Christmas in Cape May

Rotary Park dressed up for the holidays. Photo: Michelle Giorla

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.

The corridor at Congress Hall dressed for Winter Wonderland

Annual Holiday Events

West Cape May Christmas Parade
Always the first Saturday of December

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

Customer Appreciation Days
Washington Street Mall merchants offer discounts and specials to thank you for shopping local!

Breakfast with Santa
Kids can deliver their wish lists in-person!

Cape May MAC’s holiday-themed trolley rides
Enjoy Victorian 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 and children’s activities

See all Cape May events

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 accommodations are open year-round?

We indicate year-round hotels, year-round B&Bs, and year-round guest houses with a calendar icon so you can easily identify them. Staying longer than a few days? Another accommodation option is to rent a house or condo.

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.

Explore year-round Cape May restaurants

Does Santa visit Cape May?

Yes! Santa 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. Several restaurants offer breakfast with Santa (or Mrs. Claus) too.