Big Santa Lighting at Garden State Plaza

Westfield Garden State Plaza in Paramus will kick off the holiday season with its annual Big Santa Lighting Celebration on Sunday, November 22, 2026. This popular Bergen County holiday tradition features live entertainment, family-friendly activities, Santa’s grand arrival, the lighting of the iconic Big Santa, and a fireworks finale.

Hosted by multi-platinum singer-songwriter Ryan Cabrera, this year’s celebration features live performances by All-4-One, TKA, Spice Wannabe, and Just Your Type, bringing a mix of nostalgic hits and new music to the holiday festivities.

Beginning at 4:00 pm, visitors can enjoy costumed characters, stilt walkers, food trucks, and dining options from Westfield Garden State Plaza eateries. Guests are encouraged to dress in their favorite nostalgic outfits or festive holiday attire.

The highlight of the evening comes when Santa arrives by fire truck for the countdown to the lighting of the shopping center’s iconic 42-foot Big Santa. The celebration concludes with a fireworks display synchronized to holiday music.

The event takes place at Westfield Garden State Plaza, near Entrance 7 in the parking lot by Nordstrom, One Garden State Plaza in Paramus, New Jersey. Find more information here.