Cape May’s April 2013 Calendar of Events

CAPE MAY – Cape May’s April 2013 Calendar of Events, sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC) through April 14:
“Celebrating Community Service: Black Fraternal, Social and Civic Organizations of Cape May County.”
This Carriage House Gallery exhibit sponsored by the Center for Community Arts (CCA) explores the significance of black fraternal, social and civic organizations in African American social life. Because the African American community is often ignored by mainstream organizations, the GEMS, the Masons, Eastern Stars and the Black USO – to name a few – have emerged with the sole purpose of enhancing the lives of African Americans. In addition, black organizations can serve specific needs that only pertain to African American families. Hundreds exist nationwide with local chapters in cities and towns. The focus of this exhibit is the black organizations of Cape May County. Admission is free. Exhibit is open daily through April 14. Hours vary. Sponsored by the Center for Community Arts (CCA) in association with the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information on the exhibit call CCA at 609-884-7525. For information on hours call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
April 19-21:
Girlfriends Getaway Weekend: It’s time to dig out your spring wardrobe, call your best girlfriends and head to Cape May for a weekend of food, wine, shopping, fashions and fun. Join the Friends of the Physick Estate for an Upton Abbey Tea, inspired bythe popular PBS series, “Downton Abbey,” in the Carriage House Café & Tearoom, 1048 Washington St., on April 19 at 3 p.m. Admission is $25 for Friends and $30 for non-members. Then, on April 20 at 3 p.m., sniff, swirl and sip during a Winery Cellar Tour & Tasting at Cape May Winery; admission is $20. Also on Saturday, enjoy a Cape May Wine Trail – an afternoon that includes lunch and trolley transportation to local vineyards for wine tastings; $75 includes a wine tasting glass. On April 21 at 9:30 a.m., it’s Brunch, Bingo & Lace. Laugh along with your girlfriends as you play a little bingo, enjoy a fashion show by Lace Silhouettes/Cotton Company and win some great prizes at the Inn of Cape May. Admission is $25. Some events are limited and reservations are required. Events may be purchased separately. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
April 19:
Friends of the Physick Estate Upton Abbey Tea: Join the Friends of the Physick Estatefor thisafternoon tea inspired bythe popular PBS series, “Downton Abbey,” in the Carriage House Café & Tearoom, 1048 Washington St. at 3 p.m. There will be gifts for those who come in period dress appropriate to the historical time-frame of the series along with “Downton Abbey” trivia for entertainment. Music from the series will set the mood as you enjoy an Afternoon Tea, including scones, tea breads and tea sandwiches. Guests who put forward their best British accent will be eligible for a prize. Admission is $25 for Friends and $30 for non-members Admission is $25 for Friends and $30 for non-members. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
April 20:
First Annual Friends of the Lighthouse Pig Roast: Join the Friends of the Cape May Lighthouse for a traditional pig roast to raise funds in support of educational interpretation of the lighthouse. April 20 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Moose Lodge, 569 Seashore Road, Erma. Entertainment by Twelve Strings. Admission is $20. Sponsored by the Friends of the Cape May Lighthouse, an affinity group of the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Friends of the World War II Tower present “Focus on Fort Miles and other World War II Atlantic Coast Defenses”: Hear Dr. Gary Wray, president of the Fort Miles Historical Association, and Dr. Terry McGovern, of the Coast Defense Study Group, who will discuss fortifications along the Atlantic Coast during World War II. Cape May Lutheran Church, 509 Pittsburgh Ave. April 20, 1 p.m. Become a Friend of the Tower and admission is free. Non-members admission is $5. Sponsored by the Friends of the World War II Tower, an affinity group of the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Cape May Wine Trail: Spend the day visiting and sampling the unique tastes of two of Cape May County’s wineries. Board the MAC trolley at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. Then enjoy lunch at Aleathea’s Restaurant at the Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean St. After lunch, the trolley will take you to Hawk Haven Winery and Natali Vineyards and the new Willow Creek Winery to learn about viniculture and visit the tasting rooms. Includes lunch, wine tastings at each vineyard, and wine tasting glass. Limited event; reserve early! April 20 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. $75 per person. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information or to make reservations, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
April 21:
Brunch, Bingo & Lace: C’mon girls … this is all about you! Leave the kids and your significant other behind and join us for a morning of brunch, bingo and a fashion show just for you from the lovely ladies at Cape May’s Lace Silhouettes and the Cotton Company. Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean St. $25 includes brunch buffet, fashion show, bingo and eligibility for prizes. 9:30 a.m. April 21. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
April 26:
Lighthouse Full Moon Climb: Take advantage of the light of the full moon and let it guide you up the 199 stairs to the starry top of the Cape May Lighthouse, located in Cape May Point State Park. Admission to the Visitors’ Orientation Center and the ground floor of the Lighthouse is free. Tower admission is free for Friends of the Lighthouse members. Non-members price is $7 for adults, $3 for children (ages 3-12). April 26, 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Non-members who join the group will get free admission to this event as well as future “Friends” events. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
April 26-May 5:
Cape May’s Spring Festival: Celebrate the arrival of Springtime in America’s first seaside resort with Private Homes Tours, Ghost Tours, Murder Mystery Dinners and Luncheons, Civil War Vintage Dance Workshops and Ball, food and wine events, living history programs and much, much more. April 26-May 5. Co-sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC) and the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Cape May. For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
April 26-Nov. 10:
Carriage House Gallery Exhibit: “Cape May’s Chalfonte Hotel: A Living National Landmark.” Built by Civil War hero Henry Sawyer, taken prisoner 150 years ago (1863), the Chalfonte Hotel has hosted guests continuously for over 137 years. Home to heroes, heroines, heartaches, legends, love affairs, unforgettable characters and nationally famous cooks, the hotel’s intriguing history comes alive in this exhibit at the Carriage House Gallery at the Physick Estate guest curated by Karen Fox. Free exhibit opening April 26 at 7 p.m. Open daily. Free admission. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
April 27:
Gaslight Trolley Tour: Enjoyan evening guided trolley tour along Beach Avenue and through parts of the historic district of Cape May and learn about Cape May history, Victorian architecture and seaside lore. Offered April 27 8:30 p.m. $10 for adults, $7 for children (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Spring Festival Crafts & Antiques Show: The Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., becomes an outdoor marketplace as vendors from throughout the Northeast display their wares. New in 2013! Beer Garden on the grounds of the Physick Estate. Free admission to the grounds. Free parking available. April 27. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Private Homes Tour: Step inside Cape May’s private residences, which are not normally open to the public. Homes featured on the tour range from the Victorian era to the 21st century. Adults $15; children (3-12) $10. April 27, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Full Moon Ghost Hunt with Ghost-One: Ghost-One, an experienced Pennsylvania paranormal research team, is hosting a full moon ghost hunt at Cape May’s original haunted house, the Physick Estate. Try out some of Ghost-One’s investigating tools and do EVP (electronic voice phenomena) readings inside the mansion. Visit the Carriage House for dessert and to discuss your findings. April 27, 7:45 p.m. $30 per person. Limited to 50 people. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Murder Mystery Dinner: The Impromptu Players invade the Carriage House Café & Tearoom at the Physick Estate where they set the scene for the new mystery, “A Foul Weather Fiend.” Interact with the cast of likely suspects and try to solve the mystery as you enjoy a four-course dinner. Admission $45. April 27 at 7 p.m. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
The Dr. Is In: Meet Dr. Emlen Physick on his Estate’s grounds at 1048 Washington St. from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 27. Opt for a guided tour of his house with its new theme in 2013: “Victorians Luxuries.” $10 for adults, $5 for children (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Ghosts of the Lighthouse Trolley Tour: Take a trolley tour through parts of West Cape May to the Cape May Lighthouse and hear tales of ghostly activity along the way. Tour-goers will meet the Lighthouse Keeper who will relate a ghostly tale inside the Cape May Light. Climb the 199 steps to the top. April 27 at 8 p.m. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
April 27 and 28:
Around Cape Island Cruise: Board the Cape May Whale Watcher for a sightseeing cruise around the island of Cape May. View the majestic Victorian architecture and enjoy tales of local heroes, legends and history. Offered April 27 and 28 at 10 a.m. Purchase tickets in advance at the Washington Street Mall information Booth or at the Hill House office at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. Co-sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC) and the Cape May Whale Watcher. For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Mansions by the Sea Trolley Tour: This tour features a century of beachfront development, from Victorian cottages of the 1870s through the most up-to-date of today’s housing. It includes some of the most magnificent structures ever erected in Cape May. Tour offered April 27 and 28 at 12:45 p.m. Tour takes about 45 minutes and costs $10 for adults and $7 for children (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Welcome to Cape May Trolley Tour: Discover points of interest, activities and special events sponsored by both MAC and other non-profit organizations throughout Cape May. It’s a perfect introduction to town. Offered April 27 and 28 at 11:45 a.m. $10 for adults, $7 for children (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Cape May Whale & Dolphin Cruise: Board the 110-foot Cape May Whale Watcher for a three-hour cruise and the chance to see humpback whales, dozens of bottlenose dolphins, unusual sea birds or rare sea turtles. Guaranteed marine mammal sightings! Purchase tickets in advance at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth. Offered April 27 and 28 at 1 p.m. Co-sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC) and the Cape May Whale Watcher. For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Vintage Dance Weekend: Kick up your heels as they did in Cape May during its Victorian heyday with this Civil War themed event. Vintage Dance Instructors will teach you the traditional dances of the 19th century at a Vintage Dance Workshop, April 27 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Then, put your newfound expertise to good use at a costumed Vintage Ball with live music of the period by Spare Parts at 8 p.m. on Sat. night. A Tea Dance, also with live music by Spare Parts, is on April 28 at 1 p.m. Victorian dress encouraged but not required. All events are held at the historic Chalfonte Hotel, 301 Howard St. An all-inclusive package is $95, the workshops are $45, the Vintage Ball is $35, and the Tea Dance is $25. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
April 28:
Murder Mystery Luncheon: The Impromptu Players invade the dining room at the Inn of Cape May where they set the scene for the new mystery, “A Foul Weather Fiend.” Interact with the cast of likely suspects and try to solve the mystery as you enjoy a three-course luncheon. Luncheon admission $30. April 28 at 1 p.m. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
April 29-May 3:
A Victorian Primer Lecture Series: Get to know Victorian Cape May with a series of informative lectures, programs and seminars at the Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean St. Local experts and educators bring the fascinating seaside town to life as they introduce you to Victorian social history, customs and traditions. Enjoy an evening of Victorian music, a discussion on Cape May’s architecture, a Victorian spiritualism lecture and much more. Programs: $10 each. April 29-May 3. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
April 30:
Luncheon and Temperance Debate: To drink or not to drink, that is the dispute between saloonkeeper Patrick Collins and Jennie Wales, staunch advocate of the temperance movement. Join Dr. Physick as he attempts to maintain decorum during this spirited debate. 12:30 p.m. April 30. Includes luncheon at Carriage House Café & Tearoom, 1048 Washington St. Admission $25. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Ongoing Tours and Events:
Cape May Family Treasure Hunt: Discover the fun of exploring Cape May and uncovering its architectural elements from a kid’s perspective. Each packet is $5 and contains a clues sheet and map that will take you on a self-guided discovery tour, set to your own pace (answer sheet also included). Available in the Hill House office at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., during regular hours of operation. Also available at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth, Co-sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC) and Preservation New Jersey. For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Cape May Bike Tour: Explore Cape May on bicycle and discover its history at your own pace with this booklet as your guide. Stop along the historic streets of Cape May, West Cape May and Cape May Point and read about over 50 of the area’s landmark architectural treasures depicted for easy identification with photos. Booklet includes suggested routes and a map with descriptions. $5 per booklet. Available at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth, Washington Street Mall at Ocean Street, and the Carriage House Visitors Center at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Cape May Lighthouse, Oil House and Museum Shop: 1859 structure with 199 steps to watch gallery for a panoramic view of the Jersey Cape and Atlantic Ocean. Museum Shop carries souvenirs, books, videos and other maritime items. Open daily 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cape May Point State Park, Lower Township. Admission to the Visitors’ Orientation Center and the ground floor of the Lighthouse is free. Tower admission is $7 for adults, $3 for children (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Carriage House Café & Tearoom: Enjoygracious, yet casual, dining at the Carriage House on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. with a café menu that includes signature salads, wraps and tea sandwiches, as well as homemade soups and quiche, plus the popular Classic Tea Luncheon and elegant Afternoon Tea. If you have a busy schedule, everything is available for takeout, too. Re-opens for the season April 26; open daily 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For reservations call 609-884-5111. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Carriage House Gallery Shop: Located in the Carriage House on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., the Carriage House Gallery Shop is stocked with unique themed items, from teapots, teas, tea related merchandise, jewelry, books, and decorative items, all with that distinctive Cape May style. Open daily. Hours vary. The Carriage House Gallery is fully-accessible and proceeds benefit the on-going restoration and preservation efforts of the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Combination Trolley/Physick Estate Tours: Guided trolley tour of Cape May’s Historic District, followed by a guided tour of Cape May’s only Victorian house museum, the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. Offered daily. Hours vary. Tour leaves from Washington Street Mall Information Booth. $18 for adults, $10 for children (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org
Emlen Physick Estate Tour: Enjoy this entertaining and educational guided tour of Cape May’s only Victorian house museum, the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate at 1048 Washington St. with the new tour theme beginning April 26, “Victorian Luxuries.” Offered daily. Hours vary. $10 for adults, $5 for children (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Ghosts of Cape May Trolley Tour: Board a MAC trolley tour for a 45-minute evening ride through the haunted streets of Cape May. The paranormal findings of ghost writer Craig McManus come alive as your guide translates McManus’ spooky stories. Ride past the flickering gas street lamps, the haunted properties of Cape May and experience the spine-tingling tales exposed by McManus. Offered Saturdays, through April 20 at 8:30 p.m.; Fridays, April 12 and April 19 at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m.; April 26, at 7:45 p.m. and 8:45 p.m. and April 27 at 8:15 p.m. and 9 p.m. $10 for adults and $7 for children (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Historic District Trolley Tours: Get acquainted with Cape May on a trolley tour as knowledgeable guides present entertaining and educational stories about the nation’s oldest seashore resort. Offered daily. Hours vary. Tours leave from the Washington Street Mall Information Booth, Washington Street Mall at Ocean Street. $10 for adults and $7 for children (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Historic Haunts Combo: Combine the Ghosts of Cape May trolley tour with a visit to the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate, where you will visit a home séance room of the 1890s and learn of the Victorians’ fascination with spiritualism. Saturdays at 7:15 p.m. $20 for adults, $15 for children (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information or to make reservations, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Self-Guided Audio Tour of Cape May: Discover the Historic District of Victorian Cape May at your own pace with Acoustiguide Inform hand-held units. Tour comes complete with a map and index for 96 historic buildings on 69 sites. Available in the Hill House office at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. Offered daily 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Rental fee is $10 per unit. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
Self-guided Wine Trail: Spend the afternoon touring the wineries of Cape May County. Visit Natali Vineyards and Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery and taste wines at each. Admission is $8 and includes a map with the wineries listed and a tasting glass. Offered 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Purchase tickets in advance at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth or the Hill House office or the Carriage House Visitor’s Center at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., during hours of operation. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org
Self-guided Wine & Brewery Trail: What’s brewing in Cape May? Some great spirits, as you’ll find out on this tour of two area wineries, Natali Vineyards and Hawk Haven Vineyard and Winery, plus the new Cape May Brewing Company. Take a tour at each stop and sample some of their products. Admission is $13 and includes map with directions. Offered 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. Purchase tickets in advance at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth or the Hill House office or the Carriage House Visitor’s Center at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., during hours of operation. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org
Winery Cellar Tour and Tasting: Spend an afternoon at the award-winning Cape May Winery. Includes a barrel tasting accompanied by cheese and fruit and a complimentary tasting glass. Offered at 3 p.m. Saturdays. $20 per person. Purchase tickets in advance at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth or the Hill House office or the Carriage House Visitor’s Center at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., during hours of operation. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.
World War II Tower Lookout Museum and Memorial: (Fire Control Tower No. 23) A Museum and Memorial. Fire Control Tower No. 23 on Sunset Boulevard is New Jersey’s last freestanding World War II tower, part of the immense Harbor Defense of the Delaware system known as Fort Miles. After the award-winning restoration, visitors can climb to the 6th floor spotting gallery while reliving the homeland defense efforts during World War II. The ground floor of the tower is fully accessible. Open Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. $5 for adults, $3 for children (ages 3-12). Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.