“Christmas in July” Celebration Enjoyed, But Cut Short Due to Weather

SEA ISLE CITY – They had to pull a few strings, but the members of the Sea Isle City Chamber of Commerce and Revitalization were able to convince Santa Claus to leave his busy workshop at the North Pole and make a special summertime visit to the Jersey Shore on July 19 during Sea Isle’s “Christmas in July” celebration. With hundreds of children and their family members gathered at Sea Isle’s Excursion Park, the Jolly Old Elf arrived at the event wearing appropriate attire for July, including a Christmas-themed Hawaiian shirt, shorts and, of course, his signature red Santa’s cap.
The evening began when representatives from Rita’s Water Ice of Sea Isle City arrived at the park to distribute free samples of their popular icy treats. Then, as Christmas music filled the air, Santa arrived and began speaking with the children – asking them if they have been good boys and girls and inquiring how they were enjoying their summers. While parents were snapping photos in front of Excursion Park’s Band Shell, Santa presented each of the children with gifts, including free ride passes at Gillian’s Funland Amusement Park, located in Sea Isle’s Marina District. Santa also reminded the children to work hard in school and obey their parents because he will be returning to this area again at Christmastime.
Unfortunately, the evening was cut short when thunder clouds rolled into the area, resulting in the cancellation of the night’s scheduled outdoor movie, Elf. Nonetheless, guests walked away smiling and singing Christmas carols, much to the delight of the event’s organizers.
“We were excited about the overwhelming turn-out, and it was great to see the children’s faces as they were greeted by Santa Claus,” said Chamber of Commerce President Christopher Glancey. “Thankfully, everyone was able to personally meet Santa before the weather turned. We look forward to hosting this event again next year and making it an annual gathering in Sea Isle City.”
For additional information about other events taking place this summer in Sea Isle City, visit www.seaislecitynj.us. To learn more about the Sea Isle City Chamber of Commerce & Revitalization, visit www.seaislechamber.com or www.seaislerevitalization.com.