NJ Holiday Activities - Winter Wonderland in Cape May

Christmas in Cape May:
America’s oldest seaside resort will again transform into a Winter Wonderland with a month-long festival of glad-tidings this December

Cape Resorts properties and its elves are offering a festive season in one of the country’s merriest holiday destinations.

You may already be familiar with Cape May for its award-winning beaches and charming Victorian architecture, but did you know it is one of the most treasured holiday beach towns in the country? And no one does it grander than the Grand Dame of the northeast, America’s oldest seaside resort, Congress Hall. Making spirits bright since 1816, this magical Big House by the Sea celebrates with an annual Winter Wonderland for kids 1 to 92.

Even the jolly big guy in the red suit spends the holiday season in Cape May. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s to come as you prepare your holiday coverage and images can be downloaded here:

• Congress Hall’s Christmas Tree Lighting - Congress Hall’s beloved annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony will return on December 3, 2021.

• Take a Walk in Winter Wonderland at West End Garage - Step into the holiday HQ as the West End Garage transforms into a festive holiday shopping scene. Visitors can take the provided shuttle to enjoy seasonal treats at the Beach Plum Farm Bakery & Café, shop for the perfect Cape May treasure or gift, enjoy holiday tunes, and even leave some mail for Santa himself.

• Winter Igloos & Tents - It’s not Winter Wonderland without the return of Congress Hall’s Igloos! It's a beautiful sight: twelve snow-white igloos and three red-and-white-striped holiday tents set up on the Grand Lawn, warmed by the glow of the tree. Winter Igloos and Tents will feature an elevated menu of cocktails and light fare and can accommodate parties of up to eight. Menu and details to come.

• Breakfast with Santa - One of the most anticipated Cape May holiday events of the season is Congress Hall's Breakfast with Santa. Enjoy a delicious breakfast and get the chance to see Jolly Old St. Nick. Kids will get the chance to tell Father Christmas all of their Christmas wishes, while parents snap a pretty picture for the mantle. Saturday and Sundays in Congress Hall’s Ballroom. Details to follow.

• Holiday Dinner & Bingo with Blue and the Clauses - By popular demand, Bingo will be returning! Join Blue the Pig in the Ballroom every Wednesday as he hosts his very own dinner and rounds of Bingo, his favorite game.

• Family Night Singalongs and Dinner - A festive and fun night for the whole family with holiday singalongs and a hearty meal. Keep your eyes open between choruses because a magical guest may have an appearance at the show as well.

• Just two miles down the road at Beach Plum Farm (which provides ingredients to all of the Cape Resorts hotels & restaurants) guests of the farm can enjoy Holiday Farm-to-Table dinners on weekends during the holiday season, wreath making, and more to come.

Around town:
The Cape May Holiday Parade returns this year to kick off the holiday season. Always held on the first Saturday in December (12/4) The West Cape May Community Christmas Parade sets the stage for the area’s holiday season. Timing and details to be announced.

Those who celebrate Christmas in Cape May may also enjoy candlelight house tours, Santa Trolley rides, and so much more

Stay awhile:
Stay in Cape May for a holiday experience the entire family will cherish forever. Retreat to your plush guest room at Congress Hall after a day of Winter Wonderland whimsy, or unwrap gifts in the cozy living room of one of our Beach Plum Farm cottages. With accommodations ranging from quaint and intimate boutique rooms to whole-house luxury rentals, a stay with Cape Resorts is a guarantee that your season will be merry and bright. Congress Hall’s Breakfast with Santa offer is one of the most popular holiday getaways! View accommodations and offers here