By Chris Park
(Graphic by Natalie Hsiao)
The holidays are approaching, and nothing makes people more excited about celebrating than winter festivals. In Ridgewood, there are several notable events, especially for folks who celebrate Christmas. Most of these events are organized by the Ridgewood Guild, a non-profit organization aimed to help make Ridgewood a better place, or the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce, an organization of businesses. The Village of Ridgewood, especially downtown Ridgewood, becomes a very festive and lighthearted place to enjoy the holidays. Now, without further ado, let’s embark on a trip to explore all the wonderful holiday traditions that Ridgewood has to offer!
Let’s start with the famous Downtown for the Holidays. Organized by the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce, as of 2025 Ridgewood is celebrating its 40th anniversary for this exciting event, with the notable tradition of lighting a Christmas tree. People can’t help but feel amazed when the tree lights up, imagining a fantasy world as they look into the dazzling lights. The tradition of lighting Christmas trees in towns around the U.S. and the world is common, yet there is a reason why so many folks flock to Van Neste just to see it lit every year. When the large Christmas tree is lit in Van Neste Square, it marks the start of the holiday season for many Ridgewood residents. Although tree-lighting ceremonies are held in towns across the country, this event remains a favorite in Ridgewood, drawing large crowds each year. One Ridgewood resident stated that “My heart flutters whenever I see the crowd of people lining up to look at the tree lighting. I think it’s great that people get out of their homes to experience this symbolic tradition.”
Another popular holiday tradition—especially for younger children—is meeting Santa Claus. Stories with Santa, hosted by the Ridgewood Newcomers Club, offers a festive opportunity for children to hear a holiday story read by Santa himself. Hosted at 1037 Hillcrest Road, Stories with Santa is held every year on a certain day in early December. The event encourages creativity and imagination, as children delight in the mystery of how Santa delivers gifts and prepares for Christmas with his elves.
The Holiday Show Concert at the Ridgewood Art Institute is yet another holiday event, allowing visitors to enjoy the holidays through the arts. Run by the Ridgewood Art Institute, it features live music in a cozy, artsy setting, this two-hour long concert brings out the tradition of a cozy, feel good holiday season filled with music. The concert also allows art to become a part of holiday celebrations, as guests can view the Holiday Show exhibition, with over 150 artworks on display.
From the tree lighting in Van Neste Square to stories read by Santa and holiday concerts at the Art Institute, these traditions are what make December in Ridgewood feel special. Each event gives families and friends a reason to gather, whether it’s downtown or at a local venue. As the holidays approach, Ridgewood becomes more than just a place to live—it becomes a place where people come together year after year. These celebrations remind residents why the holiday season is such a meaningful time in the community.