browse unique gifts at small businesses, many of which take part in “shop local” promotions throughout December.
Franklin Lakes Tree Lighting
Mahwah Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting
Let It Glow! A Holiday Lantern Spectacular
PARAMUS
Families can enjoy “Let It Glow! A Holiday Lantern Spectacular” at the Bergen County Zoo in Van Saun Park, running through Jan. 12, 2025. The event features hundreds of handcrafted lanterns illuminating the park in a dazzling walk-through.
BUT WAIT... THERE’S MORE!
Many Bergen Country communities hold annual tree lightings and other celebrations, though official 2025 dates have not yet been posted. Check municipal websites and community calendars for updates.
Seasonal favorites
OAKLAND
Oakland’s celebrations center on downtown, where the tree lighting on Ramapo Valley Road kicks off the season. Local churches and civic groups often organize concerts, toy drives and craft fairs. The Oakland Public Library offers family programs with winter themes, while Ramapo Mountain State Forest provides a scenic backdrop for holiday hikes.
Beyond marquee events, explore festive small businesses, sip cocoa at local cafés or take a winter hike in Ramapo Mountain State Forest. Garden centers across the region, including in Wyckoff and Franklin Lakes, offer fresh trees, wreaths and holiday décor to brighten homes for the season.
From Mahwah’s parade to Paramus’ glowing lanterns, Bergen County offers many ways to gather and celebrate. As more 2025 dates are posted, families will have even more options to make the holidays merry and bright.
For more holiday fun ideas, follow @GardenStateCityLifestyle on socials!
bright ways to celebrate Hanukkah
Eight Nights of Light, Bergen County Style
Hanukkah brings eight nights of light, music and togetherness—plenty of chances to make new traditions while honoring old ones. Whether you’re celebrating at home or exploring Bergen County, here are family-friendly ways to keep the candles (and spirits) glowing.
HOST A LATKE BAKE-OFF.
Turn your kitchen into a test kitchen. Assign teams—classic potato, sweet potato, zucchini—then hold a blind taste test with simple scorecards. Let kids mix, flip and tally votes. Round it out with applesauce and sour cream, plus a “chef’s table” for toppings such as chives, smoked salmon or everything seasoning.
START
A GIVING NIGHT.
Dedicate one night to tzedakah. Have children choose a local cause—animal rescues, food pantries or senior centers. Create “mitzvah coupons” kids can cash in for acts of service: helping a neighbor shovel, delivering canned goods, or writing thank-you notes to teachers and first responders.
MAKE YOUR MENORAH A
CRAFT PROJECT.
Gather for a creative session: air-dry clay, painted pebbles from a park walk, or a safe wooden base decorated with pinecones and winter greens for a Bergen-inspired touch. Use nonflammable materials and place candles in secure, proper holders.
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
TAKE A GLOW STROLL.
After candle lighting, bundle up for an evening stroll through Ridgewood, Englewood or Westwood’s downtown displays. Turn it into a scavenger hunt—find a Star of David, a blue-and-white window, a menorah, a dreidel—and snap a family photo under the twinkling lights.
THROW A DREIDEL TOURNAMENT.
Set up round-robin matches with chocolate gelt or pennies as chips. Post a bracket on poster board and teach younger kids the Hebrew letters and what each spin means. Keep energy up with short rounds, snack breaks and a champion’s ribbon.
TRY A SUFGANIYOT BAR.
Short on time? Buy plain doughnuts and set out fillings and glazes—raspberry jam, lemon curd, chocolate or vanilla—plus sprinkles. For a homemade touch, let kids pipe in filling with zip-top bags. Pair with hot cocoa for a cozy dessert night.
CUE THE MUSIC AND STORIES.
Create a Hanukkah playlist that spans traditional melodies and modern hits. Add a story circle: grandparents share memories from past holidays, kids read picture books aloud, and everyone contributes one “miracle moment” from the year—big or small.
FIND THE COMMUNITY LIGHT.
Public menorah lightings and family events pop up across Bergen County each season—from Tenafly and Paramus to Franklin Lakes and Hackensack. Check local synagogues, community centers and town calendars for outdoor lightings, craft hours and concerts. Many gatherings are open to all and include songs, treats and photo ops.
MAKE IT YOURS: AN EIGHT-NIGHT PLAN.
Keep momentum with a simple theme each night—Light, Gratitude, Creativity, Community, Play, Story, Flavor, Joy. Tape the list to the fridge and let kids help plan. One night might be a family game marathon; another could be a movie with a blue-and-white snack board; another a snowy walk through town before bedtime.
SAFETY FIRST.
Place menorahs on a stable, nonflammable surface away from curtains and drafts. Supervise children around open flames, keep pets clear, and never leave candles unattended.
LOCAL FLAVOR, LOW PRESSURE.
Prefer to stay close to home? Pick one evening for a Bergeninspired dinner: latkes alongside roasted salmon and a winter citrus salad, with sea-salt caramel sufganiyot for dessert. For a quick outing, pair candle lighting with a walk through your favorite downtown and cocoa to go.
Hanukkah’s heart is simple: gather, light and share. Whether you’re spinning dreidels, baking latkes or watching candles flicker against the snow, Bergen County offers a beautiful backdrop—and your traditions make it shine. Chag sameach!
For more holiday ideas, follow @GardenStateCityLifestyle on social media.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
THROUGHOUT DECEMBER
Santa Visits the Holiday Train Display
Mahwah Museum, Mahwah
Visit the Mahwah museum’s annual holiday train exhibition, where families can enjoy festive displays and a special appearance by Santa Claus for photos and fun.
DECEMBER 6TH
Mansion Ave Holiday Market
Mansion Ave, Ramsey | 10:00 AM
Shop the community holiday market featuring local vendors, handmade crafts and unique gifts. Enjoy festive treats, cheerful music and a joyful small-town holiday atmosphere.
DECEMBER 7TH
Mahwah Winter Fest Parade & Holiday Tree Lighting
Mahwah, NJ (Parade route and Commodore Perry Field)
Celebrate Mahwah’s winter festival in early December with a festive parade, community tree lighting, holiday music and family fun.
DECEMBER 9TH
Women, Wellness, & Wine Event in Bergen County
535 East Crescent Ave, Ramsey | 6:30 PM
Discover expert insights on managing menopause, weight gain, stress and more. Join Town & Country Compounding for an informative session on vitamins, supplements and prescription options to support women’s health, prevention and lifelong wellness. Sign up at tccompound.com/events
DECEMBER 13TH
Brunch with Santa
180 NJ 17, Mahwah | 10:30 AM
Enjoy a festive brunch with Santa at Booyah Restaurant & Bar in Mahwah, featuring food, photos and family fun.
DECEMBER 14TH
“The Real Housewives of New Jersey: Early American Women & Their Kitchen Gardens”
Mahwah Museum, Mahwah | 2:00 PM
Explore a lecture or exhibit highlighting early women’s roles through the lens of historical kitchen gardens in a local context.
