Holiday Tradition Grows Bigger with Congress Hall’s Largest Tree

Issue #523

November 23, 2025

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In This Cape May Local Scoop Issue…

 📆 Cape May Events

☀️ Cape May Local Weather

🦃Holiday Tradition Grows Bigger with Congress Hall’s Largest Tree

🎅🏻Thanksgiving Tradition Returns: TJ Hunt Turkey Trot Set for Wildwood Crest

🎎 Live Nativity to Bring Christmas Story to Life in Sea Isle City

Cape May Local Scoop’s Events Are Sponsored By: Cape May Antiques

👇 Here’s what’s going on in the Cape May Local Area👇  

  November 23

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Holiday Tradition Grows Bigger with Congress Hall’s Largest Tree

Cape May’s iconic Congress Hall has officially ushered in the holiday season with its largest Christmas tree to date—a towering 40-foot Norway spruce that now stands proudly on the Grand Lawn. The massive tree, which weighs approximately 4,000 pounds, arrived early Friday morning, November 21, following a brief transportation delay caused by a mechanical issue with the delivery truck.

The tree was donated by Patrick Delvin of Nutley, Essex County, whose family planted it in their front yard back in 2000. Over the years, the spruce grew so large that it had to be removed—and this year, it was chosen as the centerpiece of one of South Jersey’s most beloved holiday traditions. Delvin and his family were treated to a complimentary stay at Congress Hall and will enjoy front-row access to the highly anticipated tree lighting ceremony on December 5.

Securing the perfect Christmas tree is an annual mission for Congress Hall. Each year, the resort seeks out the tallest and most majestic evergreen within a three-hour radius. Once selected, the resort fully coordinates and funds the cutting, wrapping, and transport of the tree—this year, involving both the in-house operations team and outside contractors due to the tree’s size and location.

Decorating the tree is no small feat. Crews will spend several days adorning it with over 5,000 lights and hundreds of ornaments. The final result will be unveiled during the December 5 tree lighting ceremony, a marquee event in Cape May that typically draws between 3,000 and 4,000 guests. The Grand Lawn will be transformed into a festive wonderland, complete with a vendor village, carousel, food stands, and a holiday choir filling the night with music.

The tree not only marks the start of Christmas at Congress Hall but also symbolizes the dedication and spirit that go into making the resort a magical holiday destination year after year.

Thanksgiving Tradition Returns: TJ Hunt Turkey Trot Set for Wildwood Crest

 Wildwood Crest is set to host a heartwarming Thanksgiving tradition as the TJ Hunt Turkey Trot returns on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at 9 a.m. The annual event is meant to honor the memory of TJ Hunt whose life was cut short when a motorist veered off the road and struck him as he worked near Highway 13  on June 26, 2020. In the wake of this heartbreaking incident, TJ’s family has committed themselves to preserving the spirit of kindness, compassion, and generosity that defined him. The event, organized by the TJ Hunt Memorial Foundation, will take place at Crest Pier and invites participants of all ages to join in either a 5K run or a 1-mile walk along the scenic shoreline.

This annual gathering is more than just a fitness event—it’s a celebration of community and a tribute to the enduring legacy of TJ Hunt. Proceeds from the Turkey Trot help fund the Foundation’s initiatives, including college scholarships, outreach to families facing hardship, and programs that promote kindness.

Open to runners and walkers alike, the Turkey Trot provides a meaningful and energetic start to the holiday, blending gratitude with community connection. Attendees can enjoy the fresh coastal air, festive atmosphere, and the spirit of giving that defines Thanksgiving morning in Wildwood Crest.

To learn more or to register, visit tjhuntmemorialfund.com or call 609-780-4223.

 

Live Nativity to Bring Christmas Story to Life in Sea Isle City

 Sea Isle City’s St. Joseph Catholic Church is once again bringing the story of Christmas to life with its annual live nativity scene, a cherished tradition now in its fourth year. The festive event will take place on Saturday, December 20, 2025, beginning at 5 p.m. at the church, located at 43rd Street and Landis Avenue.

The evening will start inside the church sanctuary, where a narrator will guide the audience through the biblical story of Jesus' birth. Parishioners of all ages, dressed in traditional costumes, will bring the scene to life through expressive mime and gesture.

Following the indoor portion, guests will move outside to a recreated barnyard stable, complete with hay and an authentic atmosphere meant to resemble Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago. The outdoor tableau will feature Mary, Joseph, the three Wise Men, shepherds, and angels—all portrayed by parishioners.

Enhancing the realism and festive spirit, live animals including camels, donkeys, sheep, and goats will be part of the manger scene.

Joseph’s live nativity has become a highlight of Sea Isle’s holiday season, attracting visitors and locals alike. After the performance, attendees are invited to enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and cookies, adding a sweet and cozy touch to the evening’s celebration.

Which major waterway is the Cape May Canal a part of?

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Answer to the November 22nd Trivia Question

Cape May is often considered one of the best locations in the U.S. for observing what Which group of Native Americans were the first known inhabitants of the Cape May area?

A) Lenni Lenape
B) Powhatan
C) Iroquois
D) Shawnee

Answer: A) Lenni Lenape

The Lenni Lenape, specifically the Kechemeche tribe, were the first known inhabitants of the Cape May area. They would spend summers there, fishing and hunting before returning to their inland villages.

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