Christmas by the Sea: Historic Cape May and Victorian Printable

Friends and frequent readers may have guessed from my many posts featuring Cape May NJ that this charming historic town is one of my very favorite places to visit. While winter finds other nearby beach resorts closing their shutters for a long winter's nap, Victorian Cape May dons her holiday festive finery, trims the tree and decks the halls. Now a yearly "girls getaway" tradition, four friends and relatives headed beachside for a little dose of coastal Christmas spirit. With limited time and budget, we still managed to have the most delightful visit and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season. So I thought I'd share our

Cape May Christmas To-do List

Get glimpse of Santa(s) at the Virginia Hotel

This elegant hotel adds some Christmas whimsy each year with playful climbing Santas

 Admire the "Gingerbread" Houses

Often referred to as "Gingerbread", Many Cape May houses boast intricate Victorian scrollwork and vibrant colors seemingly inspired by their candy covered namesakes

Step Back in Time at Congress Hall

America's oldest seaside resort (1816) began as a large but modest boarding house and grew in popularity and grandeur to host several presidents. John Philip Sousa composed the Congress Hall March in its honor after performing there. Nowadays it is transformed into a winter wonderland, delighting young and old at Christmas time.

OoH and aah over Holiday Lights

You won't want to miss a visit to the historic Emlen Physick Estate, capemaymac.org and their wonderful tree and Dicken's village in their gift shop and tea room. Take one of their trolley tours and learn about the town's unique history. Or simply stroll around the area to admire the houses, shops and B&B's by night.

Enjoy Holiday Shopping (or just browse)

Browse the areas unique mix of shops including Winterwood, a year round Christmas shop or the art and vintage co-op gallery West End Garage.

and of course

Eat Drink and Be Merry

Time out at one of our absolute favorites for award winning eats and

 the "Happiest" (and budget friendly) happy hour

The Mad Batter

www.madbatter.com

Of course the real gift was fun times spent with friends and family!

Wishing everyone

the Joy of the Season

Please enjoy our Victorian Cape May inspired

 printable Christmas Card

simply right click on image and choose "open in new window" and print for holiday crafting and giving

Created using images from The Graphics Fairy, cat image from Pinterest, source unavailable