Charming Christmas WOWs: Dan Zarrow’s Guide to a Festive Getaway in Cape May

There’s something about this time of year that feels downright magical. The air is turning crisp and cold. Days are getting shorter as nights are growing longer. And a quiet anticipation begins to build.

Soon enough, twinkling lights will sparkle on every street corner of New Jersey. And the scent of pine and peppermint will fill the air. Sure sign that Christmas is on its way.

If you’re already dreaming of cozy nights, cheerful music, and a little holiday adventure, you are not alone. This is the perfect moment to start planning just how and where you’ll make your season merry and bright.

For a true holiday escape that feels lifted straight from a snow globe, you do not need to head to the North Pole. In fact, I would argue that the best Christmas cheer and classic charm in New Jersey is waiting at the very southern tip of the state. Yup, good ol' Exit 0 on the Garden State Parkway — Cape May!

Every December, this seaside town swaps seashells for sleigh bells. With its storybook streets, grand Victorian homes dressed to the nines, and nonstop holiday festivities, Cape May transforms into one of the most enchanting Christmas destinations on the East Coast.

Tours

You could probably spend hours walking or driving around on a self-guided tour through Cape May, soaking in the brilliant Christmas lights amid the infamous "Painted Ladies" Victorian homes.

If you are looking for a more organized excursion, official guided Christmas Candlelight House Tours are offered on select Saturdays in December.

The spectacular Emlen Physick Estate offers an Evening Yuletide House Tour on designated nights.

And if you fancy a stroll under the quaint glow of old-fashioned gas lanterns, you can join the Lamplighter Christmas Walking Tour on select evenings in December too.

Trolleys

Cape May Museums + Arts + Culture (MAC) is well-known for their series of trolley tours running around the city year-round. And they add an awesome assortment of special holiday trolleys to the schedule.

Check out the Holiday Lights tour, Holiday Inns tour, Santa’s Trolley Ride, and All That Glitters (telling stories of the holiday social landscape of Cape May's Victorian Era). Or if you want to tap into the peninsula's spooky side, you might try the Spirited Cape May Trolley Ride.

Trees

Officially, this year's holiday festivities in Cape May run from November 22, 2025 to January 4, 2026.

Two specific dates to mark on your calendar are the two special Christmas tree lightings: Saturday, November 22, 2025 at the Physick Estate and Friday, December 5, 2025 in Wilbraham Park and on Congress Hall's Great Lawn.

Shopping

You can find the perfect gift for everyone on your list In Cape May.

The most popular shopping hotspot in town is Washington Street Mall. Featuring dozens of shops and eateries, you could easily spend an entire festive day shopping here.

Shows

Cape May Stage closes out the 2025 season with Let's Catch Santa throughout late November and December. Their website describes this dramatic comedy as bringing "two lonely souls together, to find family in each other, truth within themselves and the fun, child-like belief in the timeless magic of Santa, Christmas and the holiday season."

Finally, head back to the Emlen Physick Estate for 'Tis the Season: The Trials of Tradition, an interactive theater experience presented throughout the real Victorian house/museum.

Stays

Summer season may be prime season for Cape May. But don't sleep on the peninsula's Christmas festivities as a lively, lovely day trip. Or even better, a weekend staycation.

Cape May is especially known for its assortment of bed and breakfast accommodations.

Congress Hall is a true landmark, renowned as America's oldest seaside resort. It has been welcoming visitors since 1816. Their Winter Wonderland festivities begin November 28.

Finally, the Inn of Cape May has expanded their special Breakfast with Santa events, now scheduled for several dates through the holiday season. Enjoy a breakfast buffet, while making sure Mr. Claus knows exactly what is on your list this year.

More

In addition to all the holiday offerings, Cape May has so much to explore. Even in wintertime.

The fantastic Cape May County Park and Zoo is one of my family's favorite destinations, and they are open year-round. Plus, admission is free! (Donations are highly recommended.)

The Cape May Lighthouse has been a beacon along Cape May Point since the 1800s. It still operates to this day. And you can climb the 199 steps to the top for outstanding views of the entire peninsula and beyond. Be aware operating hours are reduced during the off-season.

Another destination to check out is Cape May Winery & Vineyard, offering daily tastings, a tapas menu, special events, and beautiful views. (Their Lighthouse White is one of my favorites!)

For more suggestions on things to do in captivating Cape May in any season, check out my Ultimate Guide to Cape May, NJ: 11 Things to See and Do article.