Cape May’s December 2009 Calendar Listings

Through Jan. 3, 2010

Cape May's Holiday Season: Seven weeks of special holidays tours and events including the 36th Annual Christmas Candlelight House Tours (Dec. 5, 12, 19), Dickens Christmas Extravaganza (Dec. 6-8), Plus Lamplighter Christmas Tours, Ghosts of Christmas Past Trolley Rides, Emlen Physick Estate Christmas Tours, Holiday Inns Tours, Evening Holiday Lights Trolley Rides, Evening Ghosts of Christmas Past Trolley Rides, Santa's Trolley Rides, and more.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information or to make reservations, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Cape May's Designer Show House at Christmas: Discover the charming Carpenter Cottage at 511 Franklin St. decorated for the holiday season by some of the region's top designers.  The home will be open for self-guided tours daily from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., plus Thursday and Friday evenings at 7 p.m. (No tours on Dec. 25. No evening tours on Dec. 24 or Dec. 31) Tours can be combined with can be combined with lunch and dinner packages.  Each visitor will receive a full-color program book with information about the designers, products and vendors. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children (ages 3-12).  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.  

An Old-Fashioned Christmas Exhibit: An exhibit of holiday traditions through the years complete with a Dickens Village collection, model trains, trees, toys and much more! At the Carriage House Gallery at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., Cape May.  Exhibit runs through Sunday, Jan. 3. The Gallery is open daily (except Christmas); hours vary. $2 for adults and $1 for children (ages 3-12) or free with any tour of the Emlen Physick Estate. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information or gallery hours, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Dec. 3-31

Cape May Stage Presents An O. Henry Christmas: Experience the magic and joy of the holiday season with two heart-warming one-act musicals that capture the true spirit of giving, "The Gift of the Magi" and "The Last Leaf." Based on the classic O. Henry stories, this holiday favorite transports you to turn-of-the-century New York City and will have you leaving the theatre with feelings of love, giving and hope.  Adults: $35; seniors: $25; children: $12.50. Advance reservation strongly recommended. Offered Thursdays and Fridays, Dec. 3-30 at 8 p.m., Saturdays, Dec. 5-26 at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays, Dec. 6-27 at 3 p.m. at the Robert Shackleton Playhouse, Lafayette and Bank streets.  (No show on Christmas) Sponsored by Cape May Stage in association with the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Dec. 5

36th Annual Christmas Candlelight House Tour: This self-guided tour, the main attraction of Cape May's festive holiday season, features homes, inns, hotels and churches decorated for the holidays, plus caroling, strolling musicians and good old-fashioned cheer. Hospitality centers offer warm beverages and home-baked treats. Includes admission to the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., and the Carriage House Gallery. Continuous shuttle service on heated trolleys. 5:30-8:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 5. Adults $25, children $20 (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Christmas Traditions Lecture: Learn how Prince Albert brought Christmas traditions to England from Germany when he married Queen Victoria, and how these traditions spread to America in this richly illustrated lecture at the Robert Shackleton Playhouse, Lafayette and Bank streets.  Much of what we associate with the celebration of Christmas comes from the Victorian era, including Christmas trees, Christmas cards, Christmas carols and our image of Santa Claus. 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5.  Admission $10.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Breakfast with Santa: Enjoy a family-friendly breakfast buffet at the Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean St., as children visit with Santa and hear a Christmas story.  Christmas lists accepted!  Treats for the kids.   10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 5.  $15 for adults, $10 for children (ages 3-12).  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Dec. 6-8

Dickens Christmas Extravaganza: Enjoy the sights and sounds, tastes and scents of Dickens' era. A variety of lectures and performances about Dickens and the Victorian world are offered daily. The festivities conclude with a proper Victorian Feast. $150 per person. Sunday, Dec. 6 through Tuesday, Dec. 8.  Complete packages with accommodations are also available. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information or to make reservations, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Dec. 6

East Lynne Theater Company Presents "Christmas in Black and White:" World Premiere!  The American Christmas experience from the viewpoint of freed slaves to newly arrived immigrants is brought to life by two master storytellers, Stephanie Garrett and Gayle Stahlhuth.  8:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6.  Adults & seniors: $23; students: $13. Children under 12 admitted free.  Performances at The First Presbyterian Church, Decatur and Hughes streets.  Sponsored by East Lynne Theater Company in association with the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Dec. 11 and 12

East Lynne Theater Company Presents "Christmas in Black and White:" World Premiere!  The American Christmas experience from the viewpoint of freed slaves to newly arrived immigrants is brought to life by two master storytellers, Stephanie Garrett and Gayle Stahlhuth.  8:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11 and Saturday, Dec. 12.  Adults & seniors: $23; students: $13. Children under 12 admitted free.  Performances at The First Presbyterian Church, Decatur and Hughes streets.  Sponsored by East Lynne Theater Company in association with the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Dec. 11

Holiday Wine Tasting Dinner: Celebrate the holidays early with a festive five-course dinner paired with great wines under $20, perfect for holiday gifts.  Limited to 60. Admission $75. Friday, December 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Mad Batter Restaurant, 19 Jackson St.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Dec. 12

Holiday Cooking Class & Lunch at the Mad Batter: Join the chef from the Mad Batter at 19 Jackson St. for a quick class on cooking for the holidays. Includes a light three-course lunch at the famous restaurant on 19 Jackson St.  Saturday, December 12 at 1 p.m.  Limited to 30. Admission $45. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

36th Annual Christmas Candlelight House Tour: This self-guided tour, the main attraction of Cape May's festive holiday season, features homes, inns, hotels and churches decorated for the holidays, plus caroling, strolling musicians and good old-fashioned cheer. Hospitality centers offer warm beverages and home-baked treats. Includes admission to the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., and the Carriage House Gallery. Continuous shuttle service on heated trolleys. 5:30-8:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 12. Adults $25, children $20 (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Christmas Traditions Lecture: Learn how Prince Albert brought Christmas traditions to England from Germany when he married Queen Victoria, and how these traditions spread to America in this richly illustrated lecture at the Robert Shackleton Playhouse, Lafayette and Bank streets.  Much of what we associate with the celebration of Christmas comes from the Victorian era, including Christmas trees, Christmas cards, Christmas carols and our image of Santa Claus. 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12.  Admission $10.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Breakfast with Santa: Enjoy a family-friendly breakfast buffet at the Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean St., as children visit with Santa and hear a Christmas story.  Christmas lists accepted!  Treats for the kids.   10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12.  $15 for adults, $10 for children (ages 3-12).  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Dec. 18-20

Cape May Wine Weekend: Triple your delight by combining a Wine Tasting Dinner, Winery Cellar Tour and Wine Tasting Class for a weekend of total indulgence. The weekend begins at 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 18 with a four-course dinner at the Washington Inn featuring wines themed to the Sunday Wine School Class. Guests will be treated to individual attention from the wine steward. On Saturday, Dec. 19 at 3 p.m., visit the award-winning Cape May Winery for a tour of the vineyard, an introduction to the winemaker's art, and a barrel tasting with cheese and fruit. On Sunday, Dec. 20 at 1 p.m., learn the finer points of fine wines at a Wine School Class at the Washington Inn. The complete package is $135 per person.  Friday, Dec. 18-Sunday, Dec. 20.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information or to make reservations, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Dec. 19

36th Annual Christmas Candlelight House Tour: This self-guided tour, the main attraction of Cape May's festive holiday season, features homes, inns, hotels and churches decorated for the holidays, plus caroling, strolling musicians and good old-fashioned cheer. Hospitality centers offer warm beverages and home-baked treats. Includes admission to the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., and the Carriage House Gallery. Continuous shuttle service on heated trolleys. 5:30-8:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 19. Adults $25, children $20 (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Dec. 20

Cape May Wine School: It's All in the Bubbles-Sparkling Wines for the Holidays: Before you pop the cork, prepare for holiday celebrations with a tasting of sparkling wines at the Washington Inn, 801 Washington St. 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20.  Admission $30.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Dec. 30

Holiday Chefs' Dine-around: Enjoy a five-course gourmet feast, with each course served in one of Cape May's premier restaurants. Wine will be provided with each course, with a representative from the sponsoring winery on hand to explain the pairings. A trolley shuttle between restaurants is provided. Wine will be available for purchase.  6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30.  Reserve early; limited to 34 people!  $125 per person (gratuity included).  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Ongoing Events and Tours:

Cape May Christmas Tour: See Cape May's Historic District decked out for the season from a heated trolley, followed by a guided tour of the Emlen Physick Estate, an authentically decorated Victorian mansion, and a tour of the 2009 Cape May Designer Show House dressed up for the holidays.  Admission includes an "Old-fashioned Christmas" exhibit in the Carriage House Gallery and a trolley shuttle to the show house.  $25 for adults, $20 for children (ages 3-12).  Offered Mondays through Thursdays at 11 a.m. through Dec. 23 and Dec. 28-31.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information or to purchase tickets, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Cape May Family Treasure Hunt: Discover the fun of exploring Cape May and uncovering its architectural elements from a kid's perspective. Packet includes clues sheet and map that will take you on a self-guided discovery tour, set to your own pace (answer sheet also included). Available daily (except Christmas), year-round. $5 per packet (Only one packet is needed per family). Co-sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC) and Preservation New Jersey. For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Cape May Lighthouse, Oil House and Museum Shop: 1859 structure with 199 steps to watch gallery for a panoramic view of the Jersey Cape and Atlantic Ocean. Museum Shop carries souvenirs, books, videos and other maritime items.  Open Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 5-20 and daily Dec. 26-31 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.  Cape May Point State Park, Lower Township. Admission to the Visitors' Orientation Center and the ground floor of the Lighthouse is free. Tower admission is $7 for adults, $3 for children (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Cape May's Designer Show House at Christmas Dinner Tour Packages:  Savor a three-course dinner at one of Cape May's premier restaurants before a self-guided, evening tour of Cape May's Designer Show House decked out in holiday style. Guests seat at 5:30 p.m. and have the choice from several options on the early seating menu. The Show House is open for tours at 7 p.m.  Dinner/Tour tickets are $45 per person and are inclusive of tax and gratuity.  Offered Thursdays and Fridays through Dec. 18.   Thursday Dinner Options: Union Park or The Merion Inn; Friday Dinner Options: The Washington Inn or A Ca Mia.  Not offered Thursday, Dec. 10.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Cape May's Designer Show House at Christmas Luncheon Package: Delight in an elegant four-course Tea Luncheon at the Carriage House Tearoom & Café on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May's only Victorian house museum. You can take your Show House tour after your luncheon.  Tea Luncheon/Tour tickets are $35 per person and are inclusive of tax and gratuity. Please call 609-884- 5111, to reserve your seating at the Tearoom.  Available daily from 11:30 a.m.  Not offered Dec. 24 and 25.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Carriage House Tearoom and Café:  An English tradition brought to Victorian Cape May, featuring a Tea Luncheon of sandwiches, salads, soups, breads, pastries and beverages, and Elegant Afternoon Tea of finger sandwiches, pastries, scones and beverages. The café menu also offers heartier fare with a selection of entrée salads, soups, sandwiches and wraps. Carriage House Tearoom and Café is on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. Open daily from 11:30 a.m.  Tearoom is closed Dec. 24 and 25.  To make reservations call 609-884-5111.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Combination Trolley/ Emlen Physick Estate Christmas Tours: Guided trolley tour of Cape May' Historic District, followed by a guided tour of the 1879 Physick Estate, Cape May's only Victorian house museum, decorated in authentic Victorian style.  Learn about Victorian Christmas decorations and traditions.  Offered daily (no tours on Christmas); times vary.  Adults $18; children (3-12) $9.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Emlen Physick Estate Christmas Tours: Visit the 1879 Physick Estate, Cape May's only Victorian house museum, decorated in authentic Victorian style.  Learn about Victorian Christmas decorations and traditions on this guided daytime tour.  Can also be combined with a historic district trolley tour.  Offered daily (no tours on Christmas); times vary.  $10 for adults, $5 for children (ages 3-12).  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org. 

Ghosts of Christmas Past Trolley Rides: Members of the East Lynne Theater Company regale you with a Victorian holiday ghost tale as you ride through Cape May's festively decorated Historic District.  Offered nightly through Dec. 31 except for the following dates when there are no tours: Dec. 5, 10, 12, 19, 24 & 25.  Tour times vary.  $10 for adults, $7 for children (ages 3-12).  Advance reservations strongly recommended.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.     

Historic District Trolley Tours: Get acquainted with Cape May on a trolley tour as knowledgeable guides present entertaining and educational stories about the nation's oldest seashore resort. Offered daily, times vary.  No tours on Christmas.  $10 for adults and $5 for children (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Historic District Walking Tour: Designed for those who like history up-close and in detail. Knowledgeable guides lead a stroll down the streets of Cape May's Historic District.   Offered Fridays through Dec. 18 at 11 a.m. (separate admission for Taste of Christmas Tour.)  $10 for adults and $5 for children (ages 3 -12). Tickets are available at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Holiday Inns Tours: Get into the Christmas spirit at three of Cape May's festively decorated Bed and Breakfast Inns and Cape May's 2009 Designer Show House.  You'll be treated to a holiday presentation at each inn and enjoy a self-guided tour at the Designer Show House.  Offered Mondays through Thursdays through Dec. 17 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.  $18 for adults, $13 for children (ages 3-12).  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.   

Holiday Lights Trolley Rides: Ride through Cape May's Historic District to see cheerfully decorated inns and homes as guides talk about Victorian Christmas traditions, lead sing-alongs, and play Christmas music.  Rides last about 30 minutes and cost $8 per seat. Your ticket is also good for admission to the Carriage House Gallery exhibit plus a 10% discount at any of MAC's Museum Shops. Offered nightly through Dec. 31 except for the following dates when there are no tours: Dec. 5, 10, 12, 19, 24 & 25.  Tour times vary.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.     

Lamplighter Christmas Tour: Relive the memories of Christmas past by joining in this self-guided evening tour of five of Cape May's finest Bed and Breakfast inns, specially decorated for the holidays.  Innkeepers will share their holiday spirit at each location. The tour also includes a visit to the Carriage House Gallery at the Emlen Physick Estate where you can see "An Old-fashioned Christmas: Holiday Traditions through the Years" exhibit while enjoying seasonal treats.  Offered Fridays through Dec. 18, Sunday, Dec. 27, Tuesday, Dec. 29 and Saturday, Jan. 2 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. $20 for adults, $15 for children (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Santa's Trolley Rides: Bring the kids to the Physick Estate on weekends for a ride around Cape May with stories and songs led by Mrs. Claus.  Santa will greet children with a sweet in the Carriage House. All seats $8.  Offered Saturdays through Dec. 19 at 11:45 a.m., 12:45 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:15 p.m. and Sundays through Dec. 13 at 11:45 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.  Advance reservations strongly recommended.  All trolleys depart from the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Self-Guided Audio Tour of Cape May: Discover the Historic District of Victorian Cape May at your own pace with Acoustiguide Inform hand-held units. Tour comes complete with a map and index for 96 historic buildings on 69 sites. Available daily (except Christmas), 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m., at the Hill House office at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. Rental fee is $10 per unit. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Spirit of Christmas Tour: Enjoy an entertaining account of Victorian Christmas traditions on an evening trolley ride through Cape May's festive streets.  Then, visit the authentically decorated Emlen Physick Estate for a living history holiday presentation.  The tour includes a visit to the Carriage House for holiday refreshments and the Gallery exhibit "An Old-fashioned Christmas: Holiday Traditions through the Years." Tours last about 2 hours. Offered nightly through Dec. 30 except for the following dates when there are no tours: Dec. 5, 10, 12, 19, 24, and 25.  Tour times vary.  $18 for adults, $13 for children (ages 3-12).  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.     

Taste of Christmas Tour: Build up your appetite on a walking tour of Cape May's Historic District dressed up for the holidays and then enjoy lunch at the famous Mad Batter Restaurant.   Tours last about one hour.  Offered Fridays through Dec. 18 at 11 a.m.  $20 for adults, $15 for children (ages 3-12).  Space is limited. Advance reservation strongly recommended.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC).  For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

Winery Cellar Tour and Tasting: Spend an afternoon at the award-winning Cape May Winery. Includes a barrel tasting accompanied by cheese and fruit and a complimentary tasting glass. Offered Saturdays through Dec. 26, Monday, Dec. 28, Tuesday, Dec. 29, and Wednesday, Dec. 30 at 3 p.m.  Offered Thursday, Dec. 31 at 1 p.m.  $20 per person.  Purchase tickets in advance at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth.  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information or to purchase tickets, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

World War II Lookout Tower (Fire Control Tower No. 23) Museum and Memorial:  New in 2009! Fire Control Tower No. 23 on Sunset Boulevard is New Jersey's last freestanding World War II tower, part of the immense Harbor Defense of the Delaware system known as Fort Miles.  After the tower's award-winning restoration, visitors can now climb to the 6th floor-spotting gallery while reliving the homeland defense efforts during World War II.  The ground floor of the tower is fully accessible.  Open Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 5-20 and daily Dec. 26-31 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.  $6 for adults, $2.50 for children (ages 3-12).  Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.