CAPE CHARLES, Va. — Kelly’s Gingernut Pub, a cherished establishment in the heart of Cape Charles, will close its doors for the final time on December 31 after nearly two decades of serving the community.
Since opening on July 3, 2006, Kelly’s has been more than just a pub. For locals and visitors alike, it has been a gathering place, a source of comfort, and a venue filled with countless memories. “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closing of Kelly’s Gingernut Pub,” the owners, Colleen and Gene Kelly said in a statement. “We have loved being a part of the Cape Charles community.”
The decision to close was not made lightly. While the announcement marks the end of an era, the Kelly’s expressed gratitude for the years of support from patrons who helped make Kelly’s a cornerstone of the town. “Closing was not an easy decision, but as we pass the torch to the new ownership, we do so with gratitude for all of you who made Kelly’s what it is today,” the statement continued.
Folks in Cape Charles are aware of the great lengths Gene and Colleen went through to keep the doors open and the staff employed, not just during the off-season but especially during the COVID lockdowns.
The pub’s final chapter will be celebrated with a farewell auction. On December 31, Kelly’s will host its last day of service, inviting patrons to raise a glass to 18 memorable years. On January 4, the pub will hold a farewell auction at 4:30 PM, offering a chance for the community to take home a piece of its history. Tickets to the auction are $10 at the door and include a bar drink. Items up for bid will include wall pictures that capture Kelly’s story and furniture such as tables and chairs.
“We’d love to see as many of you as possible to help us send Kelly’s Gingernut Pub off in style,” the Kelly’s said. “Your support has meant the world to us, and we hope to raise a glass with you one last time.”
For many, the closing of Kelly’s represents a bittersweet goodbye to a place that has played a significant role in the fabric of Cape Charles life. While its legacy will live on in the memories of those who frequented its warm, welcoming space, the town bids farewell to a true icon of the Eastern Shore.
Cape Charles residents and visitors alike are encouraged to come together to celebrate Kelly’s legacy and honor the community spirit it embodied.
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Just a great place, I’ve been here since 2017 having purchased a home on Randolph… My kids love Kelly’s, they stayed open when others closed at times where I knew it couldn’t be profitable… A true server of the community putting the community first, at all times. I’m sure will miss coming all the way I come rarely now my kids just loved Kelly’s. We did a lot of celebrating in there.
Kelly’s became a bad “hobby “ for Gene the last several years, with no real effort or attempt to do anything. The new owner will bring a much better chapter to a much needed venue. Sad but true.
That’s so wonderful of you to say! Any other uplifting thoughts to share?
Some people simply tell the truth others are Old Farts
You are probably right. We noticed that too when visiting. When will they re-open under new ownership? Have you heard?