Seaside Heights to Begin New Tradition With Boardwalk Christmas Tree Lighting, Fireworks

Holidays in the Heights (Illustration)

The historic Dr. Floyd Moreland Carousel, now drawing a new generation of happy riders in its home at the Carousel Pavilion on the northern portion of the boardwalk, has become a focus point of the town and a tangible symbol of its resurgence as a family resort. With that in mind, officials and businesses are ready to begin a new tradition this weekend, lighting the borough’s Christmas tree with a a classic Jersey Shore celebration and an appearance from Santa Claus (with the help of the borough’s fire department).

The tree lighting and fireworks display will be held this Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024 as part of an entire day of festivities that kicks off at 12 noon with the opening of the carousel for rides until 4 p.m.

At 4:30 p.m., Mayor Anthony Vaz will officially kick off the ceremony, with Santa and Mrs. Claus arriving by firetruck at 4:50 p.m. The tree will be lit at 5 p.m., followed by the fireworks display. From then until 7 p.m., Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand for photographs and the carousel will begin to spin once again, open for rides.

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The Seaside Heights Carousel Pavilion, April 2022. (Photo: Daniel Nee)

The tree lighting ceremony is part of the town’s “Holidays in the Heights” celebration, which includes the participation of numerous businesses and boardwalk attractions. This weekend will also feature events at Hooks, Casino Pier and the Coin Castle arcade, all of which are detailed on the borough’s tourism website.