As autumn deepens, the weather stays chilly and the boardwalks quiet slightly, the Jersey Shore embraces a beautiful transitional season. From winery markets to early-holiday kick-offs, November delivers a mix of things to do across Atlantic and Cape May counties. Whether you’re in the mood for family-friendly outings or opportunities to get your holiday shopping done, there’s something for everyone.
Here are five top-notch events happening this November that you won’t want to miss:
1. Winterfest By The Sea (Nov. 15, Ocean City)
The annual Winterfest By the Sea is almost here in Ocean City. It’s the perfect time to start your Christmas shopping and stroll through this great shore town. The event, located in the Ocean City Civic Center, promises shopping, community connections and the salty air all around. For more information, visit https://visitnj.org/nj-events/winterfest-sea-0.
2. Christmas Fantasy with Lights (Nov. 15, Egg Harbor Township)
As we all know, Storybook Land brings the magic of Christmas time to life inside its park, making it a must-stop venture this, and every, holiday season. The holiday magic is coming quickly as the park will light up the skies and kids’ hearts starting this Saturday, Nov. 15. Santa will wave his magic wand and light up the park every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until Christmas.
3. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (Nov. 22, Cape May)
You won’t want to miss the official tree-lighting kickoff at the Emlen Physick Estate in Cape May, paired with early holiday festivities. Families will appreciate the festive atmosphere in the air and the free admission. Local businesses benefit from the Christmas ceremony too, thanks to increased foot traffic and photo-ops. Cape May truly comes alive during the holiday season, and this is the perfect opportunity to see that magic for yourself. For more information, visit the Cape May MAC website: https://capemaymac.org/experience/christmas-in-cape-may/holiday-tree-lighting-ceremony/.
4. Christmas in the Downtown: “Our Miracle on Asbury Avenue” (Nov. 28, Ocean City)
Step onto Asbury Ave as it becomes the place where Christmas comes to town. Enjoy this old-fashioned Downtown Christmas spectacle full of community, lights, laughter, and even carriage rides through the city. Make sure to stay all day because Santa Claus stops over at 5 p.m.!
5. Dickens Festival (Nov. 29-30, Smithville)
Right at the cusp of the holiday season, this festival brings Victorian-era charm to life with costumed characters, holiday shopping and street music. It’s a great way to slide into the holiday spirit, but still feel seasonal rather than full-blown Christmas. And what better spot to start getting into the holiday spirit than in our lovely historic Smithville? Stay all day and into the night to experience their annual Christmas celebration, with the return of the holiday lights show and tree lightings. See the following website for details: https://historicsmithvillenj.com/56-dicken-s-fest.
Fall at the shore brings a shift to fewer crowds, but unique events. The mix of event options gives locals and part-timers alike reasons to linger a little longer into the season. For families, there are kid-friendly options. For local explorers, the festivals and artisan markets hit just right.
If you’re hoping to indulge in one or two, or all, of these great November events, here are a few things to be mindful of!
Dress in layers: Coastal November weather can swing from sunny and mild to crisp and breezy.
Check online ahead: Some events may require tickets or registration.
Parking and transit: Historic towns like Cape May can get busy. Arrive early or consider off-site parking.
Extend your outing: Many events are paired with dining or lodging options.
Mind the calendar: Some events span multiple days.
Whether you’re strolling through a tree-lighting ceremony or shopping at a seasonal market, November along the shore is rich with possibility. For locals looking to make the most of their season, these events deliver both ambiance and enjoyment you won’t want to miss.
Delaney Crawford is a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for storytelling and digital marketing. Driven by a desire to empower local businesses, Delaney founded DLC Media, a company dedicated to helping businesses enhance their brand image and thrive online.
