Cape May’s gems sparkle on annual Candlelight Tours

This year’s Christmas Candlelight House Tours, sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC), is the 35th anniversary of Cape May’s oldest and most beloved holiday tour.
Experience the sights and sounds of an old-fashioned Christmas on the first Christmas Candlelight House Tour of the holiday season, Dec. 6 from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Catch the spirit of the season on this self-guided tour as Christmas carolers and strolling musicians fill the streets of Cape May, while homes, inns, B&B’s, and churches welcome tourgoers into the decorated interiors of their architectural gems, complete with all the trimmings and the chance to see collections of vintage holiday decorations.
Several historic Victorian landmarks are featured on this tour.
Christmas Candlelight House Tours also include a visit to the Emlen Physick Estate at 1048 Washington St., Cape May’s only Victorian house museum, authentically decorated for the holidays, and “An Old-Fashioned Christmas” exhibit in the Carriage House Gallery, which features holiday traditions through the years complete with vintage Santas, model trains, trees, toys, and more.
Free shuttle service on a heated trolley is provided, and two conveniently located hospitality centers will be available during the evening, allowing visitors to rest and enjoy warm beverages and home-baked goodies.
The Carriage House Tearoom and Cafe at the Emlen Physick Estate and the Parish House of the Episcopal Church of the Advent, Franklin and Washington streets, will be open from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. to serve warm refreshments.
Admission to the Christmas Candlelight House Tour is $25 for adults and $20 for children (ages 3 to 12).
The tour is limited; it is strongly recommended that tickets be reserved in advance at the Hill House Office at the Physick Estate or by calling 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278.
Any remaining tickets on the day of the tour may be purchased at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth at Ocean Street.
Additional Christmas Candlelight House Tours will be held on Dec. 13 and 27.
MAC membership is open to all.
For more information about MAC’s year-round tours, festivals, special events and many volunteer opportunities, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278, or visit MAC’s website at www.capemaymac.org.