We compiled every holiday event we could find into this handy list. Phew! There’s so much to do on the Cape during this time of year, it’s like a second summer. If we missed something, email chall@cmcherald.com – orange text is a hyperlink to the event page!
Avalon
Historical Society Holiday Open House
Avalon History Center, 215 39th Street
Saturday, Dec. 7 from 4 to 7 p.m.
Enjoy food & refreshments, music, good company, and good cheer at this open house!
–
Holiday Film & TV Spectacular with Pianist Jay Daniels
Saturday, Dec. 14 at 2 p.m.
Avalon Library, 235 32nd Street
Library Pianist and music historian Jay Daniels returns to Avalon to play cherished holiday and seasonal favorites.
–
Tuesday, Dec. 31 at 11 a.m.
Avalon Library, 235 32nd Street
Let’s ring in 2025! Come join us for a special family friendly magic show from Jake Strong!
–
Avalon’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks Celebration
Tuesday, Dec. 31 from 3:30 to 5 p.m.
30th Street Beach & Surfside Park
Bring the family and enjoy music, crafts, and hot chocolate at Surfside Park from 3:30-5pm, followed by a display of fireworks from the 30th Street beach.
–
Cape May
Winter Wonderland at Congress Hall
Friday, Nov. 29 through Tuesday, Dec. 31
Congress Hall, 200 Congress Place, Cape May
Congress Hall transforms into a beautiful Winter Wonderland. The massive hotel is decked with festive decor around every corner. Outside on the lawn, you’ll find our Enchanted Vendor Village, complete with an array of shopping finds from local and regional merchants. Take a spin on the Congress Hall Carousel, and step right up for a ride on the Congress Hall Express around the hotel’s Veranda.
–
Cape May Stage: The Gift of the Magi
Through December 29
405 Lafayette St.
Based on O. Henry’s “The Gift of the Magi,” a short story set in Victorian times, this modern adaptation updates the tale of love and sacrifice to the modern day. See it all at this award-winning local theater.
–
Friday, Nov. 29 from 2 to 4 p.m.
Washington Street Mall
Santa, Mrs. Claus, Elves and Musicians will be strolling the mall 2 pm to 4 pm (tentative times). Taking pictures with our visitors on the mall and collecting money for our Cape May Food Bank.
–
Washington Street Mall
Saturday, Nov. 30
75+ small businesses will be offering their fantastic products and services, with many featuring great sales and specials, all among festive décor. Complete with live music from The Honeyhawks and The Mill Creek Pickers from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
–
Tree Lighting Festivities at La Mer
Saturday, Nov. 30 from 5 to 8 p.m.
La Mer Beachfront Resort, 1317 Beach Ave.
Join us at La Mer’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony for an evening filled with live entertainment, festive drinks, a visit from Santa & Mrs. Claus, and the magical moment when our sparkling tree ignites the holiday season with joy and wonder.
–
Saturday, December 1 at 7 p.m.
Cape May Methodist Church, 635 Washington Ave.
Come hear the Angelus Chorus, Cape May County’s community choir, ring in the season with a variety of holiday favorite tunes, from hymns to holiday pop songs.
–
Photos with Santa
Friday, December 6 from 3 to 6 p.m.
Cape May Dental, 411 Park Blvd, Cape May
We are hosting Santa and collecting food for the Cape May Food Closet!
–
West Cape May Christmas Parade
Saturday, Dec. 7 from 5 to 8 p.m.
Always held on the first Saturday in December, and now in its 56th year, the parade marches through town beginning at the West Cape May Volunteer Firehouse, heading South on Broadway, turning East on Perry, and finishing its route through to the end of Carpenter Lane in the City of Cape May.
–
Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cape May Convention Hall, 714 Beach Ave
–
Nature Center Artists Holiday Marketplace
Saturday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
1600 Delaware Ave, Cape May
This year’s Artists Holiday Marketplace will feature over 15 local artists with their original handcrafted wares including three local authors. “This is our version of the famous Christmas Markets of Germany, Weihnachtmarkt.” Explains Sanctuary Director, Gretchen Whitman.
–
Hospitality Night at Washington Street Mall
Friday, Dec. 13 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Washington Street Mall Hospitality Nights, mall merchants will be offering discounts and specials as tokens of appreciation for shopping local during the holiday season.
–
Carney’s Ugly Sweater Party + Contest
Saturday, Dec. 14 from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Carney’s, 411 Beach Ave.
Get ready to don your tackiest holiday threads and celebrate in style—or lack thereof.
–
New Year’s Eve Gala & Comedy Show
Tuesday, Dec. 31 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Elaine’s, 513 Lafayette St.
We’ll be hosting our now-famous New Year’s Eve Gala & Comedy Show in the ballroom with some of the area’s top comedic geniuses – and will have a fantastic dinner prepared. The bar will be jumping with seasonal cocktails, champagne toast, and plenty of fun to welcome the New Year. Seating starts at 7 pm, with the show beginning at 8 pm, and your table is reserved for the entire evening. Hats, noisemakers, and plenty of festive decor is included.
–
Mainland
Angelus Chorus Free Concert #3
Wednesday, December 5 at 7 p.m.
Resurrection Church, 200 Tuckahoe Road, Marmora
Come hear the Angelus Chorus, Cape May County’s community choir, ring in the season with a variety of holiday favorite tunes, from hymns to holiday pop songs.
–
Wassail Day at Historic Cold Spring Village
Saturday, Dec. 7 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
735 Seashore Road, Lower Township
The Village paths come alive with the sights and sounds of the holiday season at this event!
Select buildings will be open where guests can enjoy live music, hot beverages, and holiday treats served by historical interpreters in period clothing. Visitors can meet Father Christmas in the Country Store
–
Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 7 and 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
551 Hands Mill Road Belleplain
This annual craft show celebrates its 31st year – Come out and find quality handmade crafts from a variety of vendors. Breakfast, lunch and baked goods are also available.
–
Lower Township Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 14 at 6 p.m.
Parade begins at 6:00 pm at Breakwater and Bayshore and will continue south on Bayshore ending at Rosehill Pkwy.
–
Sunday, Dec. 15
Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal
Stay tuned for more details!
–
Tuesday, Dec. 31
Stay tuned for more details!
–
Ocean City
Horse & Carriage Rides
Saturdays and Sundays from 12 to 3 p.m. through Dec. 22
6th & Asbury Ave.
–
Photos with Santa – Music Pier
Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 3 p.m. through Dec. 22
Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk
–
Photos with Santa – Downtown
Saturdays and Sundays from 9 to 11 a.m. through Dec. 22
Soifer Park, 901 Asbury Ave.
–
Every Friday through Dec. 20
Every Friday, starting Black Friday, come to downtown Ocean City to celebrate Christmas with shopping specials, beautiful Christmas decorations, and enjoy horse and carriage rides from 4 to 7 p.m., departing at 6th & Asbury.
–
Friday, Dec. 6 at 6 p.m.
Asbury Ave from 6th to 11th Streets
Registration information at ocnj.us/christmas-parade.
–
Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 7 + 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk
Come see beautiful model train displays at this popup event. Free!
–
Saturday, Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m. / Sunday, Dec. 15 at 2 p.m.
Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk
This 60-minute adaptation of the Broadway hit is specially tailored for young actors. This dazzling show transports its audience from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Tickets can be purchased at www.oceancitytheatrecompany.com
–
First Night New Year’s Eve Celebration
Tuesday, Dec. 31
Locations across Ocean City
Every year, Ocean City hosts events all around town to ring in the new year. Access every event –ice skating, performances, dancing, fireworks at midnight, and more – with one access button. More details at www.FirstNightOCNJ.com
–
First Day Shopping Extravaganza
Wednesday, January 1
Asbury Ave., 6th to 14th Street
Welcome the New Year by shopping for tremendous bargains in Downtown Ocean City, Asbury Avenue from 6th Street to 14th Street.
–
Wednesday, January 1 at 1 p.m.
Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk
Pre-register at ocnj.us/race-events or on race day from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – the race starts at 1 p.m. sharp.
–
Wednesday, January 1 at 2 p.m.
Beach at Music Pier, 825 Boardwalk
Join us for Ocean City’s first dip in the ocean for the New Year.
–
Sea Isle City
Thursday, Dec. 5 from 4 to 8 p.m.
Businesses throughout Sea Isle City
Enjoy shopping & dining during these extended hours! Cross off items on your holiday shopping list, grab a bite to eat and pick up some gift cards throughout town at participating businesses.
–
Sea Isle Museum Holiday Open House
Saturday, Dec. 7 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Sea Isle City Museum 4800 Central Avenue
The Museum is located on the first floor of the Sea Isle City Library. Come get into the holidays spirit. Take a stroll through time while enjoying light refreshments and holiday music.
–
Sunday, Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
VFW Post 1963 301, John F Kennedy Boulevard
To register or any questions call 609-263-0050 Registration begins Monday, Nov. 18 and ends Monday, Dec. 2 at noon. Children ages 10 & younger, limit 2 adults per family. Please mention any food allergies when registering.
–
Wednesday, Dec. 11 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Sign your little one up to get a call from Santa! The registration form can be located on the RecDesk website seaislerec.recdesk.com
–
Tuesday, Dec. 31 at 8 p.m.
JFK Blvd Beach
–
Wildwoods
Sundays from Dec. 1 to 22
MudHen Brewing Company, 127 W. Rio Grande Ave
Enjoy entertainment at MudHen for the entire family including hot cocoa, s’mores stations, caricatures, face painting, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and live music in the Biergarten! Make sure to visit all the wonderful vendors in the parking lot and finish that shopping list! Santa and Mrs. Claus will be visiting on December 8, 15, and 22!
–
Friday, December 6 at 6:30 p.m. – rain date Dec. 8
Parade lines up along Central Avenue and steps off 16th Avenue at 6:30 p.m. proceeding along Central Avenue, then Pacific Avenue to Spicer Avenue where the parade will turn and proceed to Byrne Plaza. Parade registration/check-in begins at 5 p.m. at the North Wildwood Recreation Center, 10th and Central Avenues, North Wildwood.
–
Wildwood Christmas in the Plaza
Friday and Saturday, Dec. 6 + 7
Byrne Plaza, 3400 Pacific Ave.
Enjoy free carnival rides and vendors from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. on Friday and from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Saturday. Live music by the John Walter Band and don’t miss story time with Mrs. Claus! For more information call 609.729.5501 or visit WildwoodHoliday.com
–
Byrne Plaza Tree Lighting Ceremony
Saturday, Dec. 6 at 8 p.m.
Byrne Plaza, 3400 Pacific Ave.
–
MudHen – White Christmas Party
Friday, Dec. 6
MudHen Brewing Company, 127 W. Rio Grande Ave.
MudHen presents a White Christmas Party at The Station House on Friday, December 6th! Enjoy live music by Don’t Call Me Francis, captivating circus performances, and special adult face painting. Sip on exclusive White Christmas cocktails crafted just for the occasion. For more information call 609.522.0159 x125 or visit mudhenbrew.com
–
Saturday, Dec. 7 at 1 p.m.
Olde New Jersey Avenue, North Wildwood
Come out and enjoy doggie treats and photo ops at participating establishments along the route. The route and participating establishments will be announced closer to the event. Prizes will be awarded for best costumes!
–
Concert – Wildwood Holiday Spectacular
Saturday, Dec. 7
Wildwood High School, 4300 Pacific Ave at 7 p.m., doors 6 p.m.
After a long hiatus, The Bobby Rydell Foundation is proud to bring back this beloved holiday tradition, where music and joy come together for a night to remember. Rising Star, Tommy Cono, and Wildwood’s Own Joey M will perform soulful renditions of classic hits and holiday favorites that will warm your heart and set the perfect festive mood. Be sure to get tickets!
–
Angelus Chorus Free Concert #4
Sunday, December 8 at 3 p.m.
St. Paul’s Church, 9910 Third Avenue, Stone Harbor
Come hear the Angelus Chorus, Cape May County’s community choir, ring in the season with a variety of holiday favorite tunes, from hymns to holiday pop songs.
–
Sunday, Dec. 8 from 12 to 2 p.m.
Crest Arts Pavilion, 6301 Ocean Ave.
View and vote on mini holiday trees in this decorating contest. Decorate ornaments for the Crest’s beach tree, enjoy a visit from Santa, eat hot chocolate and cookies, and bring an unwrapped gift for Lunch With Lynch Toy Drive.
–
Winter Wonderland at Holly Beach Park
123 E. Andrews Avenue, Wildwood.
Enjoy Wildwood’s very own Winter Wonderland at Holly Beach Park. The light show will run every half hour from 5 p.m.- 9 p.m. on December 13 + 14 and 20 + 21. Bring the family and enjoy the light show with complimentary hot chocolate, popcorn, letters to Santa station, and a visit from Mr. & Mrs. Claus. Light show and decorations will be on display nightly from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. through mid-January
–
Pinch the GrYnch’ Boardwalk Run
Saturday, Dec. 14 at 10 a.m.
Wildwoods Convention Center, 4501 Boardwalk
The race starts at 10 a.m. – rain or shine! Participants are encouraged to dress in festive holiday outfits. The race route starts at the Wildwoods Convention Center. Registration is $30 per person or $20 if you donate a new, unwrapped toy for local children in need. For more information call 609-849-8887 or visit LynchToyDrive.com
–
12 Pubs of Christmas Bar Crawl
Saturday, Dec. 14 from 12 to 10 p.m.
Pubs across North Wildwood
Celebrate the holidays and enjoy happy hour pricing & holiday sights from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. at participating establishments. A free jitney will transport you around the island from 12 p.m. – 10 p.m. with various stops along the way. For more information visit nw-boa.com
–
Family Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting Ceremony
Saturday, Dec. 14 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Wildwoods Convention Center, 4501 Boardwalk
FREE admission to holiday-themed crafters and movies, photos with Santa, choir performances, children’s craft making table, a magician, face painting, dance performances, Story Time with Mrs. Claus and much more! At 4:30 pm there will be a tree lighting ceremony.
–
Wildwood Crest Holiday Light Walk
Monday, Dec. 16 at 5:30 p.m. – rain date Dec. 17
Meet at Rambler Road & New Jersey Ave.
Walkers will take an approximately 30-minute walk along Sunset Lake and the surrounding neighborhood to view the various holiday and Christmas light displays. The Holiday Lights Walk is free, but registration is encouraged. Those interested are asked to send an email to lfarrall@wildwoodcrest.org. Walkers should wear warm clothes and bring a flashlight. All participants will receive a small holiday gift.