By Downtown Freehold
Bring your “wish” list and your appetite to The American Hotel’s famous Sunday Brunch with Santa! Enjoy their brunch specialties and get a photo taken with Santa. The event takes place on Sundays, Dec. 1, 8, 15 and 22 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Reservations Required: (732) 431-3220.
The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is happening on Dec. 3 at 5 p.m. Downtown Freehold has served as a central gathering place for Western Monmouth County for over a century and our town square in front of the Hall of Records has hosted the Christmas Tree for many years. This occasion is for everyone to appreciate the kick-off of the holiday season. Families can come to town for a bite to eat at any of our cherished eateries and then join us to celebrate with the company of the Rock and Roll Choir who will be performing a timeless holiday show. We’ve heard from the Fire Department who told us there will be a very special guest visiting that evening so the children in attendance can have a photo taken in front of the Christmas tree bedecked with ornaments and lights. The Court Jester crew will be there to keep everyone filled with Christmas cheer and hot apple cider which they will provide for all our visitors. This is a beautiful holiday event for all to attend and adore.
The Eddie Testa Christmas Party is already Sold Out… DowntownFreehold.com began this holiday bash last season with Eddie Testa so it is back by popular demand! Dance the night away and sing along with your friends at the American Hotel on Dec. 6. Ticket holders are encouraged to bring a toy to donate to the Policemen Benevolent Association Annual Toy Drive sponsored by Shore Luxury Limo, DowntownFreehold.com and the Freehold Rotary Club, but you don’t have to attend this event to donate. There are donation barrels for the toy drive in shops throughout town so bring a toy with you next time you visit downtown and help the police department collection this holiday season.
DowntownFreehold.com’s Jolly Trolley produced in association with Shore Luxury Limo and the Howell High School Drama Club is an approximately 45-minute tour of Freehold Borough at the most wonderful time of the year. Throughout the tour skits are performed at various stops which bring life to the history of Freehold and what may have happened on a winter night nearly 100 years ago. The Jolly Trolley can be a festive night to take your sweetheart to after a night on the town, or to get together with friends, or fun for the whole family! Join us for this signature holiday happening Dec. 13 and 14, tickets will be available on our website store page but act fast because seats are limited.
Breakfast with Santa at Sweet Lew’s Café is on Saturday, December 14, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This is a classic experience for children to enjoy a memorable interaction with Mr. Kringle himself. Reservations Required: (732) 308-1887.
On Dec. 19, beginning at 6 p.m., there will be a group of Carolers strolling the streets Downtown serenading our patrons with the wonderful songs of the season.
The Annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony takes place on Dec. 30 at 5 p.m. in front of the Hall of Records. Join Rabbi Nathan Langer for a holiday prayer/blessing and enjoy a hot latke provided by Metropolitan Café or play dreidel at the DowntownFreehold.com table.
After the Holidays keep an eye out for our new fundraising events Showcase @ The Hotel, these are ticketed events with various themes for people to have a fun night out and something to look forward to each month. The Showcase offers special menus for the evening and the option for early entry with VIP access. Jan. 25, 2025 is Showcase @ The Hotel: Dance Party featuring Mission Dance and DJ Joe Kahwaty at the American Hotel. So, grab your partner to feel that spark on the dance floor and the rhythm at your feet or gather the gals for a ladies night with high spirits and heart rates. Whoever you invite with you, spread the word about this great opportunity to support all the lovely things that happen downtown. After the Dance Party, the next upcoming Showcase @ The Hotel: Mardi Gras will feature the Gumbo Gumbas on Feb. 28, 2025, then Dueling Pianos featuring Tony T. and Wildman Joe on April 11, 2025. Tickets are available at DowntownFreehold.com/Store so act now during early access pricing. — 07728
