Times Square will be decorated for Christmas. Check out Rockefeller Center for the tree and ice skating! Please find an extensive list of fun things to do in the area below that we like doing. https://secretnyc.co/things-to-do-december-nyc/
Philadelphia will also have its own decorations and is fully of history. From visiting the liberty bell to touring independence hall, there are many fun things to do in Philly. Our favorite thing to do around Christmas is watch the Macy's Light show. (https://www.10best.com/destinations/pennsylvania/philadelphia/center-city/attractions/macys-holiday-light-show/). But no stop in Philly is complete without eating at Redding Terminal (https://readingterminalmarket.org/)
New Brunswick offers many attractions such as art museums, theaters and nearby parks. It is also the home of Rutgers.
If you are looking for good Indian food apart from the reception, Edison is filled with good local restaurants. Feel free to check it out for clothes, jewelry and other shops as well.