The Christmas season is a particularly beautiful time of the year in Cape May. The Washington Street Mall is dotted with lights, greenery, and decorations, and many of the historic homes and hotels around our town decorate in unique ways.

Cape May Holiday Gift Guide

If you have a Cape May enthusiast on your holiday shopping list, we put together ideas for you on our holiday gift guide.

Holiday Events

West Cape May Christmas Parade
Always the first Saturday of December

Tree lighting ceremonies
Cape May City, Congress Hall, and the Emlen Physick Estate each hold ceremonies

Hospitality Nights on the Washington Street Mall
Merchants open their doors and offer shoppers refreshments while they browse

Cape May MAC’s holiday-themed trolley rides
Enjoy Victoriam holiday ghost tales, a tour of Cape May’s holiday lights, or a visit with Santa

Winter Wonderland at Congress Hall
Featuring an outdoor shopping village, concert series, and children’s activities

FAQs about Christmas in Cape May

When will Cape May be decorated for the holidays?

There isn’t a specific date that holiday lights go up and come down, but the town is decorated by the Christmas Parade (the first Saturday in December) and decorated into the new year.

What restaurants and shops are open at Christmas?

Most shops and restaurants are open through the holiday season, with extended shopping hours closer to Christmas.

There are restaurants that serve on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but many will be closed, so please call ahead to make sure your favorite will be open.

Does Santa visit Cape May?

Yes! Santa Claus is a frequent visitor to Cape May and makes appearances at many of Cape May restaurants and shops during the holiday season. He also rides on a firetruck in the West Cape May Christmas Parade and can be spotted outside the Original Fudge Kitchen during the holiday season. Several restaurants offer breakfast with Santa (or Mrs. Claus), too.

Christmas in Cape May photo gallery