Community Update
From The Club
The Here, the Now, and the New Year Ahead
Nature Corner
with Bay Creek Preserve Ranger, Stan Osmolenski
Chef’s Corner with Bay Creek Executive Chef, Christian Lofland
Special Holiday Guide:
Chasing Fall and Winter Magic on the Eastern Shore
Cape Charles & Eastern Shore Holiday Happenings 2024
BOBBY MASTERS PRESIDENT. BAY CREEK DEVELOPMENT
As we prepare to complete our fifth year as Developer of Bay Creek, I wanted to take a moment to reflect with you on what’s been accomplished here since 2020 and to share our plans to ensure an exciting future for the development. Our mission since day one has been to foster a sustainable, vibrant and thriving community, and with recent accolades such as ‘One Of The Top 100 Communities In The U.S.’ from Ideal-Living Magazine, we know we’re on the right track!
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By every measure, the past five years have been historic ones for real estate at Bay Creek. The surge in demand for retirement homes and second homes in drive-to destinations that began emerging in mid-2020 has continued to grow and strengthen. This demand has been driven in large part by the environment we find ourselves in today—the continued trend towards remote working, the political division in our country, growing concern over the economy, turmoil overseas—all of these factors are driving people to focus on their families and their true aspirations in life. The “urban migration” from large cities is real, and places like Bay Creek have been identified by prospective buyers as a safe and life-fulfilling sanctuary for the future.
According to an article in Fortune Magazine , the pandemic of 2020-2021 didn’t just upend the working world, it also brought about some seismic shifts in the residential real estate market. “The pandemic stopped a lot of people in their tracks but it set many others in motion. People freed to work remotely realized they could beam into their meetings from a thousand miles away just as easily as ten”. As a result, large cities, which previously dominated the list of the country’s top real estate markets, are losing their appeal as people discover they can work from anywhere, spend less and escape dense crowds in a safer, more secure environment.
Those dynamics have unleashed a flood of demand for property in smaller metro areas and rural areas (Cape Charles, for example) which are located less than an hour from a large city but are still far enough away to feel secure and isolated. And within places like Cape Charles, amenitized lifestyle communities like Bay Creek are attracting families looking for places where they can actually spend a majority of their time, not just weekends, holidays and summer vacations. This new use pattern flips the notion of a traditional second home on its head, as owners are now oftentimes looking to stay at their second home for most of the time and travel back to their primary home on occasion.
Reinvigorating Real Estate Sales and New Home
Building: Over the past five years we’ve helped families purchase over 500 Bay Creek properties, with well over fifty million dollars invested in new custom home construction. That trend continues today as vibrantly as ever, with 80+ additional new homes either under construction or in architectural review.
Increasing Real Estate Values: Our efforts have directly contributed to a measurable and meaningful appreciation in property values, benefiting homeowners and the local economy.
Economic Contributions: Bay Creek's development has significantly supported the economy of Cape Charles and the broader Eastern Shore. In addition, Bay Creek Development LLC has donated to local organizations and charities and will continue to do so.
New Neighborhood Development: We have introduced exciting new neighborhood concepts including additional Bayside Village homesites, Muirfield, The Commons, and Palmer Lake Villas, adding vitality and choice for both current and prospective residents.
Partnership with Troon: The signing of a club management agreement in 2022 with Troon has enhanced the quality of Bay Creek's amenities as well as the overall member experience at the club. Troon provides management services to over 595 locations and over 645 golf courses. Troon Privé, the private club operating division of Troon, manages golf and club operations, food and beverage, golf course agronomy and membership marketing and programming for Bay Creek. Troon’s mission statement and values blend seamlessly with Bay Creek Development LLC’s mission for the club at Bay Creek, which is to “deliver memorable experiences that cultivate lasting relationships”.
Amenities: We’ve made multi-million dollar capital improvements to key amenities including the Coach House, the Palmer and Nicklaus courses and the Life Center. We’ve added allnew amenities to further enrich the community and club experience including the 350-acre Nature Preserve with Avid Trails and extensive programming, Base Camp, and the Golf Cart path to Cape Charles, with Pickleball Courts now under construction. As for construction of new amenities, we will continue to focus our attention on enhancing existing amenities such as the Coach House, which currently has ample capacity. There are also meaningful discussions taking place between Bay Creek Development LLC and the Bay Creek Community Association on a costsharing agreement to relocate the Golf Cart path.
Club Membership Growth: Club membership has more than doubled since 2020 reflecting the appeal of Bay Creek's offering, which in turn has transformed the Club's financial outlook, moving from a $2 million annual loss in 2020 to projected profitability by the end of 2025.
Current active plans for new enclave development include ‘Village F’, located on the site of the former Scott home. Development is just beginning here with a targeted release date of late 2025. Plans include a large neighborhood park in the center of the enclave to preserve almost all the existing trees and brick ruins of the home. There will be approximately 70 new homesites offered.
Also in active development are the Villas at Magnolia Park, located adjacent to the POA pool and tennis complex. Bay Creek Development sold this parcel, also known as ‘Village J’, to Beacon Construction earlier this year, and Beacon is the exclusive developer for this enclave. Bay Creek Realty will serve as the listing and marketing company for the Villas, expected to be available for sale in mid to late 2025. Magnolia Park will feature approximately 48 residences.
When this time of year rolls around—often sooner than you expect— we think of get-togethers with family, Thanksgiving, holiday festivities and a feeling of good will. General Manager of Bay Creek Resort & Club, Bob Ewing, is thinking about the many great moments of 2024 and the possibility of what the next season holds.
"November is a good time to look back on the Club year and see how the 'seeds' we've sown have bloomed and grown," says Bob, "from completing signature capital projects to our everyday commitment to courtesy, expertise, and personal service. As a world-class Troon Privé organization, we are unwavering stewards of this Club.
"Many of the projects we began in earnest last year are in 'full bloom' as experiences and improvements that our Members and guests are enjoying.
"Autumn is a great time to be at Bay Creek— savoring club amenities like the Life Center, playing on the kind of scenic course that golfers dream about, and participating in the many amazing activities and events happening here every day.
"The Life Center is a fantastic hub of activity. Those gorgeous pools and slides may have said their goodbyes for the season, but this place is alive with families and guests enjoying fitness classes, special events, and curated activities. There's a full schedule of classes and recreation all year here. What an incredible place to have in your backyard! We have enjoyed seeing many folks taking part in the fitness classes—from spin, yoga, and Tabata to senior Pilates.
We're excited to announce that we will be adding a massage room and are in the process of hiring a massage expert! "With so many joining us, we've added more classes and welcomed more instructors. The Life Center really is part of the heartbeat of the community—just as it was designed to be.
"This time of year is very much the 'planning season' when we make plans and consider projects and improvements for the upcoming year. We carefully consider the needs of the Club—from capital projects to Member needs and requests. The entire process is guided by our commitment to the Members we gratefully serve.
"This year's planning is especially exciting as we discuss several projects that can further enhance the Club experience. Here are just a few:
• Renovations to the locker rooms
• Adding new amenities at our ever-popular Life Center
• Expanding kayak storage as the need and popularity continue to grow by leaps and bounds
"Which projects to pursue is determined by considering the needs of the Club and a host of other factors that put Bay Creek and the enjoyment of its Members at the forefront. I look forward to our Townhall Meeting in January, where I'll share more details!
"Bob Hope famously sang it, and we sincerely mean it. With the season wrapping up, we salute our Members and guests who have made this year an absolute pleasure on the course and beyond. Bay Creek's annual King and Bear tournament was a great success. And the Nicklaus Cup, a season-long match-play event, culminated on November 13th to great fanfare. Congratulations to all our tournament participants, supporters, and winners. It has truly been an incredible season. If you've never experienced golf at Bay Creek, you'll want to put that on your 2025 'must-do' list!
"There's a certain festiveness to life at Bay Creek even on the most ordinary days—so when the fall and winter holidays arrive, the mood becomes all the merrier! We're excited about many new activities and events for our residents and Members in the coming weeks. From hosting charity events—like the Thanksgiving 5K Turkey Trot for the American Red Cross hurricane relief—to offering special gatherings, dinners and events—the Coach House Tavern and the Club are happy to help celebrate the season. We have incredibly generous residents, Members, and staff here at Bay Creek who love helping their neighbors nearby and further afield. Thank you sincerely for your endless generosity.
"With this spirit of gratitude, I commend the entire Bay Creek team who works every day to make our community and Club something incredibly special. A premier club like Bay Creek has thousands of moving parts working together at any given moment—all to make the 'magic' that our Members deserve. The dedication and commitment of our staff is unmatched.
“ To our incredible Members–new, long-time, and soon-to-be: as we enjoy an Eastern Shore fall and head toward a great new year, we dedicate ourselves to serving you–through exceptional amenities, top-notch service, memorable experiences, and shared joy.”
~ Bob Ewing, General Manager Bay Creek Resort & Club
We're fully into fall here on the beautiful Eastern Shore. The cooling temperatures bring a refreshing energy and make it ideal to get outside and explore all that nature has to offer. Bay Creek's own Ranger, Stan Osmolenski, guides us through some exciting things happening in the Nature Preserve and shares events and activities that make the upcoming months memorable.
We're seeing the familiar signs of fall around Bay Creek: the subtle changing of leaves, emerging autumn colors, and cool, crisp breezes off the Bay. With the change in weather, it's a great time to observe the many plants and trees that will be transitioning into their autumn glory.
"Bay Creek is an amazing place to be in fall," says Ranger Stan. "It combines hundreds of acres of preserved nature, incredible biodiversity, and easy access to trails and waterways. Folks here have a front-row seat to the natural splendor of the Eastern Shore.
"Bay Creek's forests, meadows, and waterways are home to a robust community of plant and animal residents who are also preparing for fall," says Ranger Stan. "This is the time when many plants are going to seed. It's an essential moment in nature—for the reproduction of the plants and the animals that rely on those seeds as a food source.
"Most seeds are tiny, but some are quite large and showy. Right now, one of the most noticeable examples of 'scenic seeds' comes from the beautiful native pines. Loblolly and Virginia pines are producing their iconic pinecones, a vital food source for a variety of wildlife.
"You might also see the large, spiky, cone-shaped seed pods of magnolia trees, full of red, aromatic seeds. These make for a fascinating find when you're out exploring! If you see them on the ground, take a closer look and appreciate how they help spread the next generation of trees. You may also find fuzzy sycamore seed packs and spiky gumballs from the sweet gum tree.
"If you're out and about in the Nature Preserve or exploring the community, you can see light feathery white seeds floating through the air—it almost looks like snow. Those come from the groundsel plant, which is quite pretty right now.
The goldenrod, which will be going to seed in the coming weeks, is putting on a show, too. These are the vivid yellow flowers seen in Bay Creek's meadows and conservation areas. "Another lovely native plant is named 'American Beautyberry." It's hard to miss the clusters of bright purple berries. These berries are a good food source for Bay Creek's large bird population, which helps spread the plant's seeds across the Preserve and beyond."
Ranger Stan says that fall also brings out the 'hitchhiker plants. "These are the ones you'll find sticking to your pants and shoes while walking through meadows. They have evolved this clever strategy to spread their seeds far and wide. You've probably encountered stick-tight seeds, which look like tiny, velvety brown triangles, or cockleburs, those spiky little balls that will cling to anything they can latch onto. They may be a bit of a nuisance to us at times, but they play an important role in the plant's life cycle and support wildlife, too. Clean off any 'hitchhiker seeds' from your clothes and shoes after every hike to prevent the spread of invasive plants to your yard or another natural area.
Bay Creek's meadows are crucial for birds, insects, and mammals, primarily through the winter. Foxes hide in the meadows, and predatory birds hunt there. In fact, these meadows are every bit as important as the Preserve's waterways and forests when it comes to biodiversity and supporting wildlife."
The care and keeping of our unique Bay Creek environment sometimes require a sharp eye. Ranger Stan points out a few invasive plants to be mindful of this time of year.
“Invasive Johnson grass with its reddish seed heads is one you can easily spot. It can invade quickly but is a relatively easy one to uproot. Then there is a species called ‘phragmites,’ a tall, wispy reed grass that chokes out native plants along shorelines. It’s pretty but shouldn’t be brought in for decoration as it threatens to overtake the habitat of native plants.”
Phragmites
“You can also watch for common fennel, a plant that has entered our landscape. Though it hosts the black swallowtail butterfly and offers some culinary benefits, it can quickly become invasive and push out other, more beneficial plants.”
One of the best things about this time of year is the abundance of outdoor activities. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, or just enjoying a leisurely stroll, Bay Creek’s trails, acres of preserves, and scenic, winding waterways are perfect for soaking in the season’s beauty.
“With nearly six miles of trails in our nature preserve, there’s something for everyone –whether you’re walking the dogs, hiking, or biking. There are easy loops as well as single track technical sections like the Shoreline trail, for bicyclists who seek something a bit more adventurous,” says Stan.
“Our Preserve trails are great for biking and easy to navigate for all skill levels. We also have sidewalks where it’s easy to get out and bike or walk. It’s also possible to take a bicycle ride to explore Cape Charles—it’s only about a mile and a half via the cart path to get from Bay Creek to the shops and sights of downtown.
“It’s worth mentioning that bicyclists can enjoy 5 miles of paved trails in the nearby Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge. There are dirt trails, a World War II bunker, and a visitors’ center with interactive exhibits and an indoor
wildlife observation deck. You can also check out some lookouts over Smith Island and King Charles Lighthouse.”
Isn’t this really what living on the Eastern Shore is all about? Spectacular nature, rich history, year-round outdoor beauty, mild climate, and distinct seasons to enjoy.
Fall is bursting with events that celebrate the season and forge connections among neighbors and friends at Bay Creek. Ranger Stan offers a full calendar of experiences and activities all year. Here’s what’s coming up next:
Guided Hikes These hikes focus on specific themes—like birdwatching, plant ID hike-andsketch, or full moon hikes—making learning about the animals and plants in the Preserve and beyond fun and memorable. Ranger Stan loves to answer questions you may have about our amazing natural surroundings.
Guided Kayaking Tours While most people may think of kayaking as a summer activity, the fall offers a quiet, peaceful time to paddle through the Preserve’s calm waters. The cooler air and still waters create the perfect environment for spotting wildlife, and there’s something magical about being on the water with the leaves turning around you.
Lunch and Learn During this monthly gathering, we invite experts to share their knowledge on everything from local wildlife to plant identification. It’s a great way to learn something new and connect with your neighbors. Bay Creek is a community of lifelong learners—and Ranger Stan’s talks, experiential learning, and guest speakers are a huge part of that.
Plein Air Painting Sessions Ranger Stan’s plein air painting get-togethers know no season!
“We head into the woods to capture the beauty of nature on canvas. You don’t have to be an artist to enjoy capturing the beauty of nature on canvas. In fall and even winter, plein air painting is a lovely experience, and Ranger Stan can assist with many tips and techniques.
Nature Talk Campfire Gather around the campfire under the stars and enjoy a talk on the natural, cultural, and historical wonders of Bay Creek and the Shore. Ranger Stan answers all your burning questions around a crackling campfire and is even known to tell a ghost story from time to time!
Bicycle Beer Flight You’ll love this flavorful foray through the Bay Creek Nature Preserve! Make your way to four scenic spots and celebrate with a unique craft beer at every stop. This festive and fun tour culminates at the Coach House Tavern, where guests enjoy a full glass of one of the flight’s sample brews. It’s two wheels, four beers, and endless fun!
“As fall color counts down to winter in the coming months, there are even more lovely things to look forward to at Bay Creek. In January, we’ll host our Bay Creek Artist Exhibition, where local artists will showcase their work. This is an excellent opportunity to meet the artists and hear about their creative processes.
“Our mild winter weather allows us to enjoy nature nearly all year, and our Campfire Events will continue through the winter—we’ll gather around the fire, share stories, and marvel at the magnificence of the endless Eastern Shore night sky. There’s so much to look forward to here at Bay Creek.
“Whether you’re walking, biking, kayaking, or simply enjoying the view, I hope you take time to explore every bit of Bay Creek and experience the wonder of our unique Eastern Shore home. Hope to see you out there!”
~ Ranger Stan Osmolenski
Bay Creek’s Preserve Ranger
As a chef who has traveled a large part of the globe, cooking up incredible experiences everywhere he goes, Bay Creek’s Chef Christian Lofland understands the importance of local flavor. For him, settling into Bay Creek and Eastern Shore living has always been about honoring the aesthetic of the place and offering authentic tastes—with a twist. In the right hands, even the most tried and true dish can be enriched by a chef’s personal style.
The kitchen is, after all, for experimenting! And his guide along the way? His tastes, local influences, and real-time feedback from the many residents and guests who enjoy his flavorful food.
The Artist’s Palate
Christian brings his lifetime of experience to every new dish he creates. From colors and plating to aromas—the culinary experience begins long before you take your first taste.
This is evident in the menu he has created for the Coach House Tavern. Christian offers a tantalizing glimpse of what we can enjoy:
“As we head into winter, we’ll feature a braised short rib with polenta and mushrooms. We’re also doing an Asian ‘super bowl,’ a seared pork belly on a blend of shredded vegetables with sesame ginger vinaigrette. We top it off with a bit of green onion and sesame seeds. It really warms your belly.
“Butternut squash is starting to come into season, and I’m really excited about that—it’s one of my all-time favorites. I like to make a butternut squash soup with toasted pumpkin seeds and a little fresh crème—that’s a winner!”
Coach House guests will also have an opportunity to try a new chicken piccata dish, among other new items, this season. And the bar will be positively bubbly—Chef Christian’s oyster special Asian Superbowl
with champagne will make sure of that! “We’ll have a bottle of bubbles and a dozen oysters—it’s a very festive dish heading into the holiday season. Who doesn’t love that?”
On the sweeter side, Chef Christian and his talented team will offer up favorite finishers like crème brulé and plenty of chocolate.
Since arriving more than two years ago, Chef Christian has connected to Cape Charles and the Eastern Shore community, forging working relationships with local and regional producers whenever possible. Sometimes, local means up the road a bit,’ and sometimes, it encompasses the southeast coastal states and beyond. But Christian’s sources are always conscious choices that honor the ‘local-and-authentic’ spirit of Bay Creek.
“We’re an Eastern Shore community, and we celebrate everything that comes with that. The seafood, that independent spirit, and helping out our neighbors, so sourcing as locally as possible is something we believe in,” he says.
Partnering up with the Mayor of Cape Charles, Adam Charney, Bay Creek team members, residents, and friends recently took part in a relief effort for hurricane victims in North Carolina. Charney brought up a truck, and neighbors came out enmasse, loading it with canned goods, water, and supplies to be shipped to our neighbors in western North Carolina.
“This community and Bay Creek residents are an incredibly generous group,” Christian says. “They’re known for their dedication to help. It’s a privilege to be a part of that.”
Bay Creek also held a fundraiser for the American Red Cross to help those affected by hurricanes Helene and Milton. The event, ‘Tree of Life on
the Half Shell’, was a great success. Folks enjoyed Chef Christian’s delightful appetizers, oysters, spirits, fellowship, and live music—with admission costs supporting this worthy cause. Food and philanthropy… it’s a perfect pairing of food.
“The new year is always a great time to roll out fresh, new menus, experiment with flavors, and forge new partnerships with fellow foodies.
“In 2025, we’ll debut new menu creations we’re already planning—from the latest items to inspired twists on old favorites. We may be debuting some new cakes, too. We recently hosted a rehearsal dinner here at Bay Creek, and the party brought in beautiful cakes from a bakery in Spartanburg, South Carolina. They were incredible. I love working with high-quality local and regional partners, so this may be something our Coach House guests could see in the future. We’re gearing up for another exciting new year!
“May you savor the upcoming holiday season with family and friends.On behalf of the entire Coach House Tavern team, cheers!”
~ Chef Christian Lofland
It’s that holiday movie you can’t wait to watch every year. It evokes warm memories of family and friends, childhood, and golden times. Lively neighborhood celebrations, cultural events, and traditions, both weird and wonderful.
The magic and nostalgia of the season are alive and well here.
Enjoy warm camaraderie and resilient hospitality among friends, new and old. Once you spend time on the Eastern Shore—looking up at millions of stars in the vast sky, walking the Bay beaches that are reset by renewing tides every morning, sharing a smile or a wave along the street—strangers aren’t strangers for long.
Cape Charles enters an almost magical state as the days get cooler. If you know, you know. This time of year, the town is a delightful mix of locals and visitors here to savor the slower pace and celebrate the season’s simple joys. Enjoy a day of outdoor adventure, beachcombing, biking, and hiking— Bay Creek’s Nature Preserve and trails are beautiful this time of year. Head into Cape Charles and recharge with a warm drink and a great meal at one of our many local eateries. Then get ready to join in the enormous fun of the holidays here in Virginia’s ‘’Best Little Beach Town,” Cape Charles!
It’s a full calendar of the wonderful and winterful here on the Eastern Shore. Where to begin? Right here!
Bay Creek is pleased to offer the definitive guide to everything festive and fabulous this season.
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS
HOLIDAY 2024
Remember when it “magically” snowed in Cape Charles last year? It wasn’t a dream—it was part of our famous “Festive Fridays,” and it’s happening again this year!
FRIDAYS: NOVEMBER 29, DECEMBER 6,13,&20
Cape Charles will transform into an Eastern Shore winter wonderland this year. This is far beyond decorations or a town Christmas Tree. This transformative enchantment would make the Hallmark channel sit up and take notes.
If you’re looking for a picture-perfect holiday escape this season, there’s one event you absolutely can’t miss: Festive Fridays. This annual holiday celebration transforms the historic streets into a winter wonderland brimming with old-fashioned holiday cheer.
For four Friday nights, the town comes alive with dazzling lights, rousing music, and festive décor, making it feel like you’ve stepped into a classic holiday tale. This event perfectly blends small-town charm and Christmas magic, with twinkling trees, parades, and plenty of familyfriendly activities.
As the sun sets, the streets of Cape Charles light up with Christmas trees that line Mason Avenue and Strawberry Street Plaza. These beautifully decorated trees shine bright, casting a warm, festive glow across the town. It’s the perfect setting for a winter stroll—whether you’re taking
in the sights or snapping a world-class picture of you and the gang among holiday perfection.
One of the highlights of Festive Fridays is the lively parade featuring the Northampton High School marching band. November 29 and December 20, you’ll hear rousing music echoing through the streets as talented local kids strike up the band. Don’t forget to enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride, too—it’s a lovely way to take in the sparkling shops and holiday displays.
Cape Charles is known for its unique shops, and they shine on Festive Fridays. Many local boutiques, galleries, and eateries open their doors for First Friday events, offering special sales, door prizes, and seasonal treats. Many of us at Bay Creek use this occasion to shop for bespoke gifts—many of which are made right here on the Eastern Shore by local artisans. It’s a great time to indulge, too: gourmet bakery creations, hot toddies, and delicious treats abound.
There’s plenty of entertainment for the little ones, too—after all, isn’t this what it’s all about? Festive Fridays delights the young and youngat-heart with pony rides, face-painting, and a petting zoo.
Of course, the jolly old man himself will be there—Santa and his better half, Mrs. Claus, will be at Festive Fridays each week, ready to meet children of all ages in Strawberry Street Plaza. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself
among a “”magical snowfall”” while you chat with Santa about what you like to find under the tree this year—this annual “now another one of the “that makes this event so wonderfully memorable.
Downtown Cape Charles, the Palace Theatre will show free Christmas movies every Friday at 8 pm. Catch a classic with the family—The Polar Express to Elf, Christmas Vacation, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and more in the beautifully restored Palace Theatre.
Cape Charles Fridays - Nov 29th, Dec 6th, 13th, and 20th 5pm – 8pm
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14TH
History repeats itself in the sweetest way every December in Cape Charles when the Historic Homes Cookie Trail rolls around. The town’s historic streets are transformed with twinkling lights and festive décor, setting the stage for a nostalgic and magical stroll. This holiday season, you’re invited to walk through Cape Charles’ past—and enjoy the present—on this beloved tradition that pairs history with holiday treats.
The Cookie Trail isn’t just delicious; it’s a delightful journey through the history and beauty of Cape Charles. Follow the tour route that winds through some of the town’s most beautifully decorated historic Bed and Breakfasts and private homes. Each stop offers its own unique charm, with classic Victorian architecture, holiday cheer, and, of course, the cookies.
Think of it as a walking tour with a sweet twist! At each stop, taste homemade holiday cookies and confections, admire the festive decorations that adorn the homes decked out in holiday splendor and take in the stunning period architecture that Cape Charles is known for. Whether it’s a grand historic home or a cozy B & B, every stop on the Cookie Trail delivers big holiday cheer.
Sweeter still is the cause the Cookie Trail supports. While the Cookie Trail is free to enjoy, it is supported by donations, with all proceeds benefiting the Cape Charles Food Pantry. The event has become an annual tradition, and this year promises to be the best yet—so gather your loved ones, put on your walking shoes, and take a delicious walk-through history.
To participate, bring along a non-perishable food item to donate to the Eastern Shore Food Pantry and Food Bank. If you prefer, cash donations are also welcome.Your generosity will make a difference to those in need in the Cape Charles community.
TOUR START: Head to Almeta Café inside the Hotel Cape Charles on 235 Mason Avenue. This is where you’ll register, pick up your event map, and get all the details you need to enjoy the tour. From there, you can visit as many homes as you’d like along the trail and enjoy the sights and sounds of each stop.
This sweet holiday tradition is made possible by the Cape Charles Vacation Homeowners Association and the Town of Cape Charles. It’s an event that perfectly captures the small-town charm and community spirit that make our town such a special place to visit and to call home.
Saturday, December 14th 2pm – 5pm
PRESENTED BY THE
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14TH | 3PM-9PM
Cape Charles Volunteer Fire Company presents the wildly popular event, Tool Mania! 501 Mason Ave.
This may not sound like your typical holiday gathering, but boy, oh, boy, it is a great time!
Benefitting the Cape Charles Volunteer Fire Company, Tool Mania is a highenergy, wild-fun event featuring tool raffles, live and silent auctions, and door prizes. With an impressive collection of new tools and equipment, Tool Mania is one of those events that really takes you back to the ‘wow’ of Christmas mornings past. With drawings every 10 minutes and 27+ chances to win with every ticket, this legendary local benefit is incredibly high-energy and fiercely fun.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21ST | 7:30PM
The mood of the holidays in Cape Charles is special—it’s something that must be felt. Nothing embodies the joy, celebration, and festivity of the season like this annual musical holiday tradition—the Virginia Symphony Holiday Brass.
Make plans to enjoy one of the season’s boldest and most magnificent events: Holiday Brass, a world-class performance from the Virginia Symphony brass section.
Held at the Historic Palace Theatre in Cape Charles, this performance is a perennial favorite for visitors, young and old. It has been hailed as an evening “ filled with wit, virtuosity, and the glorious music of the holidays.” Be delighted by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra brass and percussion sections’ classical, sensational sounds. You’ll hear rousing music from a variety of styles surrounded by the historic charm and magic of Cape Charles’ expertly restored, Palace Theatre.
VIRGINIA SYMPHONY PRESENTS HOLIDAY BRASS
Saturday, December 21 | 7:30pm
Historic Palace Theater
305 Mason Avenue, Cape Charles
Tickets are $30 for Adults & $15 for Students
Opened in 1942, the Historic Palace Theatre is a masterwork of Art Deco style. In its heyday, it was described as one of the largest and most ornate picture theatres between Norfolk and Philadelphia. Now lovingly restored, it is a treasured community landmark functioning as an active center for the Arts in Cape Charles and surrounding regions.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31ST
If you’re looking for a New Year’s Eve celebration with a twist, look no further than Cape Charles. This charming little town is not one to follow the crowd, especially when it comes to ringing in the New Year. New York City may do the Ball Drop, but Cape Charles does something absolutely fabulous…
The Dropping of the Crab Pot is Cape Charles’ take on the New Year’s tradition, and it’s a blast. Picture this: a giant crab pot, sparkling with twinkling lights, is lifted high into the sky by a crane. At the stroke of 10 pm (not midnight!), the whole crowd counts down, and the crab pot descends, ushering in the new year a bit early. It’s perfect for families, early birds, and anyone wanting to make their way to other festivities around town.
Locals and visitors alike gather along iconic Mason Avenue, where they’re treated to live music, fireworks, and a boatload of holiday cheer. People come from all over, with some traveling from other continents. Once people experience the holidays in Cape Charles, they often make the pilgrimage here every year. The crowd is a quirky and jolly mix of oldtimers, repeat visitors, locals, and newbies, all coming together to celebrate in true Eastern Shore fashion.
While the crab pot might be the show’s star, New Year’s Eve in Cape Charles isn’t just about “the drop.” There’s something magical about standing in the crisp night air, holding a steamy cup of cocoa (or perhaps a bit of bubbly) and cheering as the
big blue crab pot descends. It’s part of the Eastern Shore’s maverick spirit and good humor. And standing there in the salty chill air among fellow merrymakers beneath the vast night sky, you may feel connected to something far more significant.
Make sure you join us for the Dropping of the Crab Pot—this little slice of local tradition is a great way to start a fresh, new year. It’s just the right amount of fun, funky and festive. What a great way to set a fresh tone for the new year. So “begin as you mean to go on’’ in 2025, full of lightness and joy here in beautiful Cape Charles.
RING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH US CAPE CHARLES STYLE!
Tuesday, December 31 9:30pm to 10:30pm Crab Pot drops at 10pm
Downtown Cape Charles Mason Avenue Across from the Cape Charles Memorial Library
START 2025 BY TAKING THE POLAR BEAR PLUNGE!
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1ST | 11AM-12PM
The First Day in the Bay event, with a Polar Bear Plunge into the Chesapeake Bay, has quickly cemented itself as a Cape Charles tradition since its inaugural run in January 2020. The event is a ‘very chill’ way to start the new year alongside several hundred brave neighbors and visitors. Last year’s Polar plungers enjoyed air temps of around 65˚ and water in the 50’s. A friendly reminder: it is the Polar Bear, not Bare Plunge.
So, find your favorite swimsuit and get ready for the thrill of the chill! If jumping in a cold Bay is not your ideal New Year’s Day activity—stay dry and just enjoy the show! Mimosas and Bloody Mary’s have been sighted occasionally and seem to warm things up nicely.
Brought to the community by Vacation Homeowners Group of Cape Charles, First Day in the Bay is a charity event whose proceeds support the local community. Donations are, of course, welcome.
Good food and all kinds of beverages will be available for purchase. Advanced registration is available online. The fun begins at 11 a.m. Join the community for this invigorating charity event!
TAKE THE PLUNGE!
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 | 11am - 12pm Madison Avenue Beach, Cape Charles Cost: Free. Donations are welcomed.
Set upon 1,720 lush acres along the Chesapeake Bay, Bay Creek is a masterplanned community that brings families together to live their best life through a connection with its coastal landscape, nature, phenomenal club amenities managed by Troon Privé and active lifestyle programming. From exploring sparkling bay waters to hosting friends for dinner on the porch of your welcoming new coastal home, Bay Creek is the easy-going, elegant lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of.
We invite you to explore this natural wonderland in a place where residents connect, forge friendships and pursue their interests and passions. There is truly nothing like it on the coast of Virginia.
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