Coastal Conversations
Behind every successful community event and vibrant destination is someone dedicated to bringing people together. As director of civic affairs, recreation, tourism and marketing for Cape May, Kacie Rattigan plays an important role in enhancing the quality of life for residents while showcasing all that this special seaside community has to offer.
With its beautiful beaches, tree-lined streets, colorful Victorian homes and bustling Washington Street Mall, Cape May has a charm all its own. More than 600 Victorian-era structures help give the city its distinctive character, while restaurants, shops, theaters and attractions keep visitors coming back long after the traditional summer season ends.
There is also plenty to experience throughout the year. Cape May’s calendar reflects that year-round approach. In the warmer months, residents and visitors enjoy free family events and live music, including the city’s popular Music in the Park series at Rotary Park. As the seasons change, fall festivities and holiday traditions continue to bring people downtown and keep Cape May active well beyond summer. Visitors can explore the Emlen Physick Estate, climb the Cape May Lighthouse, visit the World War II Lookout Tower or take one of the many historic trolley and walking tours offered throughout Cape May. Seasonal traditions, from fall and Halloween events to the popular Christmas in Cape May celebrations, give residents and visitors reasons to enjoy the city in every season.
From organizing special events and recreational programs to promoting tourism and supporting local businesses, Kacie’s work helps create experiences that strengthen community connections and welcome visitors year-round. She shares her passion for what makes Cape May such a special place to live and visit.
AS: Can you tell our readers a little about your background and what led you to your role as director of civic affairs, recreation, tourism and marketing for Cape May?
KR: Believe it or not, my father is an avid newspaper reader and decided to send me a screenshot of the ad printed by the City of Cape May in 2021. I was working at a venue in Atlantic City, but applied and here we are!
AS: Throughout the year, your department organizes a variety of community events. What goes into planning these events, and why are they so important to the community?
KR: Planning begins immediately after an event ends so we are busy all year long. We hear from guests that specifically book their trips around our events, JAWS on the Beach being one of them!
AS: Tourism plays a significant role in South Jersey. What are some of the ways your office works to attract visitors while supporting local businesses?
KR: We host free family-friendly events throughout the year to encourage visitors and guests to visit, which helps enhance our local economy.
AS: Recreation programs bring people of all ages together. Are there any new or upcoming initiatives you’re especially excited about in Cape May?
KR: The improvements happening at the Wise-Anderson Park on Lafayette Street have been more than a decade in the making and I am so excited to work alongside management, Mayor and Council to enhance the programs Cape May has to offer! The park plans can be seen on capemaycity.com.
AS: What do you think makes your community such a special place to live, work and visit?
KR: I think it’s hard not to recognize just how special, quaint and unique Cape May really is, but to be blessed enough to live and work in Cape May is just that, a blessing.
AS: Every job comes with its challenges. What has been one of the most rewarding moments in your career, and what lessons have you learned along the way?
KR: I was blessed to work on the Queen Mary in Long Beach, California for several years. Not only was it a remarkable venue to be associated with, but it was also the ship that moved my grandmother to America from Ireland many years ago. There was nothing more rewarding than feeling like I was with her in spirit on a daily basis when going to work a job I loved!
AS: Looking ahead, what are your goals for the future of recreation, tourism and community engagement in Cape May, and what can residents look forward to?
KR: The goal is always to make each year better than the year before, so, along with my amazing staff, we strive to plan, develop and execute fun and exciting events and programs that keep people coming back for more!
A huge thanks to Kacie for sharing her story and for the work she and her team do to bring people together and promote all that Cape May has to offer. From its history and Victorian charm to its beaches, shops and year-round events, Cape May has a way of making both longtime residents and first-time visitors feel welcomed.
Coastal Conversations highlights people in our community who are making a meaningful impact. If you know someone who would be a great fit for a future column, please contact me at ShoreCoastalConversations@gmail.com.
From the shore to your door, let’s keep the conversation going.
