My 2026-2027 New Jersey Winter Bucket List❄️🎄⛸️ E My 2026-2027 New Jersey Winter Bucket List❄️🎄⛸️
Even though NJ gets most of its hype for the summer season, there is still a ton to enjoy in the winter!
Here are some activities you can enjoy this holiday season and some through the whole winter.
1. Christmas With The Goats at The Bubbly Goat (Stockton - Hunterdon County, NJ)
Purchase tickets online. Available select dates between 11/21/26 to 1/3/27. Suitable for ages 8+.
2. Go to U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland at Holland Ridge Farms (Cream Ridge - Monmouth County, NJ)
Purchase tickets online. Open 11/13/26 - 1/10/27.
3. Visit Congress Hall in December (Cape May, NJ)
Cape May as a whole is the most picturesque Christmas town in December, but Congress Hall really stands out. Enjoy the lit tree, festive decor, activities, train rides, and holiday market vendors. Free admission.
4. Go Ice Skating
There are many locations throughout the state offering skating this winter: Bergen County Winter Wonderland at Van Saun Park, Newport Skates in Jersey City, Renault Winery’s Vintner Wonderland in Egg Harbor City, WinterFest at Cooper River in Camden County, the Red Bank Armory (indoor option), & more.
5. Go Skiing at Mountain Creek (Vernon, NJ)
6. Spend a Winter Day in Princeton, NJ
7. Visit Beach Plum Farm in December
(West Cape May, NJ)
Super cute farm to walk around and check out the market store.
8. Visit a NJ Downtown with Holiday Vibes: Sparta, Haddonfield, Red Bank, Ridgewood, Cape May, Morristown, Clinton, Maplewood, Lambertville, & more.
9. Visit Historic Smithville in December for festive holiday vibes
(Atlantic County, NJ)
It’s free to walk around the village. Enjoy access to a ton of cute shops & festive photo-ops.
10. Visit a Local Art Museum
The Princeton University Art Museum is highly rated, and will pair nicely with a winter day in Princeton.
11. Enjoy a Hike or Walk at a NJ-Local State or County Park
12. Enjoy a Winter Sunset at the Beach
13. Go to a NJ Devils Game
(Prudential Center, Newark, NJ)
Happy holidays, & don’t forget to follow @lifestylejessica for fun things to do in & around NJ & the Northeast!
#newjersey #nj #winteractivities #njthingstodo #explorenj
New fav date North Jersey night spot unlocked🍝 📍S New fav date North Jersey night spot unlocked🍝
📍Sapori, 9 Park St, Montclair, NJ
Dined here recently for their Couples Night special event and thoroughly enjoyed every bite of food we had!!
The Spicy Vodka Chicken Parm is a must-order!! Not too spicy and SO delicious and tender!
Sapori offers a variety of special events throughout the month, and their regular menu is fantastic!🔥
Happy dining! Don’t forget to follow @lifestylejessica for the best places to go in & around NJ!
#newjersey #northjersey #montclairnj #njeats #njrestaurants
New Fast-Casual Shawarma Restaurant in Bergen Coun New Fast-Casual Shawarma Restaurant in Bergen County, NJ!🥙😋
📍Mamush Shawarma Bar, 52 E Palisade Ave, Englewood, NJ @eat_mamush 
Everything we ate was full of flavor, fresh, and delicious!
They have wraps, pitas, and build-your-own bowls. Choose your meat or go for their freshly fried falafel, plus tons of yummy toppings and sauces!
#newjersey #bergencountynj #njeats #northjerseyeats #njrestaurants
This is my go-to jewelry store in Monmouth County, This is my go-to jewelry store in Monmouth County, NJ!✨💍
📍Allure Jewelry and Watches (Located in Bell Works - Holmdel, NJ)
Def follow @allurejewelryandwatches so you don’t miss out on their holiday deals and promos this season!🎁
Get an ADDITIONAL 10% OFF your already discounted diamond purchases when you shop in-store at Allure Jewelry and Watches now through 12/25/26! Just show this video and mention promo code LIFESTYLE JESSICA at checkout.
Don’t forget to save this video to keep it handy this holiday season!🎁🎄
If you’re looking for high-quality engagement rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, or watches, definitely check out Allure Jewelry and Watches!!
The owner is the sweetest, and they have a fantastic selection + great prices!
Happy holidays, & don’t forget to follow @lifestylejessica for the best holiday finds in & around New Jersey!
#monmouthcountynj #bellworks #holmdelnj #centraljersey #jewelrystore
🍜🛍️Had the most perfect day at @theshopsatriversid 🍜🛍️Had the most perfect day at @theshopsatriverside recently!! #itsasmallthing #sponsored
This mall literally has everything! You can take a workout class at Life Time, enjoy a relaxing massage or facial at The Fountain Spa, shop at the cutest stores like Free People, Anthropologie, J.Crew, and more, get a delicious dinner at one of their fantastic restaurants on-site, and even catch a movie at AMC.
Save this video for inspo for your next North Jersey mall day!
#newjersey #bergencountynj #theshopsatriverside
A trip to the mall isn’t the same without my speci A trip to the mall isn’t the same without my special someone and friends! @theshopsatriverside #itsasmallthing #sponsored
Love visiting The Shops at Riverside in Bergen County to shop, dine, and catch a movie!! We also LOVE Capon’s Chop House. Everything is so delicious here, and the service is fantastic!
#newjersey #bergencountynj #northjersey
November so far 🍂 Foliage has been peaking in Nor November so far 🍂
Foliage has been peaking in North Jersey recently! So glad I’ve had the opportunity to take it all in.
Also, had a fantastic dinner at @saporinj the other day, and can’t wait to share a vid about it soon🍝
#newjersey #northjersey #fall #fallfoliage #nj
Cape May is my favorite place to visit during the Cape May is my favorite place to visit during the holiday season!🎄❄️
The town is very charming, well-decorated, and super festive in December. It’s the perfect day or weekend trip in New Jersey if you want to get in the holiday spirit!
Congress Hall’s annual Winter Wonderland event will be held this year from November 27th to December 31st, and the tree lighting ceremony will be held on Friday, December 4th.
The holidays are around the corner. This is your sign to start planning your visit to Cape May!🎄
#newjersey #capemay #christmastown #nj #njthingstodo
Saturween adventures⚔️👑🌲 One of my fav last-min d Saturween adventures⚔️👑🌲
One of my fav last-min diy costumes we’ve done! After multiple trips to Michael’s and lots of sewing/painting, here’s the final result🙂
Crazy it’s November now. Is it time to start posting holiday season content now?👀
#halloween2026 #zelda #thelegendofzelda #halloweencostumes #couplescostume
  • Home
  • About
  • Work With Me
  • YouTube
  • Shop
    • My Etsy Shop
    • Shop my LTK Feed
  • About
  • Work With Me
  • YouTube
  • Shop
    • My Etsy Shop
    • Shop my LTK Feed
  • New Jersey
    • New Jersey Restaurants
    • New Jersey Places to Visit
  • Travel
    • Europe Travel
    • New England Travel
      • Vermont Travel
      • Massachusetts Travel
      • Rhode Island Travel
      • Maine Travel
    • New York Travel
      • New York City Travel
      • New York State Travel
    • Pennsylvania Travel
    • California Travel
    • Europe Travel
  • Lifestyle
    • Style
    • Healthy Living
    • At Home
  • Beauty
    • Skincare
    • Makeup
    • Nails

Lifestyle Jessica

  • New Jersey
    • New Jersey Places to Visit
    • New Jersey Restaurants
  • Travel
    • New England Travel
      • Vermont Travel
      • Massachusetts Travel
      • Rhode Island Travel
      • Maine Travel
    • New York Travel
      • New York City Travel
      • New York State Travel
    • Pennsylvania Travel
    • California Travel
    • Europe Travel
  • Lifestyle
    • Style
    • Healthy Living
    • At Home
  • Beauty
    • Skincare
    • Makeup
    • Nails

At Home, Lifestyle · October 16, 2021

Creating A Cozy Backyard for Fall

How to Create A Cozy Backyard for Fall

One of my favorite seasons is Fall; the crisp chill in the air, leaves changing color, jeans and sweater weather, fall hikes… Here in New Jersey, we truly get a true fall, and this is one of the best times of the year to soak up your outdoor space! Creating a cozy backyard for fall can be easier than you think. Here are a few ideas on how to prep your porch, patio or deck for this fall season and various decor essentials that will let you enjoy those crisp temperatures from sunrise to sunset.

Fire Pit Ideas

Gathering around a fire pit with family and friends is one of my favorite things to do on a crisp fall night. I love a good s’more and some story-telling. Using bricks or even a gorgeous copper bowl, you can have a fit pit that can let you sit, relax and enjoy quality time together. Having a fire pit is a great idea for those who want to create a fun and welcoming environment for neighbors and friends. With a fire pit, you can enjoy the warmth and coziness that it can bring to a gathering.

fire pit idea
Image: Onorato Landscaping
smores
Image: Giant Eagle

Speakers

One way to keep the fun going is to have speakers playing good music. I personally love the JBL speakers as they are small, waterproof, and project great sound. Speakers can also help lighten the mood for friends and family or get a fun gathering started with some dance music.

outdoor rug idea
Image: Rugs.com

Outdoor Rugs

I’m a sucker for aesthetic decor, but also basic essentials such as a simple outdoor rug. Having a rug can not only add a personal touch to your yard, but also lets your guests wipe their shoes before entering your home. These rugs are perfect for any type of weather outside. They can add color and softness to your space and really enhance that cozy feel. Besides placing a mat/rug outside your door entrance, setting one underneath your table and chairs is also a great touch. A large outdoor area rug is the perfect way to enhance the coziness of your patio or deck.

pumpkins carved
Carved pumpkins on patio ledge


Pumpkins

Your front doorstep isn’t the only place that can showcase your fresh picked pumpkins. Pumpkins and gourds on your patio, deck or porch is a festive way to add a pop of color and seasonality to your yard. Not a fan of real pumpkins or want to spice it up even more? Festive pillows are cushy and add a plush texture and a classic silhouette to your patio, deck and backyard. Adding outdoor pillows and throw blankets to your furniture can really amp up the coziness of your space. I also recommend having an outdoor chest to store these pillows during rainy days.

landscaping backyard patio idea
Image: Onorato Landscaping

Professional Help With Landscaping

If you aren’t sure how to get started, it might be wise to get professionals to help you with the difficult part. What is that you might ask? The landscaping. Onorato Landscaping is a trusted company in the northern New Jersey area. They offer a variety of services to help you build your dream yard. The business owners understand the value of quality commercial landscaping in Bergen County as well as hardscaping. When a prospective customer visits a commercial building, the first impressions might make all the difference. Who’s to say your personal backyard can’t also look manicured too? If you are in the Bergen County area, Onorato landscaping can help enhance your home’s beauty!

landscaping backyard idea
Image: Onorato Landscaping

Increase Accent Pieces

Similar to adding cozy pillows, chairs and rugs, you’ll want to have a few accent pieces to complete your living space. With the fresh crisp air and change of scenery, you’ll want to spend most of your time in this outdoor space. I suggest investing in a nice pitcher and glass set, some cute outdoor plates, or serving trays. Home Goods and Target have plenty of seasonal decor and kitchen items which are perfect for this final touch to your space!

There are definitely many ways you can spice up your backyard this fall season and make it cozy! Comment down below any other ideas you have to share!

In: At Home, Lifestyle

You’ll Also Love

How to do the Mirror Photoshoot Challenge: Taking Creative Photos Alone
tips for living alone5 Safety Tips for Living Alone
8 Ways To Make Your Backyard Cozy and Comfortable this Winter
Next Post >

How I Cleared My Cystic Under-The-Skin Acne: Adapalene Gel and Benzoyl Peroxide Treatment

Hi! So excited to have you here! My name's Jess and I'm a content creator based in New Jersey. Follow my socials to stay connected!

Follow My Socials

Categories

instagram

Follow @lifestylejessica

My 2026-2027 New Jersey Winter Bucket List❄️🎄⛸️ E My 2026-2027 New Jersey Winter Bucket List❄️🎄⛸️
Even though NJ gets most of its hype for the summer season, there is still a ton to enjoy in the winter!
Here are some activities you can enjoy this holiday season and some through the whole winter.
1. Christmas With The Goats at The Bubbly Goat (Stockton - Hunterdon County, NJ)
Purchase tickets online. Available select dates between 11/21/26 to 1/3/27. Suitable for ages 8+.
2. Go to U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland at Holland Ridge Farms (Cream Ridge - Monmouth County, NJ)
Purchase tickets online. Open 11/13/26 - 1/10/27.
3. Visit Congress Hall in December (Cape May, NJ)
Cape May as a whole is the most picturesque Christmas town in December, but Congress Hall really stands out. Enjoy the lit tree, festive decor, activities, train rides, and holiday market vendors. Free admission.
4. Go Ice Skating
There are many locations throughout the state offering skating this winter: Bergen County Winter Wonderland at Van Saun Park, Newport Skates in Jersey City, Renault Winery’s Vintner Wonderland in Egg Harbor City, WinterFest at Cooper River in Camden County, the Red Bank Armory (indoor option), & more.
5. Go Skiing at Mountain Creek (Vernon, NJ)
6. Spend a Winter Day in Princeton, NJ
7. Visit Beach Plum Farm in December
(West Cape May, NJ)
Super cute farm to walk around and check out the market store.
8. Visit a NJ Downtown with Holiday Vibes: Sparta, Haddonfield, Red Bank, Ridgewood, Cape May, Morristown, Clinton, Maplewood, Lambertville, & more.
9. Visit Historic Smithville in December for festive holiday vibes
(Atlantic County, NJ)
It’s free to walk around the village. Enjoy access to a ton of cute shops & festive photo-ops.
10. Visit a Local Art Museum
The Princeton University Art Museum is highly rated, and will pair nicely with a winter day in Princeton.
11. Enjoy a Hike or Walk at a NJ-Local State or County Park
12. Enjoy a Winter Sunset at the Beach
13. Go to a NJ Devils Game
(Prudential Center, Newark, NJ)
Happy holidays, & don’t forget to follow @lifestylejessica for fun things to do in & around NJ & the Northeast!
#newjersey #nj #winteractivities #njthingstodo #explorenj
New fav date North Jersey night spot unlocked🍝 📍S New fav date North Jersey night spot unlocked🍝
📍Sapori, 9 Park St, Montclair, NJ
Dined here recently for their Couples Night special event and thoroughly enjoyed every bite of food we had!!
The Spicy Vodka Chicken Parm is a must-order!! Not too spicy and SO delicious and tender!
Sapori offers a variety of special events throughout the month, and their regular menu is fantastic!🔥
Happy dining! Don’t forget to follow @lifestylejessica for the best places to go in & around NJ!
#newjersey #northjersey #montclairnj #njeats #njrestaurants
New Fast-Casual Shawarma Restaurant in Bergen Coun New Fast-Casual Shawarma Restaurant in Bergen County, NJ!🥙😋
📍Mamush Shawarma Bar, 52 E Palisade Ave, Englewood, NJ @eat_mamush 
Everything we ate was full of flavor, fresh, and delicious!
They have wraps, pitas, and build-your-own bowls. Choose your meat or go for their freshly fried falafel, plus tons of yummy toppings and sauces!
#newjersey #bergencountynj #njeats #northjerseyeats #njrestaurants
This is my go-to jewelry store in Monmouth County, This is my go-to jewelry store in Monmouth County, NJ!✨💍
📍Allure Jewelry and Watches (Located in Bell Works - Holmdel, NJ)
Def follow @allurejewelryandwatches so you don’t miss out on their holiday deals and promos this season!🎁
Get an ADDITIONAL 10% OFF your already discounted diamond purchases when you shop in-store at Allure Jewelry and Watches now through 12/25/26! Just show this video and mention promo code LIFESTYLE JESSICA at checkout.
Don’t forget to save this video to keep it handy this holiday season!🎁🎄
If you’re looking for high-quality engagement rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, or watches, definitely check out Allure Jewelry and Watches!!
The owner is the sweetest, and they have a fantastic selection + great prices!
Happy holidays, & don’t forget to follow @lifestylejessica for the best holiday finds in & around New Jersey!
#monmouthcountynj #bellworks #holmdelnj #centraljersey #jewelrystore
🍜🛍️Had the most perfect day at @theshopsatriversid 🍜🛍️Had the most perfect day at @theshopsatriverside recently!! #itsasmallthing #sponsored
This mall literally has everything! You can take a workout class at Life Time, enjoy a relaxing massage or facial at The Fountain Spa, shop at the cutest stores like Free People, Anthropologie, J.Crew, and more, get a delicious dinner at one of their fantastic restaurants on-site, and even catch a movie at AMC.
Save this video for inspo for your next North Jersey mall day!
#newjersey #bergencountynj #theshopsatriverside
A trip to the mall isn’t the same without my speci A trip to the mall isn’t the same without my special someone and friends! @theshopsatriverside #itsasmallthing #sponsored
Love visiting The Shops at Riverside in Bergen County to shop, dine, and catch a movie!! We also LOVE Capon’s Chop House. Everything is so delicious here, and the service is fantastic!
#newjersey #bergencountynj #northjersey

Categories

Copyright © 2026 Lifestyle Jessica · Theme by 17th Avenue