The Wildwoods Christmas in July 2026 Event List
Who says you have to wait until December for Christmas?
On Saturday, July 25, the Wildwoods will once again celebrate Christmas in July with festive events taking place across the island. From Surfing Santas and Santa Claus on the beach to a golf cart parade and an evening boat parade, there will be plenty of free family-friendly activities to enjoy throughout the day.
North Wildwood Christmas in July with Santa Claus
Santa Claus is trading his sleigh for the beach as he makes several stops along the North Wildwood shoreline during the annual Christmas in July with Santa Claus event.
Families can take photos with Santa, enjoy candy canes, sing along to live holiday music, and participate in festive beach activities throughout the day. Visitors are encouraged to decorate their beach blankets, wear Christmas-themed beach attire, and join in on reindeer games while celebrating the holiday spirit under the summer sun.
The free event is presented by the North Wildwood Beach Patrol. Approximate times and beach locations for Santa’s appearances will be announced the morning of the event.
Surfing Santas
One of the Wildwoods’ most recognizable Christmas in July traditions returns as dozens of Santas head into the ocean during the annual Surfing Santas event at the North Wildwood Beach Patrol Headquarters at 15th Avenue Beach.
Also See: New ‘The Pelican’ Event Venue Coming to North Wildwood
Registration begins at 8 a.m., with surfing, paddleboarding, and boogie boarding activities getting underway at 9 a.m. Participants are encouraged to wear festive costumes while showing off their skills in the water, while spectators can cheer them on from the beach. Awards will be presented for the best costumes, and registration is free for all participants.
Wildwood’s Christmas in July Golf Cart Parade
Wildwood’s 5th Annual Christmas in July Golf Cart Parade combines holiday cheer with classic Jersey Shore summer fun as decorated golf carts travel along the Wildwoods Boardwalk.
Participants are encouraged to get creative by decorating their carts with lights, ornaments, inflatable Santas, tropical-themed decorations, and other festive displays. Check-in and judging take place at the Wildwoods Convention Center semi-circle before the parade begins at 10 a.m.
Golf carts will be judged on creativity, holiday spirit, and overall presentation, with trophies awarded for first, second, and third place.
Wildwood Crest Christmas in July Festival & Boat Parade
The celebration continues into the evening with the Wildwood Crest Christmas in July Festival & Boat Parade along Sunset Lake.
Beginning at 6 p.m., visitors can enjoy live music, magic and variety shows, face painting, free photos with Santa, food vendors, and activities for the entire family. The festival has become one of Wildwood Crest’s signature summer events and draws hundreds of spectators each year.
At approximately 8:45 p.m., the highlight of the evening begins as nearly 40 decorated boats and kayaks cruise through Sunset Lake during the annual Christmas in July Boat Parade. Participants decorate their vessels with lights and holiday displays while competing for prizes recognizing the best-decorated boats, creating a unique Christmas celebration on the water.
If you are going to be on the beach when santa stops by, be sure to shoot us a message with your photo!