CAPE MAY — As fall enters full bloom, many wonderful events are happening locally. The region offers many special opportunities and activities for everyone to enjoy this autumn.
In the heart of West Cape May, Rea’s Farm Market hosts many weekly family-friendly events. Hop on a hayride for a scenic spin around the farm, available on weekends in October with no reservation.
Farm-goers can enjoy a New Jersey Falconry Experience from 10 a.m. to noon every Tuesday. The event requires registration and payment. The two-hour educational program provides a brief overview of the history of falconry, a Q&A period and a free hawk flight walk.
On Friday nights through Halloween, join the community for “Friday Nights at the Farm.” The event features music, food, vendors and fun in rain or shine.
Friday night event-goers can enjoy the free celebration, with a smattering of offerings including Jersey Fresh produce, food trucks, artisan vendors with one-of-a-kind items, local beer, wine and spirits, and the farm kitchen for snacks, dinner and drinks. Visit reasfarm.cm for more information.
The Cape May Bird Observatory is celebrating 50 years, and its 2026 Cape May Fall Festival runs from Oct. 15-18. Registration is required. It includes indoor and outdoor workshops, guided field trips, shopping with nature-themed vendors, viewing stations, a kickoff party, a reception, keynote presentation and a book signing featuring Dr. Laurie Goodrich. Special events can be added to the registration for an additional fee.
Known for its many events and Cape May-centric exhibits, Cape May MAC (Museums + Art + Culture) has a plethora of fall offerings.
Visitors to the Emlen Physick Estate at 1048 Washington St. can enjoy free admission to a special Halloween exhibit. The Department 56 miniature-sized exhibit is a collection of hand-painted, lighted holiday village displays, figurines and collectibles.
Perfect for those who love the Dept. 56 Dickens Village at Christmas, the Halloween collection features a witch’s brew of spooky houses, bizarre characters, bats, cats and pumpkins galore.
The collection includes nearly 100 pieces and accessories on display in the Physick House’s enclosed entrance porch. Admission is free from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Oct. 31.
Cape May visitors and residents alike can enjoy all of MAC’s Halloween happenings throughout October. Visit capemaymac.org for more information.
By RACHEL SHUBIN/Special to the Star and Wave
