As the bleak and cold November days come to a close, the jolly and bright days of December finally arrive with Christmas Cheer! One of my favorite times of the year is the Christmas season.  The tons of Christmas Classics on SiriusXM and the Red Coffee Cups at Starbucks warm my heart in preparation for December 25^th.

Now you might ask, what are the best things to do during the Christmas Season in Morris County? One of the first things I do when the Christmas season arrives, is to get my tree at “The Farm” in Chatham, NJ. The Farm is particularly amazing during the Christmas Season and a treat for the senses. You will be surrounded by glimmering lights and bombarded with the smell of a Winter Camp Fire. The smell of pine trees and candy canes fills the air, as you ponder which tree to choose. I have always found my experiences to very fun at The Farm, and if you were wondering where the best place to get your tree, it is at The Farm.

After Christmas tree shopping, go to the Short Hills Mall. As I child I was often dragged forcibly to the mall for shopping, since I have two sisters, and (unfortunately) no brothers. However, as I got older, I always found the Mall to be amazing at Christmas. Each floor is fully dressed in garland and Christmas decorations, and the smell of Christmas candles and fresh clothes fill the air. If you are one who has young children, one of the most exciting experiences is a picture with Santa. Parents and youngsters line up for hours just to get a picture with Santa. So, I highly recommend you to either get there early or buy a Fast Pass! The Short Hills Mall has everything to offer, and is such a festive place during the Holiday Season.

Lastly, one of my favorite Christmas experiences is the Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve at St. Mary’s Abbey. I have been attending this mass since 7^th grade, and have served as an acolyte every year since. This mass is not only a beautiful event I have ever been to, but it is one of the most meaningful celebrations of the Mass I have witnessed. The smell of poinsettias and incense fill the air, as you are cascaded with the holy and majestic melodies of Catholic Christmas hymns. At the conclusion of the Mass, the Abbey is filled with the tune of “Hark the Herald Angel’s Sing”. This is one my favorite Christmas pastimes, and I have always will looked forward to it.

Now you know  the best place to buy a tree, get your presents, and even where to attend Mass during this Christmas Season! What more could one need? I hope I have given you some helpful hints as you progress in this Christmas Season, and I wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!