Thursday, May 21, 2020

Memorial Day Weekend 2020 Overview


Back in late March, with the COVID-19 crisis in its early stages and still unfolding, we asked Wildwood Mayor Pete Byron about his prospects for the season ahead.

“In my gut, I believe we will have a summer in the Wildwoods,” he said. “Can you imagine the opposite? I don’t want to. It’s going to take some creativity and lots of cooperation.

“It’s going to be different, but I believe we’ll get there.”

“Different” is a word we’ve heard a lot over the past few months, a byproduct of the changes and disruptions to everyday life caused by this pandemic.

We are currently in Stage 1 of Governor Phil Murphy’s recovery plan. In a nutshell, this means that beaches, parks and recreation areas (including the Boardwalk) are open, while “non-essential” businesses can offer curbside pickup services only.

With all of this in mind, the following is an overview of what to expect this most unique Memorial Day Weekend, as we forge ahead into - YES! - a new summer season in the Wildwoods…

[NOTE: While it’s mentioned elsewhere in this overview, the mayors of the Wildwoods have asked us to remind our readers that social distancing orders from Governor Murphy remain in place and will be enforced by police this weekend. Current orders prohibit gatherings of anyone other than immediate family members, etc. Large or group gatherings are discouraged, and will be dispersed if necessary. Masks are encouraged in public places and required when interacting with any business.]



Motels / Hotels

Short term (or transient) rentals will remain prohibited in the Wildwoods over Memorial Day Weekend. So, if you’re planning on heading down, you will not be able to book a motel or hotel room.

Motel and hotel rentals will resume in Wildwood and North Wildwood on Tuesday, May 26 and on Monday, June 1 in Wildwood Crest.



Beaches & Boardwalk

The Wildwoods’ two main draws will be OPEN, with a few caveats.

On May 14, Governor Murphy gave municipalities the go-ahead to implement plans to reopen the shore. Many towns, including Wildwood and North Wildwood (which have worked in unison) had already lifted restrictions on recreational activities.

The island’s beaches are all now open for walking, running, sunbathing, etc - with social distancing measures in place, of course. 

VERY IMPORTANT - Swimming will be permitted only when lifeguard service returns, on Saturday, May 23. Even then, patrols will be limited to certain areas during the early season.

It should also be noted that a good portion of the beach in North Wildwood remains inaccessible, with beach replenishment and construction work continuing between 2nd - 23rd Avenues. Beachgoers are asked to follow all signs and directions from police and lifeguards.

The Boardwalk is also open for access and recreational activities, with social distancing orders being enforced and mask-wearing practices encouraged. 

Amusement rides, arcades and games remain closed, while restaurants, food stands and stores can only offer takeout, delivery or “curbside” services (see below).

Sightseer Tram Car service will resume (with advanced safety measures) AFTER the weekend, on Tuesday, May 26.



Amusements

Morey’s Piers remains closed at this time, as does all arcades and game stands, indoor mini-golf, go-karts and water parks.

The reopening of amusement attractions is dependent upon Governor Murphy, who has yet to indicate a specific timetable for such a decision.



Restaurants & Stores

On-premise shopping and dining remains prohibited at this time, basically meaning that the public cannot access the interior of any store or restaurant on the island.

“Essential” businesses, including restaurants and food services, can continue to offer takeout, counter service, curbside delivery and regular delivery options. 

With large crowds anticipated this weekend, there is some concern over food supplies and the crush this might put on local restaurants. Please read these suggestions from the owner of the Surfing Pig on how to handle some of these challenges ahead.

Stores now have the option of offering curbside pickup services. Items can be purchased online or by phone and will be made available outside of a given location. While this can be confusing, businesses are beginning to find their way. Check out Boardwalk businesses Rapunzel’s and What Goes On for more on how this is being done.



Events

Just about all the major events this weekend have been cancelled, including such traditional Memorial Day Weekend staples as the Wildwoods International Kite Festival, the Unlocking of the Ocean Ceremony and the Boardwalk Craft Show.

However, the Downtown Wildwood Farmer’s Market will kick off its new season at Byrne Plaza on Saturday, May 23 from 8 am until 12:30 pm. Click HERE for more info.

American Legion Post 184 will host a Memorial Day Parade through the streets of Wildwood on Saturday, starting at 3 pm. The parade, which will be led by members of Wildwood's police and fire departments, will be “social distance viewing only,” with the community asked to watch from their porches or yards.

The legion will also host an online ceremony on Memorial Day, Monday at 11 am. 

For more info on these events, along with additional MDW info and resources for children from Post 184, click HERE.

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