Cape May, New Jersey, is a charming beach town that transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Each year, the town hosts a variety of festive events and activities that make it an ideal destination for a Christmas getaway. From traditional holiday celebrations to unique and quirky events, there's something for everyone in Cape May during the Christmas season.
Located at the southern tip of New Jersey, Cape May is easily accessible by car, bus, or train, making it a convenient destination for a day trip or a longer vacation. The town's picturesque streets, beautiful beaches, and historic architecture provide a picturesque backdrop for the holiday festivities.
Whether you're looking for a fun and festive atmosphere, unique shopping opportunities, or simply a chance to relax and enjoy the holiday season, Cape May has something to offer. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the top Christmas events and activities in Cape May, as well as provide some tips and recommendations for making the most of your holiday visit.
Cape May Christmas Events
Cape May hosts a wide range of Christmas events and activities throughout the holiday season. Here are some of the top events to look out for:
Cape May Christmas Parade
The Cape May Christmas Parade is a beloved holiday tradition that takes place on the first Saturday in December. The parade features festive floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus. The parade route runs along Beach Avenue, starting at the intersection with Franklin Street and ending at the Cape May Convention Hall.
Cape May Christmas Tree Lighting
The Cape May Christmas Tree Lighting is a heartwarming holiday tradition that takes place on the first Friday in December. The ceremony features the lighting of the town's official Christmas tree, as well as festive music, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa Claus.
Santa's Workshop
Santa's Workshop is a fun and interactive holiday event that takes place at the Cape May Convention Hall. Kids can meet Santa Claus, make crafts, and enjoy holiday treats. The event also features a holiday market with local vendors selling unique gifts and decorations.
Shopping in Cape May
Cape May is a shopper's paradise, with a wide range of unique boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores. During the holiday season, the town's shops are filled with festive decorations and holiday gifts. Here are some of the top shopping destinations in Cape May:
The Washington Street Mall
The Washington Street Mall is a pedestrian shopping street lined with unique boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. The mall is decorated with festive lights and decorations during the holiday season, making it a fun and festive place to shop.
Cape May Christmas Market
The Cape May Christmas Market is a holiday shopping event that takes place at the Cape May Convention Hall. The market features local vendors selling unique gifts, decorations, and holiday treats.
Dining in Cape May
Cape May is known for its excellent dining scene, with a wide range of restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to traditional holiday cuisine. Here are some of the top dining destinations in Cape May:
The Blue Pig Tavern
The Blue Pig Tavern is a cozy restaurant located in the historic Congress Hall hotel. The restaurant serves traditional American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and holiday specials.
The Lobster House
The Lobster House is a seafood restaurant located on the waterfront in Cape May. The restaurant serves fresh seafood, including lobster, crab, and fish, as well as traditional holiday dishes.
Accommodations in Cape May
Cape May has a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the top hotels and bed and breakfasts in Cape May:
Congress Hall
Congress Hall is a historic hotel located in the heart of Cape May. The hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and restaurant.
The Beach Shack
The Beach Shack is a beachfront hotel located in Cape May. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as a range of amenities, including a pool, restaurant, and bar.
Tips and Recommendations
Here are some tips and recommendations for making the most of your holiday visit to Cape May:
- Plan ahead: Book your accommodations and popular restaurants well in advance, as Cape May can get busy during the holiday season.
- Dress warmly: Cape May can be chilly during the winter months, so be sure to pack warm clothing, including coats, hats, and gloves.
- Take advantage of holiday specials: Many of Cape May's restaurants and shops offer special holiday deals and discounts, so be sure to take advantage of these.
- Get into the holiday spirit: Cape May is a festive and fun destination during the holiday season, so be sure to get into the holiday spirit by attending events, shopping, and enjoying the town's decorations and atmosphere.
We hope this guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of Cape May's Christmas events, shopping, dining, and accommodations. Whether you're looking for a fun and festive atmosphere, unique shopping opportunities, or simply a chance to relax and enjoy the holiday season, Cape May has something to offer.
Now it's your turn! Share your favorite Cape May Christmas events, shopping destinations, and dining spots in the comments below. And don't forget to share this article with your friends and family who love Christmas and Cape May as much as you do!
What is the best time to visit Cape May during the holiday season?
+The best time to visit Cape May during the holiday season is in December, when the town is decorated with festive lights and decorations, and there are a wide range of holiday events and activities to enjoy.
What are some popular holiday events in Cape May?
+Some popular holiday events in Cape May include the Cape May Christmas Parade, the Cape May Christmas Tree Lighting, and Santa's Workshop.
Where can I find unique holiday gifts in Cape May?
+Cape May has a wide range of unique boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores that sell holiday gifts and decorations. Some popular shopping destinations include the Washington Street Mall and the Cape May Christmas Market.