Have you been naughty or nice this summer? Every July, Shore towns from Cape May to Atlantic City get a jump on holiday cheer with Christmas in July. This whimsical mid-summer tradition brings Santa Claus, festive treats and merry events to the beach, proving that the magic of Christmas doesn’t need snow to sparkle. Throughout July, towns and businesses up and down the coast host themed parties, shopping events, family activities and even bar crawls, giving locals and vacationers a chance to celebrate the season with a sunny twist.
Here’s a look at how the Shore will be decking the halls this month:
July 24: Tennessee Avenue Christmas Party and The Point in Sea Isle City
Today, July 24, Tennessee Avenue in Atlantic City launches its multi-day Christmas in July celebration with Holiday Musical Bingo at Bar32. Meanwhile, The Point brings its Winter Blast to Sea Isle City for more games, contests and holiday fun from 5 to 9 p.m.
July 25: Anchorage Tavern, Cape May Crafts Fair and Tennessee Avenue continues
Tomorrow, July 25, brings even more festive cheer:
The Anchorage Tavern in Somers Point will serve up Christmas-themed cocktails all day, like the “Summer Sleigh Ride” and “Santa’s Beachside Martini.”
Across the bay at the Cape May Lighthouse, the Christmas in July Crafts & Collectibles Show runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring high-quality handmade goods from artisans, free kids’ crafts and yard games, a visit from Santa (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.), and a Wetlands Touch Tank from 10 a.m. to noon.
Back in Atlantic City, Tennessee Avenue continues its holiday-themed weekend with an Ugly Hawaiian Shirt Jitney Tour to Little Water Distillery, Bar32, Cardinal Restaurant and Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall. At Bar32, learn how to make some festive cocktails at the Christmas Cocktail Demonstration.
July 26: The Point in Wildwood
On Saturday, July 26, The Point brings its Winter Blast to Wildwood from 3 to 6 p.m. for one last round of contests, music, and family-friendly fun.
July 27: The festivities on Tennessee Avenue concludes
On Sunday, July 27, Tennessee Avenue wraps up its Christmas in July festivities with a cheerful holiday tea party at noon at Bar32 and a free outdoor screening of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” at Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall at 8 p.m.
July 28: Ventnor Ski Beach Movie Night
Finally, Monday, July 28, brings the month’s celebrations to a close in Ventnor. Ski Beach will host a special Summer Movie Night starting at 5:30 p.m., featuring The Grinch at 6 p.m. and The Christmas Chronicles at 7:30 p.m. Guests are encouraged to don festive attire — beachy or otherwise — while enjoying food trucks, sweet treats and shopping under the stars.
Perfectly timed at the midpoint of summer, Christmas in July invites everyone to pause, have fun, and create lasting memories — proving that the spirit of the holidays can shine bright no matter the season. Besides — sand is better than snow any time of the year.
Sarah is a South Jersey native with a passion for writing. She’s contributed to Shore Local since its founding, and cares deeply for homegrown journalism and celebrating communities.
