What Cape May is like in the winter

Now in my fourth winter season of not working officially, people often ask, what do I do? Or what is Cape May like in the winter?

Both are great questions. You might think Cape May is quiet and rolls up the sidewalks in the winter. On weekends I see people drive around as though they are taking stock of the changes. I think of them returning home to tell friends or family what Cape May is like in the winter.

Last night, I thought of this blog concept while walking on an empty Washington Street Mall. This would not be the first time I wrote about Cape May in the off-season. Of course, all work and no play make for a dull winter. So this past weekend, we partied pretty hard at the annual Robert Burns Supper.

“There’s never been a greater winter event in Cape May! We love getting dressed up in our Kilts and Tartans and going to The Look Out, which is beautifully decorated with a warm feeling for gorgeous cocktails and appetizers in the Ferry Terminal, followed by a wonderful dinners, and dancing to a variety of fun music by a live band. We always go home with a smile on our faces knowing that we’ve participated in one of the cultural events of the year.” Me.

This past weekend ranks as one of the best experiences the Exit Zero team has created. Over 300 people dressed in their finest trekked to the Cape May Ferry Terminal building. With so many people, the DRBA had to provide additional police for the event. Even the police enjoyed what they experienced.

Great food. Great table companions and fantastic music to listen to and dance to were all part of the evening.

Now Back to Work for Some of You

This winter, multiple projects are underway throughout town. The public sector and the private sector are feverishly busy meeting spring deadlines.  The City of Cape May is installing the new Firehouse’s roof and doors. The project is proceeding nicely.

Over on the promenade, the city is also installing decorative arches. Paid for in part ( for the most part) by the Fund for Cape May private donors. The arches are a throwback to an earlier age when the dress codes were much more conservative than today.

As far as we know, the only cost to taxpayers was the $40,000 plus for concrete footings. Maintenance and removal of the utility poles expenses are to be determined.

The private sector is no less busy this year. The Beach Shack, a Cape Resorts Group operation, is adding an addition to the west side of the property. Some guests will get the treat of being in brand-new ocean-facing motel rooms this summer. Work there is steady.

A few blocks down the beach, the Avondale is completing the refurbishment of balconies and railings.

The Camelot Motel on Howard street got a new roof, and siding is being installed. A facelift for returning guests.

There are very few secrets in Cape May. By now, everyone knows Icona Resorts purchased the Capri on Madison Avenue. The property is getting an overhaul, which might include a new color scheme for the exterior.

It’s not just hotels and motels.

The private sector also includes some serious work on residential projects. On my Instagram last week, I posted a photo of a worker almost 40 feet in the air, peeling a protective coating off a metal roof.

And just today, Oyster Bay posted on their Instagram how the remodel they are doing is coming along. Also, the Mad Batter Restaurant is back today with live music featuring the Squares.  So when someone tells you what Cape May is like in winter, please check your source.