By Steffen Klenk
Every year, thousands make their way to South Jersey to experience the magic of the holiday season. With dozens of special events, craft markets, visits with Santa, and the chill of winter hitting the air, locals are doing their part to bring a taste of joy to all around this season. In Ocean City, residents and visitors have begun planting Christmas trees on the beach, each one symbolizing a different activity, occupation, or cause. Here at Shore Local, we take you on a north to south Christmas tree tour.
It was six years ago that the McElwee family began a new tradition by planting a Christmas tree at North Street and the Beach. But it wasn’t until COVID that it became a source of hope and inspiration to so many. Today, the family has continued this long-standing tradition, one that has inspired so many of the trees you will see as you read forward. Just be prepared for a short walk up the sand and prepare for the forecast.
Afterwards, drive down to 9th Street and the Boardwalk, where you will find Whale Tree. For the second year in a row, this tree is brought to us by a dedicated group of individuals with one collective message: love for our ocean. All are invited to share their decorated shells and ornaments for display.
A short walk down the boardwalk at 11th Street is Military Tree, a large Fraser fir brought to the island by Dave Darrow and his two sons, Dan and Jesse. Each year, the tree is planted in honor of Dave’s late wife, Kathy Darrow, and honors all individuals past and present who serve to protect and defend the freedoms we have today.
Making its return to 15th Street Beach this year is the First Responders Tree. Residents Steve Collum and Linda VanOcker concepted the community tree back in 2021. That year, hundreds of individuals left carefully placed ornaments, each one themed to represent policemen, firefighters, and EMTs. VanOcker is a former EMT for Berwyn Fire Company and is dedicated to raising awareness of the pivotal role first responders play in our communities.
Just off the boardwalk at 18th Street is Pickleball Tree. Those who are into the growing sport will admire this unique tree, decorated entirely with pickleballs.
Don’t forget man’s best friend. Head to 21st Street Beach where you will find Pet Tree. This spot along the beach is the perfect place to decorate a shell or leave an ornament in celebration of a beloved canine or feline friend. It may even be the perfect place for a family photo. This tree gets two paws up.
New this year is Heaven Tree at 29th Street Beach, and a tree at 36th Street, both honoring the life and legacy of longtime area residents.
For the second year in a row, the DeChristopher family has placed their Memorial Tree at 34th Street Beach in memory of their mother Rose Ann. Signs placed around the tree encourage beachgoers to decorate a shell in the memory of a loved one. There, you will also find a bright red mailbox, where children can drop off their letter to Santa, now until Dec. 17 at 4 p.m. If you forgot to bring stamps or an envelope, you will find a bin complete with stationary equipment to ensure a response before Christmas.
There, you will also find a box entitled ‘Letters to Heaven’. Beachgoers can send messages of love, prayers, updates, or a holiday greeting to an individual who has passed on. For those who visit, this special mailbox can be a source of comfort and peace to those who are healing. Papers, pens, and envelopes are offered.
Recent posts on social media show the return of Driftwood Tree to 40th Street with a clam shell that shares a simple message: Peace on Earth.
At 50th Street Beach, you will find a well-decorated tree setup by a vibrant group of women known as the OCNJ Queens. The group is dedicated to connecting through social and philanthropic efforts. Last year, they raised nearly $1,000 for Angels in Motion. This holiday season, they are spreading cheer by supporting Cancer Support Community New Jersey’s at Gilda’s.
Lisa Walsh, organizer of the Queens group, says every donation will go towards helping individuals and families in critical need. “Your generous contribution will have a lasting impact, providing vital support to those in need and helping to spread hope and comfort during this special time of year”, says Walsh.
The tree is a celebration of nature, adorned with handmade ornaments crafted from bird seeds, pinecones, peanut butter, pretzel sticks, and clam shells. Each night, it is illuminated by twinkling solar lights for a touch of magic and festive cheer.
As you approach the southern tip of the island at 59th Street, look for the South End Tree. Donated by Ponderosa Tree Farm, locals can drop off their shells and take in a photo-op for lasting memories. As you approach the well-decorated path towards the beach, keep an eye out for a large bin where you can drop off any non-perishable food items to help individuals in need throughout our community.
With the holidays in full swing, we hope you take in all that this season has to offer. Let us know what trees you enjoyed seeing.
Photos by Steffen Klenk
