Jersey Shore Towns Get in the Spirit with Christmas in July

The Jersey Shore is getting into the spirit of the holiday season during the summer with extended Christmas in July celebrations. They will take place from Tuesday, July 22, through Sunday, July 27. 

From Wednesday, July 23 to Friday, July 25, North Wildwood will host its first Christmas House and Business Decorating Contest. Judging for the best-decorated houses will be on July 24, and winners will be announced on July 25.

On Saturday, July 26, the fourth annual Christmas in July Festival and Boat Parade will take place at 6 p.m. along Sunset Lake, near Atlanta and New Jersey avenues in Wildwood Crest. Guests will enjoy live music with Jamison performing holiday-themed songs, along with pop and rock hits. Magic and variety shows, face painting, free photos with Santa, and more will be offered.

The event concludes with the popular Christmas in July Boat Parade in Sunset Lake at 8:45 p.m. Approximately 40 boats decorated for Christmas season will travel through Sunset Lake for all attendees to photograph and view. Those who want to register a boat or kayak for the parade are asked to email christmasjulyboatparade@gmail.com. Prizes will be awarded to the best-decorated boats.

Wildwood's Christmas in July Golf Cart Parade will take place on Saturday, July 26. Residents and visitors can decorate their golf carts in holiday cheer and join the parade along the Wildwoods Boardwalk. Golf carts are sure to feature all manner of twinkling lights, inflatable Santas, beach balls in Santa hats, and tropical elves.

Registration runs from 8 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. at the Wildwoods Convention Center semi-circle, followed by the parade kickoff at 10 a.m. Golf carts will be judged on creativity, holiday spirit, and overall presentation. Trophies will be awarded for first, second, and third places. Winners will be announced during the afternoon on the J. Byrne Community Center Facebook page. Trophies can be picked up at the Rec Center at 401 W. Youngs Ave.