White Reaper will be performing at Oceans Calling Festival on Saturday September 30th at 3.30pm, at the Carousel Stage.
White Reaper is made up of Tony Esposito [guitar, vocals], Ryan Hater [keys], Hunter Thompson [guitar], Nick Wilkerson [drums, percussion], and Sam Wilkerson [bass] . They have arrived as one of the 21st century’s preeminent rock bands. Ushering in a new era, White Reaper are unapologetically embracing their collective essence – musically sincere and uncontainable on stage. Grinding it out behind independent LPs White Reaper Does It Again [2015] and The World’s Best American Band [2017], they leveled up on their Elektra Records debut, You Deserve Love, in 2019. A flurry of critical acclaim followed, while the album’s lead single “Might Be Right” vaulted to #1 at Alternative Radio and tallied tens of millions of streams. The band lit up ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel LIVE! for their late-night TV debut and Pearl Jam brought them in tow as special guests on their most recent arena tour. Guided by the ethos that their songs are meant to be immediate and timeless, the band went to Nashville where they wrote and largely self-produced their fourth full-length LP, Asking for a Ride, with the help of friend and engineer Jeremy Ferguson. This time around, they directly channeled the energy of their live show in order to replicate that connection in the songs. On Asking for a Ride, you’ll get the band’s signature chrome-plated riffs, mixed with thrash, stadium-made choruses, and blissful acoustic comedowns. This is five dudes churning out bangers like their lives depend on it.
The festival begins at noon each day and ends at 11 PM each night. Please plan ahead so you know how to get in and out of town easily.
Parking
West Ocean City Park and Ride has shuttles into Ocean City for the Oceans Calling Festival 2023.
If you are not staying in Ocean City where parking is provided, there are three lots for you to try:
West Ocean City Park and Ride 12848 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, MD 21842
Ocean City Convention Center Parking Lot 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842
100th Street Municipal Parking Lot 10267 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842
There will be Public Transportation available to and from the festival from these locations. ADA parking is available at all municipal parking lots.
There are no parking options for the festival from N. Division Street south to the inlet.
Transit
The Ocean City Beach Bus will be shuttling people to the festival area throughout Oceans Calling.
Ocean City Beach Bus:
Travels north and southbound along Coastal Highway
For the festival, the Beach Bus is running an express route with a reduced set of stops. Please see route map for available locations.
When leaving the festival in the evening, concertgoers can walk to Baltimore Avenue to catch the Beach Bus (for northbound access). Northbound buses will be staged on Baltimore Avenue between Worcester Street and Talbot Street.
West Ocean City Shuttle
to and from the West Ocean City Park and Ride.
The West Ocean City shuttle will transport to and from the West Ocean City Park and Ride lot (12848 Ocean Gateway) and the festival.
When leaving the festival, patrons traveling west to the West Ocean City Park and Ride can take a bus from the South End Transit Station (South Division Street) directly to the West Ocean City Park and Ride Lot.
All Ocean City municipal buses are ADA accessible.
Ride-All-Daypass
$4 and allows you to ride from 6 a.m. until 2 a.m. on the Beach Bus and 11 a.m. until 12 a.m. on the West Ocean City Shuttle.
Exact cash fare is required – credit card payments are NOT accepted.
ADA Drop-Off and Pick Up
ADA drop off and pick up is available at 1 N. Division St (east of Baltimore Ave.).
Walking or Biking to the Festival
Walking and/or biking to the festival is strongly encouraged. The walk from the North End of the Boardwalk (27th Street) to the North Entrance is approximately a 2 mile walk, taking around 40 minutes. Please remember to walk smart, use crosswalks, and wait for the pedestrian signal. Bike Parking will be available on the beach between 1st and 2nd St. Please remember to bring your own bike locks to secure your bicycle(s)!
Walking/Biking Times – Southbound to the Main Entrance
From 40th St, 55 min walk, or 13 min bike ride
From 30th St, 45 min walk, or 10 min bike ride
From 20th St, 30 min walk, or 8 min bike ride
From 10th St, 15 min walk, or 5 min bike ride
Walking/Biking Times – Eastbound to the Main Entrance
From West Ocean City Park and Ride, 20 min walk, or 8 min bike ride
Bicycle Storage
There will be a bicycle storage area located on the beach between first and 2nd street. Make sure you bring a lock!
Hotel Shuttles
Some hotels may be running a courtesy shuttle from your hotel to the festival area. Be sure to check with your hotel for service hours. If provided, hotels will drop/pick up their guests at Somerset Street, approximately two blocks from the venue. Please note these shuttles are different from the Beach Bus.
The official passenger drop-off and pick-up location for Oceans Calling is located at 409 Baltimore Ave.
The walk from the Ride Share lot to the festival grounds is approximately 10 minutes.
Please keep in mind that ride share demand will be very high after the festival concludes each night with a limited number of drivers. Consider leaving early or taking a stroll along the boardwalk until the rush is over.
Areas south of N. Division Street will be closed to vehicular traffic, so ride shares, taxis, and friends won’t be able to pick you up near the festival site.
It will be best to walk north to 4th St along the Boardwalk and use the crosswalk to cross Baltimore Ave. to the Ride Share lot.
For transportation over the water, consider taking one of the 5 OC Bay Hopper vessels which will be in operation during the festival. Information about the Water Shuttle schedule for the festival weekend can be found via the following link.
Responsibility has its rewards. If you drink, don’t drive. Decide to Ride. Courtesy of Kona Big Wave.
Oceans Calling 2023 dodged Ophelia and is now in full swing setting up for the 4 day music festival starting this Thursday. If you want to take a look at the set-up, you can go to our webcams page. The Trimper Cam looks at the inlet parking lot and will give you a good idea of what is going on.
You can check out the set up for the Trimper Rides webcam.
Here are several shots of the set-up as of Tuesday, September 26. More to come!
Setting up for Oceans Calling 2023 in Ocean City, MDSomething big is coming – setting up for Oceans Calling 2023!The stage goes up for Oceans Calling 2023.The decking is piled up to be ready to go into place for Oceans Calling 2023.The Ocean City inlet parking lot filled with tents for Oceans Calling 2023.Jolly Roger at the Pier is inside the footprint of Oceans Calling 2023.Lots of containers are needed to set up Oceans Calling 2023.The beach is filled with tire tracks as they set up for Oceans Calling 2023.Oceans Calling 2023 set up from afar before Ophelia rolled through Ocean City
Click here to see the Oceans Calling festival 2023 guide page.
A huge music festival on the beach, walks along the Ocean City boardwalk, waves crashing on the sand, local cuisine being celebrated by celebrity chefs – this is what the Oceans Calling 2023 will bring to Ocean City September 29th – October 1st. Keep reading to see:
Set up pictures with a link to a webcam where you can watch the Oceans Calling set-up live
Last minute ticket information and a link.
Last minute hotel information.
Parking information and suggestions.
The new OceanCity.com App details – navigate the festival, find the performances, AND download by midnight on October 1 to be entered to win an Ocean City beercation.
Setting up for Oceans Calling 2023 in Ocean City, MD
This 3 day festival is already setting up to be ready when tens of thousands of people descend on Ocean City with visions of music on the beach. The set up began early this week, but they weren’t able to do too much because Tropical Storm Ophelia’s effects were influencing the wind and rain in Ocean City. Ophelia didn’t deter the set-up for long, however. They are in overdrive mode setting up. The stage is already up, decking down, tents erected and the work continues. To see the set up this morning, click to see the article we just published.
With big-name artists each day, you can buy a ticket for one day or all three. Many of the tickets are sold out, so if you want to join the festivities, you can still find an available ticket on the Oceans Calling website. There are also verified resale tickets on the Oceans Calling website.
OC Bay Hopper, Ocean City’s water-based transportation alternative, has just announced additional availability getting to and from the Oceans Calling music festival this weekend.
The OC Bay Hopper shuttle will depart the Roland E. Powell Convention Center every hour with two boats starting at 12pm/noon with a final return from the festival at 10:30pm.
A new park-and-ride option is now available that includes round-trip transportation and a parking pass for $100 for a group of 4 passengers. Three return times are offered each night with the final return from the festival at 12:10am. Parking is at Pier 23 in West Ocean City.
For up-to-date availability and how to reserve a spot for one of these options, please visit
If you are staying in Ocean City, leave your car at the hotel and take a bus downtown. You can try parking in the West Ocean City Park & Ride and take the shuttle into Ocean City. There are also several other public lots and there is street parking, but with the inlet lot closed for the event, there will be an enormous amount of pressure on these spots. Here is the link to the general parking information.
Navigating the Festival
Find yourself on the map and find the performances, bars & restaurants, and more near you. You can also win an Ocean City getaway. Download the OceanCity.com App to easily navigate the festival!Scan now to download the app, then use it to navigate the festival, and win prizes when you get to Ocean City.
OceanCity.com’s partners just built an App just in time to help you navigate the festival and generally find what you are looking for in Ocean City. You can download it now by scanning the code above or going to https://oceancitydotcom.ourloyaltyapp.com.
THE APP IS BEING UPDATED NOW SO DOWNLOAD AND START USING WHEN YOU GET TO OCEAN CITY FOR THE FESTIVAL!
Music Making Waves for Three Days
Oceans Calling 2023 is a three day festival in partnership with musicians O.A.R. featuring over 30 performances on 3 stages on the beach adjacent to the Ocean City boardwalk.
The BEST way to see all the performances and their associated times and stages is to download the new OceanCity.com App (see below). You will be able to filter by performer, day or stage.
Download the OceanCity.com App and track all the concerts at the Oceans Calling Music Festival 2023.
Experience delicious east coast bites from local food vendors. Plus, learn tricks of the trade from world-renowned chef cooking demos that celebrate the region. Check out the current list of chefs who will be participating!
As visitors enter Ocean City from the Route 50 Bridge or drive south along S. Philadelphia Avenue, one cannot but be impressed with the white marlin sculpture and water feature they see prominently displayed at the Entry Park. Recent visitors to Ocean City may not realize this public art piece was only installed about twenty years ago. So, here’s the story.
In 2000, a nonprofit organization, Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) was formed to revitalize downtown Ocean City. One of its many goals was to install public art in the downtown district. OCDC believes public art enhances the quality of life for visitors and residents. Realizing that its initial piece of public art needed to be a statement piece and touch on the special aspects of Ocean City, the OCDC Public Art Committee recommended the creation of a white marlin sculpture. As many know, Ocean City is noted as the “White Marlin Capital of the World.”
The best location for this new public artwork was deemed to be the Entry Park which was at the base of the Route 50 Bridge. This rather small park is very visible but was underutilized. In fact, this property at one time contained Dale’s Esso gas station that closed and the building demolished in the 1980’s. The land was purchased by the Town of Ocean City. Its interim use was a small park with limited landscaping. Luckily, that property was available for OCDC’s first public artwork.
OCDC then sought out several area artists and selected Paul Lockhart, a resident of Dorchester County on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Paul had a strong background in nature sculptures in metal and proposed this piece to be made of stainless-steel for its attractiveness as well as its durability. He proposed a fourteen-foot tall sculpture for this location. All agreed with this design, material, and size and Mr. Lockhart was commissioned for this project.
The next step was to design a water feature to surround this proposed signature sculpture. For this project, OCDC contracted with Hardscapes, Inc., a local contractor which had ample experience in hardscape design and outdoor living spaces.
In 2002, the OCDC then presented and received approval of this public art project from the Town of Ocean City. Once this project was approved, OCDC began a rigorous fundraising campaign needed to pay for the sculpture and the water feature. Knowing the challenges of such fundraising, OCDC recognized the project should be completed in two phases; the sculpture first, followed by the water feature.
Relying on private donations, OCDC was able to raise sufficient funds through its own membership and others having a great interest in supporting this new artwork. As a charitable nonprofit organization, contributions for this project were tax deductible. There were several levels of giving. All contributors who donated at least one thousand dollars were recognized on a plaque that still sets today, just east of the sculpture. Donations were made by individuals, businesses and other community organizations. Among the other community organizations which donated were: Ocean City Lions Club, Downtown Association, Boardwalk Development Association, Ocean City Parrothead Club, OC Beautification Committee, Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, and the Ocean City Hotel Motel Restaurant Association. Others donated in memory of deceased loved ones. In addition, there were many smaller donations received for this artwork. The intent was to make this a community funded project, and for this reason it was successful.
The sculpture was completed by Mr. Lockhart and installed in June 2002 at a ceremony attended by many. The next step was to fundraise for the water feature which would complete this first public art project. It took almost another year for the funds to be raised for the water feature; it being completed in 2003. A novel fundraiser was the raffling of Paul Lockhart’s working model (called a maquette) which was a small replica of the white marlin which generated over thirteen thousand dollars in raffle sales. A local resident won this raffle although tickets were sold throughout the Ocean City region.
So, for the past twenty years this public artwork has graced the entrance to Ocean City and has become a landmark feature. Often visitors can be seen getting their pictures taken in front of this majestic piece. Many have even had their wedding pictures taken in front of this artwork. It has become a great photo op location. OCDC is very proud to have facilitated this White Marlin sculpture and water feature as its first public artwork for all of Ocean City to view and enjoy. And now you know its story!!
Fitz and the Tantrums Performing at Oceans Calling on Sunday on Sunday October 1 Rockville Stage – 4.15pm
ABOUT FITZ AND THE TANTRUMS:
Multi-platinum artists Fitz and The Tantrums have energized popular music and culture with a series of unshakable, undeniable, and ubiquitous anthems and albums. Since 2008, the Los Angeles collective have magnified the scope of pop with a dash of indie, a dose of soul, and a whole lot of dancefloor-ready bounce. Their catalog spans fan favorite records such as Pickin’ up the Pieces [2010], More Than Just A Dream [2013], the gold-certified Fitz and The Tantrums [2016], and All the Feels [2019]. Along the way, they’ve impressively tallied just shy of 4 billion streams and counting powered by enduring hits such as the triple-platinum “HandClap,” platinum “Out of My League” and “The Walker,” and gold “Moneygrabber.” As an inescapable presence, their music has notably coursed through the mainstream conversation, soundtracking films on NETFLIX and campaigns for CVS Wellness, Sunchips, Sofi, Xfinity, Walmart, Norwegian Cruise Line, Lays, and Wells Fargo, to name a few. Beyond standout performances everywhere from Coachella and Bonaroo to numerous late-night television shows, they’ve consistently sold out some of the most iconic venues in the world, including The Forum and Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Not to mention, they’ve incited the applause from Rolling Stone, Billboard, People, and more. In 2021, Fitz and The Tantrums frontman Michael “Fitz” Fitzpatrick released his first-ever solo album Head Up High under the moniker FITZ. Meanwhile, co-lead vocalist Noelle Scaggs founded Diversify The Stage to help foster more diverse, inclusive, equitable, and accessible concerts, events, and touring workforces for historically marginalized and underrepresented communities. Fitz and The Tantrums once again leap forward with their bold, bright, and buoyant new album Let Yourself Free.
Fitz and The Tantrums are: Michael “Fitz” Fitzpatrick (vocals), Noelle Scaggs (vocals), James King (saxophone, flute), Jeremy Ruzumna (keyboards), and Joseph Karnes (bass).
Katherine Ruskey:Hi guys, I’m Katie with Ocean City.com. And we have some really exciting news today. We are here with the winners of the August sandcastle contest. We are here with the Baker family, the Polsinelli family, and the Leahy family! Guys, how are you?
Christina Polsinelli: Doing well.
John and Laura Leahy: Great.
Katherine Ruskey: Perfect. So I need to know who’s part of the Baker family. Raise your hand- part of the Baker family- and the Polsinelli family. And the Leahy family.Great. So, how did this trip get started? I know you guys say, this is an annual trip for all of you for your three families, coming to Ocean City. Were you guys friends to begin with? How did it all start?
John Leahy: No. So we started over 20 years ago, 21 or so. So we went down with the family. We have five children. At the time we had two or three. Yes. And Anthony’s family has two daughters, Gabby, Christina. The kids met up on a beach.Anthony, I think had dug a hole and the kids were playing in it. And I think the next year I was digging out a bench. Or something like that, some kind of furniture. We just started talking. I remember Anthony had a Boston Red Sox towel.
John Leahy: We were at Seal Beach, number 10 and the Polsinelli family was across the street. And what’s the name? .
Anthony Polsinelli: Constellation House.
John Leahy: So we’d see them coming off the beach and going on to the beach, so it just started as the kids playing together and then we built them a couch in the sand and then the couch became something else and then it became something else. It’s just grown over the time. So that’s how originally got started. We didn’t know The Polsinelli’s or The Baker’s. We just went down on our family vacation, with my wife’s family.
Katherine Ruskey: So, I was gonna say you guys had no idea who each other were before you actually went to Ocean City.
Anthony Polsinelli: No, no idea.
John Leahy: No, and now they regret it.
Katherine Ruskey: Lol- You guys are funny!
John Leahy: yeah, and…
John Leahy: Now It’s been over 20 years and now both families are coming to our oldest daughter’s wedding.
Katherine Ruskey: That’s incredible. Girls do you remember these early sand sculptures, or were you even alive 20 years ago?
Gabriella Polsinelli: Definitely remember the couches in the sand and then creating the little TV to look at myself. Mr. John’s daughter. I think we’re the ones who hit it off specifically on the sand couch. So, definitely a lot of memories. Super fun.
Katherine Ruskey: Do you guys have one specific sand sculpture that stands out as your favorite or maybe one that took the longest? How long does it take you to actually make some of these things?
Christina Polsinelli: I mean, some of the bigger ones we did were cars- Kirby?
John Leahy: Yep-Kirby.
Christina Polsinelli: We did a Tow Mater
John Leahy: A favorite.
Katherine Ruskey: So cool.
Christina Polsinelli: They take a long time.
John Leahy: Yeah, they’re an all-day project and…
Anthony Polsinelli:Yeah, there are a lot of sand,…
Anthony Polsinelli: A lot of water- it’s an all-day thing. We start out early. The dads are out early on the beach.
John Leahy: Yeah.
Anthony Polsinelli: Getting everything ready early.
Katherine Ruskey: Is it all hands-on deck or is this more like you guys watch the dads do all the work because usually the dads are all the ones building and everything- digging the holes. Who’s doing most of the work here?
Christina Polsinelli: Yeah. we supervise,…
Gabriella Polsinelli:Not us.
John Leahy: Yeah.
Anthony Polsinelli:They make the suggestions. Why don’t you do something bigger? And why don’t you come out in the morning and dig some sand? no,…
Laura Leahy: Yep.
Christina Polsinelli: I won’t be doing that.
Katherine Ruskey: How do you guys come up with the ideas for it? Because I’m gonna show a picture and I’m gonna share my screen if I can get it to work. We have a Snoopy. We have the Ocean City logo. How do you guys decide?
John Leahy: Usually the kids. Even though they’re not kids anymore. But usually the kids come up with ideas, About what’s popular. So if there’s a movie or something that’s out because if you look back at the ones we’ve done over the years, we’ve done Bugs Bunny and all that kind of stuff. And now, since we’ve done what we consider popular now, we got to do stuff with the younger kids, the four, five, six year olds will recognize. So we rely on all our daughters to come up with ideas…
Katherine Ruskey: True.
John Leahy: They come up with these ideas and we will do printouts and bring the printouts to the beach.
Katherine Ruskey: So I was going to ask. Do you guys have requests? Are you in the middle of something and someone comes up and says, Hey, can you make me or can you do this next?
Christina Polsinelli: Yeah, sometimes a lot of the kids come by and they see us there every year and it’s a lot of repeat people to come and see it every year . Every year we do something new and the sculptures have a year stamped on it in shells so we know the year.
Katherine Ruskey: Yeah, I was gonna say. , It looks like there are shells on the Ocean City logo that we’re seeing here. Is that seashells inside of it?
Athony Polsinelli: Yep, that is true. And hey, maybe the kids, they actually have a part. They collect the shells.
Katherine Ruskey: Okay, so who’s got the good penmanship because somebody has some really good penmanship in the sand. That’s a talent right there.
Anthony Polsinelli:That is a talent.
John Leahy: Yeah, Mr. Chad and I- We’re the laborers, Anthony’s, the artist.
Katherine Ruskey: What’s the eyes made up of in the Yoshi?
Christina Polsinelli: That is just cardboard.
Katherine Ruskey: Really?
Anthony Polsinelli: Some of them are plastic, some of them are cardboard, whatever sculpture. It depends what we’re doing that day. And we have a whole slew of them, and we try to incorporate at least an eyeball or some buttons in there. Just as a special thing to let it stick out a little bit further, that’s all.
Katherine Ruskey: I think this Snoopy is my favorite.
John Leahy: You have to get Miss Denise on the screen because she collects the bag of eyeballs that we’ve had for about 20 years.
John Leahy: Bottle caps. Sponges anything, you can find, she collects them,
Katherine Ruskey: That’s incredible. So, how hard is it to leave it there year after year knowing that the waves are gonna come up and crash it, someone’s gonna step on it, and you come back the next day and it’s not there. How heartbreaking is that?
Anthony Polsinelli: Me and Mr. John, we’re out there early in the morning, Mr. Chad, the first thing I do, when I get over that dune, I look for that mound to be there from yesterday. And there’s a lot of days that it’s not, but there are some days that it’s completely intact from the day before.
Katherine Ruskey: That’s incredible. People sometimes don’t want to touch it because it is so beautiful.
Christina Polsinelli: Yeah, it’s cool. It’s really fun to do and it’s fun to see it there all day. You see people walking by coming by and taking pictures of it. Taking their pictures behind it. It’s fun.
Katherine Ruskey: Girls. Are you planning next year’s picture already or is that something that you’ll do the week before?
Christina Polsinelli: I’m already getting ideas. I look at kids bookbags.
Katherine Ruskey: That’s a good idea, very cool. So before we leave, let’s just take a roll call. Where you guys from? Which state?
Anthony Polsinelli: Mr. John you go first.
John Leahy: The Leahy’s are from New York State.
Katherine Ruskey: And the Baker’s?
The Baker Family: The Baker’s are from Eldersburg, Maryland.
Katherine Ruskey: And the Polsinelli’s?
Anthony Polsinelli:We’re from Baltimore, Maryland.
Katherine Ruskey: It was so nice to talk to you. Thank you so much for joining us. You were just the picture of how Ocean City is special to all families, Bringing everybody together and having a really good time here on the beach.
Anthony Polsinelli:We thank you for holding the contest this year. It was something our family told us about sometime in June or so and I said “We’re gonna be there in August. We’re gonna think of something to submit.” It was really cool that you had it and I’m super excited that we won.
Katherine Ruskey: We’ll have to look for you guys next year and see what you guys are gonna do.
John Leahy: If you look at Facebook, we have a page OC Sand sculptures. If you visit you can see everything we’ve ever done over the years.
Katherine Ruskey: That’s incredible. Everybody- Go out and visit OC Sand sculptures on Facebook and check out all of the Baker, Leahy, and Polsinelli sculptures from the past 20 years. Guys, we look forward to seeing what you’ll do for us next year.
Although a rainy weekend is forecast for this weekend, just yesterday, the sun was shining, a warm breeze was blowing, and the Boardwalk was busy with visitors enjoying the slightly slower pace of Ocean City in its second season. The kites are out at the Kite Loft for their Sunfest Kite Fest (yes, we know its not Sunfest Weekend, that happens on October 19-22 this year), there are more seagulls than people enjoying the beach, and stores selling t-shirts and taffy are open for business. Bike riders get to enjoy riding the Boardwalk all day long, and restaurants are busily serving those who are lucky enough to be here. We have put together some pictures to entice you to visit at this time of year, bearing in mind there’s not always a tropical storm hovering off the coast!
OCEAN CITY, MD — Sept. 21, 2023 — The Art League of Ocean City announces that a limited number of tickets are still available for the nonprofit organization’s Diamond Jubilee Gala. The event is on Saturday, Nov. 4 at the oceanfront Ashore Resort & Beach Club.
For 60 years, the Art League has fostered and celebrated the arts in Ocean City and beyond. The Diamond Jubilee Gala marks their diamond-year anniversary and is a fund-raiser and friend-raiser for the arts organization to continue its work.
The gala will offer guests a full bar, a palette of fine food for dining, dancing to “The Heartbeats,” Philadelphia’s hottest party band, the drawing of the winning 50/50 raffle ticket with a potential $30,000 payout, plus some surprise activities for which the Art League is noted.
“Please join us for the ‘pARTy of the Year’ in Ocean City,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, said. “It will be an evening to remember. The fare will be exceptional; the venue and ocean view, spectacular; and the big-city entertainment, outstanding. And you’ll be supporting a very worthy cause while you’re having fun mingling with our wonderful guests. Tickets are selling quickly, so we suggest reserving yours early if you’d like to attend.”
“We would also like to thank our top-level sponsors who are already making this event a success for us, even before the big evening,” Thaler added. “These sponsors include the Gudelsky Group of Companies, the Ashore Resort & Beach Club, Paul and Emily Schwab, Bank of Ocean City, Jack Burbage Foundation, Seacrets, and Rina and Jeff Thaler.”
“Also, Jerry and Pat Selig, Carey Distributors, Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, Joan Jenkins Foundation, Snowden Lane, Pohanka of Salisbury, T&G Builders, John Sisson, Madlyn and Billy Carder, Jim and Jan Perdue, and T.E.A.M. Productions. And our gratitude goes out to our other sponsors, as well.
Tickets are $150 per person and available online at OCart.org/DiamondJubilee or by calling 410-524-9433.
The Art League of Ocean City isa nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing the visual arts to the community through education, exhibits, scholarship, programs and community art projects. Financial support comes primarily through membership dues from individuals and corporate sponsors.
A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for Worcester County, Md, meaning sustained winds of 40mph or more are expected within the next 36 hours.
According to the Weather Channel, there could be:
Peak Wind Forecast: 30-40 mph with gusts to 55 mph – Window for Tropical Storm force winds: early Saturday morning until Saturday morning.
Localized storm surge possible – Peak Storm Surge Inundation: The potential for 1-3 feet above ground somewhere within surge prone areas – Window of concern: Friday evening until Sunday morning.
Peak Rainfall Amounts: 2-4 inches, with locally higher amounts
Large breaking waves of 2 to 5 ft will result in dangerous surf conditions and a high risk for rip currents.
Be prepared for coastal flooding and isolated to scattered power outages. Please be careful on the beach and follow the life guards instructions. Always remember to keep your feet in the sand until the lifeguard’s in the stand.
As the summer season gradually transitions to fall, Ocean City, Maryland, continues to shine as a year-round destination with a captivating lineup of 5 post-Labor Day events. Beyond the sun-soaked beaches, Ocean City boasts a vibrant calendar filled with diverse activities catering to a wide range of interests. Here, we present the big events that grace Ocean City during this special time, including “Sunfest,” “OCtoberfest Shore Craft Beer Festival,” “Bike Week,” “Oceans Calling,” and “Endless Summer Cruisin’.”
Bikes on the Boardwalk for Bike Week in Ocean City
Motorcycle enthusiasts can look forward to the thunderous roar of engines during Ocean City Bike Week. This annual gathering attracts bikers from across the nation who come to enjoy scenic rides along Coastal Highway, admire custom bikes, and immerse themselves in live entertainment, including concerts and stunt shows. The sense of camaraderie and the stunning coastal backdrop make this event a memorable experience for all motorcycle enthusiasts.
The music line-up for Oceans Calling 2023 is pretty impressive!
“Oceans Calling” is a unique event that combines education and adventure for those who feel a special connection to the ocean. This multi-day festival focuses on marine conservation and offers visitors the chance to participate in beach cleanups, guided nature walks, and informative talks by marine biologists. It’s a meaningful way to give back to the environment and deepen your appreciation for Ocean City’s natural beauty.
Car enthusiasts will be thrilled to join the Endless Summer Cruisin’ event. Taking place in early October, this gathering showcases an impressive array of classic cars, hot rods, and custom vehicles. Streets and parking lots transform into a paradise for car enthusiasts, complete with a swap meet and car auctions. Whether you’re a collector or simply appreciate automotive craftsmanship, this event offers a visual feast for all.
Sunfest, Ocean City’s iconic celebration of arts, crafts, music, and cuisine, marks the perfect way to kick off the post-Labor Day season. With hundreds of vendors showcasing their unique creations, live entertainment on multiple stages, and a tantalizing array of culinary delights, Sunfest is a feast for the senses and a beloved event for families and friends alike.
The Other One Brewing Company is the only brewery actually in Ocean City.
For beer enthusiasts, OCtoberfest Shore Craft Beer Festival is a must-attend event. Held in Sunset Park in downtown Ocean City, this festival offers an impressive selection of craft beers, mead, seltzers and more from local and regional breweries. As you savor your favorite brews, enjoy live music by the Dunehounds, games, and indulge in delicious food from a wide variety of food trucks. It’s an opportunity to raise your glass in the spirit of Oktoberfest while taking in the coastal atmosphere. There will be over 40 different beverages to sample from 15+ local breweries and meaderies.
Ocean City MD Running Festival (October 28, 2023)
Runners take to the boards.
The Ocean City MD Running Festival is coming to Ocean City on October 28th with four options: you can run a Marathon, a Half-Marathon, an 8K or a 5K option so it should appeal to runners of all ages and abilities. This is the first year so check out what Corrigan Sports is bringing to Ocean City. AND – if you are here for the race, but want to participate in the Octoberfest Shore Craft Beer Fest, just use the code “save5” to Save $5 on each ticket you purchase online on ShoreCRaftBeerFest.com.
Ocean City’s post-Labor Day events offer something for everyone, whether you’re an art lover, beer connoisseur, motorcycle enthusiast, or nature enthusiast. With a backdrop of ocean waves and the coastal breeze, these events provide a unique opportunity to savor the charm and culture of this beloved beach destination well into the autumn season. So, pack your bags and prepare for a memorable Ocean City experience that goes beyond the summer months
Typically, everybody thinks about Ocean City in the winter, plans in the Spring, enjoys the summer in our beach resort town and then leaves the beach for work, school, and family obligations after Labor Day. I’m here to tell you that there isn’t a more beautiful place to visit than Assateague Island after Labor Day.
Ashley Mowery-Steele – Horses joining us for a beach picnic on Assateague Island. Summer is about people and the joy of hot days at the beach, but Assateague after Labor Day has its own advantages.
The sun is lower in the sky, it’s golden light seems more golden, the shadows seem longer, and the beach is relatively deserted. Gone are the crowds and with them some of the excitement and fun of a beautiful summer beach resort. However, while there may be nostalgia for kids laughing and playing in the surf, the quiet and solitude of a wide open beach with lots of wildlife and waves dotted with surfers has its own reward.
Surfers at Assateague waiting for waves from Hurricane Lee.
Hurricanes churn the Atlantic and if we are lucky, they travel north far off the coast, not threatening any beaches but churning up larger waves that push towards shore with long period swells. This is what the surfer waits all year for and what she plays on during this fleeting time of year.
You can even work from the beach!
If you want to see magical beauty, because there is no other way to describe it, then pack your beach chairs, a bottle of water, and perhaps even a blanket and head to Assateague Island.
Everybody can enjoy Assateague. There are benches and elevated boardwalks so you can see the ocean even if you don’t want to walk on the beach.Assateague after Labor Day offers wide open vistas and green dune grasses as well as the blue skies and deep blue green ocean.You won’t believe the colors at Assateague when the days get shorter after Labor Day.This picture was taken with an iPhone – no color adjustment. It is truly that magical on Assateague.You can build a bonfire on the beach below the mean high tide line if you want to linger longer and enjoy the chill that late summer and autumn bring to the beach. A group gathering requires a permit.To cap off the beauty, a rainbow appeared where the pot of gold was the Assateague sign.As you leave the island, you pass the marshes. Frequently filled with birds and even the wild ponies, this view is just as beautiful as the beach.
Congratulations to the Trio of families that are now best of friends for winning Oceancity.com’s August Sand Castle Contest! We can’t wait to see what you’re planning for next year! Let’s meet The Baker Family from Eldersburg, Maryland.
Family Name: Baker
Who are the members and ages of your family:
Chad 52, Stacey 50, Ridgley 20, Ryan 18
Where are you from? Eldersburg, MD
How long is your drive? 3 hours
Where do you like to stay? Mid town 52-53rd St
How long have you been vacationing in Ocean City? Since we were all very young children
Family Favorites
Morning Activity: Set up beach camp to include building huge pile for Sandcastle later, bike riding and walking
Beach or Pool: Beach all the way
Favorite Beach Snack: Twizzlers
Must have items in your beach bag: Towel, chair clips, magazines, snacks, paint brush, napkins, trash bag, sunglasses cleaner, tissue
Breakfast Spot: beach
Lunch Spot: beach
Dinner Restaurant: Belly Busters delivered to the beach
Boardwalk Store: K Coast
Ice Cream Flavors: Dumsers black raspberry
Popcorn Flavors: caramel
Walk the boardwalk or ride the tram? Walk
Beach nap or swim in the ocean? Both
Tell All
Who sleeps in later on vacation? Ridgley and Ryan
Who is the better mini golf player? Ryan
Who packs the most clothes? Stacey
Who gets the most excited to come to Ocean City? Everyone
Who is most likely to jump in the ocean first? Ryan
Who is most likely to want to ride The Tidal Wave Roller Coaster? Ridgley
In 50 words or less, explain why you love Ocean City.
We enjoy the small town resort feeling that allows you to enjoy a beautiful clean beach relaxing with family and friends. The sunrises are invigorating and the sunsets are calming and beautiful. The salt air and hustle of the town always makes you feel like a kid again the minute you arrive.
Congratulations to the Trio of families that won the August Sand Castle Contest. Ocean City has truly brought people together and helped to create life long friends and even more memories. Let’s meet The Leahy Family from Holmes, New York!
Family Name: Leahy
Who are the members and ages of your family:
John and Laura, Kelly (27), Jill (24), Cara (22), Emma (18), Michael (17)
Where are you from? Holmes, NY
How long is your drive? 5 hours on a good day
Where do you like to stay? Seal Beach on 52nd St.
How long have you been vacationing in Ocean City? 23 years
Family Favorites
Morning Activity: Dunkin’ and Fractured Prune runs
Beach or Pool: Beach, always
Favorite Beach Snack: Tootsie Pops
Must have items in your beach bag: sunscreen and a good book
Breakfast Spot: Bad Monkey
Lunch Spot: Lunch on the Beach
Dinner Restaurant: In our kitchen or on the beach at 8pm
Boardwalk Store: Kite Loft
Ice Cream Flavors: Mint Chocolate Chip
Popcorn Flavors: Caramel
Walk the boardwalk or ride the tram? Walk
Beach nap or swim in the ocean? Swim in the ocean and then a beach nap
Tell All
Who sleeps in later on vacation? No one really, can’t cut into beach time!
Who packs the most clothes? Jill
Who gets the most excited to come to Ocean City? Michael
Who is most likely to jump in the ocean first? Emma
Who is most likely to want to ride The Tidal Wave Roller Coaster? Kelly
In 50 words or less, explain why you love Ocean City.
Ocean City has become a home away from home for our family. We have made life long friends who have become family over the years. Ocean City holds such special memories for our family and we always eagerly anticipate coming back each year.
Congratulations to the Trio of Families that won the last sand castle contest of the summer. The amount of skill that it takes to create these sand sculptures is incredible. But the amount of fun surpasses it all. Let’s learn about one third of the winners- the Polsinelli Family from Baltimore, Maryland.
Family Name: Polsinelli
Anthony, age 59
Denise, age 58
Gabriella, age 29
Gabriella’s Husband Christopher, age 30
Christina, age 25
Where are you from? Baltimore
How long is your drive? 2½ hrs
Where do you like to stay? Constellation House – 52nd st oceanfront
How long have you been vacationing in Ocean City? 40 yrs
Family Favorites
Morning Activity: watching the sunrise from the beach while setting up chairs and umbrellas for our entire group, taking a walk
Walk the boardwalk or ride the tram? Walk the boardwalk
Beach nap or swim in the ocean? Can’t decide cause we do both everyday
Tell All
Who sleeps in later on vacation? Gabriella and Christina
Who is the better mini golf player? Anthony
Who packs the most clothes? Denise
Who gets the most excited to come to Ocean City? Anthony & Christina
Who is most likely to jump in the ocean first? Christina
Who is most likely to want to ride The Tidal Wave Roller Coaster? Anthony
In 50 words or less, explain why you love Ocean City.
We go the same week every year (White Marlin Open week), stay at the same place and look forward to spending the week with our OC families again. We stay on the beach all day (and evening), build sand sculptures every day, play games and even have a fire pit one night with food and music. It’s a blast! Can’t wait to make more OC memories again next year.
Captain Kerry is a native of the Eastern Shore. Born in Milford, DE, he got his start fishing in the Indian River Inlet in 1968 and began fishing full-time the following year. Like many fishermen in the area, Kerry came from a fishing family. His father was an avid sport fisherman. Although he passed away when Kerry was six, Kerry continued his legacy of sportfishing, which took him to many places around the world, including the Bahamas, Mexico, and the Virgin Islands. Though he enjoyed traveling, he was often gone for up to three months at a time, which made it hard to settle down and start a family. Eventually, his brother proposed they work together, and Kerry settled back on the Eastern Shore in 1979. It wasn’t until right before the COVID-19 pandemic began that his current business, Seaborn Seafood, was able to come to full fruition with the help of his son and grandson. With his son taking over operations on the Seaborn, and his grandson taking over operations on the Integrity, another one of Kerry’s boats,
Seaborn’s vessel, Integrity, is docked in the West Ocean City Marina. Photo Credit: Zach Garmoe
Kerry was able to shift his focus to starting a more permanent seafood market, and thus, Seaborn Seafood was born. Currently, three generations work at Seaborn, and another generation is right in line to learn the family business. Kerry’s daughter also helps with cutting fish and operating the market. Kerry explained that when it gets busy in the summer, he is thankful to have some extra help with cutting, as it is difficult for them to cut fish as quickly as they sell them. Though not nearly as busy in the winter, Kerry explained that even during that time of year they bring in a great diversity of seafood including lobsters, seabass, monkfish, squid, porgys, and mackerel. Moving more into spring, they will begin to catch more tuna, swordfish, pomfret, and mako shark. Seaborn Seafood is able to bring in such a diversity of products because they utilize several different fishing methods. One of these methods uses a longline, which is comprised of a very long trail of fishing line with many baited hooks. Kerry said that they typically use about 20 miles of fishing line during their longline trips. These lines can be set at many different depths depending on what species the fisher is trying to catch or avoid.
The logo for Seaborn Seafood at their stand in the West Ocean City Marina. Photo Credit: Zach Garmoe
The Seaborn also utilizes traps known as pots, similar to the well-known ones used to catch the blue crab. Kerry noted that out of all his gear, pots typically take the most preparation as you have to set, retrieve, and clean them and make sure they are in running order for the start of the season. For a relatively small boat that Kerry built himself, it is impressive that the Seaborn has three different fishing options on board. Kerry built the Seaborn from scratch, and it has been through everything with him. He has taken the Seaborn to the Yucatan Peninsula, the Florida Keys, and even Cuba. It is equipped with living quarters, showers, a galley, and is still able to hold twenty thousand pounds of fish below deck. In addition to their adventures, Kerry and the Seaborn have also seen many changes to the commercial fishing industry and the OC Fisherman’s Marina since their first voyage.
Kerry and his grandson. Photo Credit: Zach Garmoe
Despite its many challenges, Kerry loves the life that fishing has given him and appreciates all of the places he was able to see. Every day he is on the water, he enjoys the “excitement of the unknown” and the anticipation of seeing what is in his net or at the end of the lines. With the establishment of Seaborn Seafood, Kerry has been able to get experience with the market and retail end of seafood sales, where he enjoys some added bonuses. “The neatest part [of retail] is to meet so many people. Everybody’s got a story to tell. That is another really rewarding part of this job”, he says. Alongside the great people he meets at the market, he also appreciates other fishermen in the harbor who are like family to him. In the future, Kerry is looking forward to further mentoring the younger generations at Seaborn Seafood. His great grandsons, seven-year-old twins and a two-year-old, already practice throwing a cast net with him. He worries a lack of young people will cause the industry to die off, but he always hopes to “keep the light lit” so the commercial fishing fleet of Ocean City can continue to persist. Though he is unsure about the future of Ocean City’s commercial fishing industry, Kerry only has plans to expand his company
For over two decades, OceanCity.com has stood as the quintessential source of information, inspiration, and connection for Ocean City and its vibrant community. Since our inception in 1999, our platform has been dedicated to illuminating the myriad businesses, individuals, attractions, and the very essence that defines the Ocean City area. We don’t just inform; we empower visitors to craft their perfect vacations, ensuring unforgettable experiences with every visit.
Beyond being a beacon for tourists, we are the pulse of Ocean City’s news, serving as a dedicated source for updates that matter to those seeking the Ocean City experience. Our commitment extends far beyond the confines of mere text—our live webcams, videos, and captivating imagery immerse you in the sights and sounds of this coastal gem. We’re not just about commerce; we embrace our role as stewards of the local community by sharing valuable insights from non-profit organizations.
In the face of Mother Nature’s fury, we stand resilient, covering the impact of storms as they ebb and flow, safeguarding our readers with timely information. Perhaps most significantly, OceanCity.com is more than a static entity; we’re an interactive hub, responsive to the needs and queries of both visitors and businesses. It’s through this dynamic engagement that we’ve proudly reached over 12 million individuals in the past 28 days alone. In essence, OceanCity.com is more than a website; it’s a vibrant, living testament to the Ocean City experience, and we’re here to make your journey unforgettable.
OceanCity.com’s Facebook page reaches over 12 million people in the last 28 days!
If you haven’t liked and followed the OceanCity.com Facebook page, you are missing out.
For Visitors, OceanCity.com is Your Ultimate Vacation Planning Hub
Stephanie Ryan entered the Photo Friday Contest with this image of the perfect summer vacation in Ocean City.
Planning a vacation can be a thrilling yet daunting task. From selecting the perfect place to stay to finding the finest dining experiences and discovering exciting activities, the choices are endless. Fortunately, OceanCity.com is here to simplify your vacation planning process and enhance your Ocean City experience. The immense value of OceanCity.com for travelers seeking accommodations, restaurant recommendations, and a comprehensive list of things to do is due to the work OceanCity.com does to partner with businesses across town so we can find the best Ocean City has to offer. That is why businesses should partner with OceanCity.com to connect with potential customers, backed by impressive statistics that demonstrate our outreach.
Vacation Planning Made Easy for Over A Million Visitors Each Year
Ocean City offers a wide array of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to cozy beachfront cottages. Navigating this sea of choices can be overwhelming, but OceanCity.com’s user-friendly interface and extensive listings make it a breeze. Our comprehensive database of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals complete with detailed descriptions, photos, and reviews, ensures you can find the perfect place to stay that suits your budget and preferences. The platform allows you to compare prices, check availability, and even book directly, saving you time and effort.
The culinary scene in Ocean City is diverse and vibrant, featuring a multitude of dining establishments. There are many new restaurants with menus and drinks that make you think you are in the vibrant downtown of a big city rather than your favorite beach resort on the Eastern Shore. OceanCity.com offers a dedicated section for restaurant recommendations, where you can explore an extensive list of dining options. Each listing includes information on cuisine, price range, location helping you make informed choices. Our “Save Money Ocean City” group offers a platform to ask for advice and receive it, Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, international flavors, or a cozy family-friendly spot, OceanCity.com has you covered.
Ocean City is not just about its pristine beaches; it’s a hub of entertainment and activities. OceanCity.com provides a comprehensive guide to the city’s attractions, events, and recreational opportunities. From water sports and amusement parks to historical landmarks and cultural festivals, you can explore a plethora of options to fill your itinerary. The website’s detailed descriptions, insider tips, and event calendars ensure you won’t miss out on any exciting experiences during your vacation.
Businesses Partnering with OceanCity.com
In the digital age, businesses recognize the importance of online presence and engagement with potential customers. OceanCity.com offers a valuable platform for businesses to connect with their target audience, thanks to its impressive reach and engagement statistics:
Facebook: OceanCity.com’s Facebook page boasts remarkable engagement numbers, reaching over 12 million people in the last 28 days and being followed by over 230,000 individuals. This extensive reach ensures that businesses partnering with OceanCity.com can tap into a massive potential customer base through social media.
Businesses attract the perfect Ocean City customer on OceanCity.com’s Facebook page.
Website Traffic: With well over 1 million unique potential customers visiting the OceanCity.com site annually, businesses have the opportunity to showcase their products and services to a highly motivated audience actively seeking information and recommendations about Ocean City.
OceanCity.com attracted over 1/2 a million unique users in just 90 days!
Newsletter Subscribers: OceanCity.com’s newsletter boasts an impressive subscriber base of over 65,000. This means businesses can directly reach a substantial audience interested in the latest updates, promotions, and offerings in Ocean City.
Instagram: OceanCity.com’s Instagram following exceeds 30,000, providing an additional avenue for businesses to engage with potential customers and share their offerings. This platform is a priority and is showing continued growth.
By partnering with OceanCity.com, businesses gain access to a powerful marketing channel that not only increases their online visibility but also connects them with a vast and engaged audience actively seeking information and services related to Ocean City.
Helping Travelers Find Businesses and Vice Versa
OceanCity.com is a valuable resource for travelers looking to plan their Ocean City vacation, offering a one-stop-shop for finding accommodations, restaurant recommendations, and discovering things to do. Its user-friendly interface and comprehensive listings make vacation planning a breeze. Moreover, businesses stand to benefit immensely from partnering with OceanCity.com, given its impressive outreach on Facebook, website traffic, newsletter subscribers, and Instagram followers. It’s a win-win situation, where travelers find the best experiences, and businesses find their ideal customers, all through the vibrant platform that is OceanCity.com. So, dive into the Ocean City experience with OceanCity.com, and make your vacation unforgettable.
Historically, the “Pop-up Rally” car event occurs near the end of September. In anticipation of the possibility of the event coming back to Ocean City, all roads within the Town of Ocean City will be designated a SpecialEventZone beginning Tuesday, September 19, 2023, through Sunday, September 24, 2023.
While the event appears to have moved on from calling Ocean City its home, the Ocean City Police Department and the Town of Ocean City want to ensure our residents and visitors that we remain vigilant and proactive to ensure the Town is a safe and welcoming destination. The “Pop-up Rally” is a car meet/show driven by social media rather than an organized event with a designated promoter. Therefore, the eventcan occur whenever and wherever they are promoted on social media. The Ocean City Police Department will continue to monitor social media along with having a presence on our roadways.
Slower Speed Limits and Increased Fines for Violations
The SpecialEventZone reduces established speed limits in the zone and increases fines for violations. The maximum speed limit in Ocean City will be 30 mph. Additionally, legislation signed in 2020 allows for increased penalties for specific motor vehicle violations. Similar to a Construction Zone, violators will face increased fines or, in some cases, arrest.
Significant Police Presence
During this time frame, citizens should expect to see a significant police presence within the Town of Ocean City. Officers will strictly enforce all traffic laws. If the event does occur, residents and visitors can expect some traffic congestion, and alternate traffic patterns are anticipated throughout the weekend.
Walk Smart!
Spectators are urged to keep the sidewalks clear for pedestrian traffic and should not incite the spinning of wheels or “burn-outs” by motorists. Officers will enforce all laws for spectators who incite drivers and enforce the violations with the driver. Further, with high pedestrian traffic expected, pedestrians are urged to Walk Smart! and always use crosswalks when crossing roadways. Wait for the signal to change, and be sure drivers see you while crossing.
Summer break may be ending but the Town of Ocean City has big events scheduled which will affect the inlet parking lot as well as the municipal lot at N. Division Street. The Inlet Parking Lot will be closed for public parking from Sunday, September 10th until Sunday, October 8, 2023, to accommodate several upcoming events. The N. Division Street lot will only be closed during Oceans Calling.
Upcoming Events That Will Use the Parking Lot
The bikes roared into town on September 16th 2021 for Bike Week
Ocean City Bike Fest Closures (9/10 – 9/17)
The Inlet Lot will be hosting several large events during the month of September and October. The first event will be OC BikeFest. While OC BikeFest is scheduled to occur from September 13th through September 17th, the promoters will start setting up the concert and vendor area on Sunday, September 10th. During the event, OC BikeFest will have limited motorcycle-only parking in the Inlet Lot. Parking spaces will be on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Oceans Calling Closures
(Inlet Lot 9/18-10/4 and Municipal Lot at North Division Street 9/20-10/4)
As OC BikeFest begins to break down its event, the Inlet Lot will transition right into setting up for the Oceans Calling Festival. In addition, the Municipal Parking Lot at North Division Street will be closed from Wednesday, September 20th until approximately Wednesday, October 4th to accommodate the set-up and breakdown and will serve as part of the concert footprint area. The Oceans Calling Festival will take place from September 29th through October 1st.
Endless Summer Cruising’ Closures (10/5-10/8)
After the Oceans Calling Festival, the Inlet Parking Lot will transition over to the Endless Summer Cruisin’ Event. The Endless Summer Cruisin’ Event is scheduled for Thursday, October 5th through Sunday, October 8th. Vehicles participating in the Endless Summer Cruisin’ Event will be permitted to park in the Inlet Parking Lot from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The promoter would like to remind participants that the Inlet Parking lot fills up quickly on Friday and Saturday, therefore being in the parade does not guarantee parking in the Inlet. The Inlet Lot Parking will be available to the public after 5 p.m. each day during this event. The Inlet Lot will resume normal operations after 4:30 p.m. on Sunday.
Alternative Parking Options
If you paid for parking in Ocean City, check your charges
There are several alternatives for municipal and street parking during the Inlet Lot closure. If you plan to attend one of these events or take a stroll on the Boardwalk, visit our website to learn about our parking options. Parking information available here: https://www.oceancity.com/parking/
The Ocean City Inlet Lot will be closed to public parking from Sunday, September 10 until Sunday, October 8, 2023. The lot will re-open to the public after 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, October 8th.
Plan for Congestion
Bring friends and try all the hand-mixed cocktails at the Wedge overlooking the inlet in Ocean City, MD.
The downtown area is expected to be congested over the next several weeks with lots of great events happening. Plan to leave early and stay a little later to avoid traffic congestion. Parking will be limited, especially during the Oceans Calling Festival. The Ocean City Beach Bus is a great alternative to trying to find parking in the busy downtown area.
Let’s take a walking tour of downtown Ocean City with Glenn Irwin, the previous Executive Director of the Ocean City Development Corporation, a non-profit dedicated to the preservation and betterment of downtown Ocean City, Maryland. If you are looking for something to do in Ocean City, then put on your walking shoes and get ready to dive back into the history or our oceanfront resort town.
Old Town Ocean City, MD
Just a little background on downtown Ocean City which is the oldest part of Ocean City. Much of “Old Town” is found south of N. Division Street or the road where Route 50 bridge enters Ocean City. It developed in the late 1800’s. There are several buildings still around from that era. This walking tour loop is one of many options and covers about 1 mile in length. It highlights several buildings, properties and projects in the downtown area. Each building, property, and street in downtown has its own story, history, and special points of interests. It is these elements that make Ocean City and its downtown area such an interesting and loved place for so many residents and visitors.
Sunset Park
Here, Glenn starts his downtown Ocean City walking tour at Sunset Park.
This walking tour starts at Sunset Park, which is located at 700 S. Philadelphia Avenue, just south of the US Coast Guard station, near the inlet. The park was designed with the cooperation of the Town of Ocean City and Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) in 2006. Prior to this use the property was a dead-end street that was primarily used for construction staging operations for off-season capital projects by the Town. Historically this street, which is the extension of S. Division Street to the bay was the location of the train bridge that connected Ocean City to West Ocean City. This train bridge was destroyed in the 1933 storm, which also created the Ocean City inlet. The train served two purposes; to bring people to Ocean City and to transport fish caught by OC locals to larger markets. Before tourism, fishing was an important industry for the early residents of Ocean City.
Currently, Sunset Park is used for a variety of events, including weddings, free weekly concerts, during the summer season, and as a passive park. It is also the location of the Shore Craft Beer festival that will be held on October 28th of this year. It is a very popular location for birdwatchers, too.
Sunset Park in Ocean City is a great place for live music.
Immediately to the south of Sunset Park is a privately owned property that has been approved for an 8-story hotel with restaurant. Pursuit of a development permit and construction of this new project is expected to start sometime after this 2023 summer season.
Cropper’s Fish Camp
The historic Cropper’s Fish Camp House in downtown Ocean City, MD.
Heading east along S. Division Street one will come to 103 South Division Street. This structure was built about 1912 and is very similar to many of the older buildings that were constructed in Ocean City at that time and referred to as a “Fish Camp” house. These housed often served as the office of the fish camp owner and provided housing for the fishing crew. These were very simple buildings with deep front porches. This specific building was also included in the setting of the 1984 movie called “Violets Are Blue” which featured Sissy Spacek and Kevin Kline.
Many locations in downtown Ocean City have historic plaques or signs.
Henry Hotel
The Henry Hotel, an historic hotel in Ocean City, MD which was owned by and operated for African Americans.
Immediately east of this building, one arrives at the Henry Hotel. Sometimes referred to as the Henry’s Colored Hotel due to its importance in the segregation years of Ocean City. It was constructed in 1916 and was listed on the “green book” of places that African-Americans were only allowed to stay during the segregation days of the 1960s and prior. This building is on the Worcester County African-American Heritage Trail. A nonprofit organization, called the Henry Hotel Foundation was recently established to work with the property owners to renovate the building as well as to highlight its importance in the history of Ocean City.
Trimper Rides
One of the oldest operating carousels in the United States.
From this location we walk south along S. Baltimore Avenue passing the Trimper Rides to our east. The Trimper Rides have been a mainstay in Ocean City for over a century and along with the boardwalk, attract many visitors to the downtown area. The highlight of these carnival rides is the 1902 Hershman-Spellman carousel which is contained in the interior of the Trimper Rides building. Making a left turn we enter S. 1st Street, which runs through the Trimper Rides on both sides of the street. This attractive pedestrian way that runs from S. Baltimore Avenue to the boardwalk was a joint project of the State of Maryland, OCDC, Town of Ocean City, and Trimper Rides. This project was completed about 2005.
Ocean City Boardwalk
You can see many interesting locations just off the famous Ocean City Boardwalk. Here, Glenn is showing us Somerset Plaza.
This pedestrian street takes us to the popular Ocean City boardwalk which dates back to 1902. Several of the property owners would install boardwalk decking in front of their properties and remove it once the season was over. In 1920, a permanent boardwalk was constructed. The boardwalk was totally redesigned in 1999 and has been re-decked over the past two winters. The boardwalk has been rated one of the best boardwalks in the country. The boardwalk runs from the Ocean City Inlet to 27th Street; it is 2 1/4 miles long. The beach and boardwalk are two primary attractions for Ocean City visitors as well as its residents.
Ocean City Lifesaving Museum
The Ocean City Lifesaving Museum is a great thing to do in Ocean City, MD.
From S.1st Street, one can look or walk to the south end of the boardwalk and see the Ocean City Lifesaving Station Museum. This museum has a number of very good exhibits that tell some interesting stories of the history of this area. It also serves as the historic research and depository of records for the Town of Ocean City. Originally this 1891 building was located at Caroline Street and the boardwalk, however, in the 1970s, it was relocated to the current spot at the south end of the boardwalk.
Some of the Oldest Buildings in Ocean City
Walking northwards along the boardwalk from S. 1st Street, one will see some of the oldest buildings and businesses in Ocean City. For example, Dolle’s Candyland store at Wicomico Street which is over 100 years old. On the east side of the boardwalk is the pier building, constructed in 1926; it contains more rides and attractions and is managed by Jolly Rogers Amusements. On the Boardwalk side of this building is Thrasher French Fries and Ripley’s Believe It Or Not museum. Continuing north, we pass by Wicomico Street which contains many of the popular bars that serve locals and visitors alike.
Atlantic Hotel
The Atlantic Hotel is on the boardwalk in Ocean City, Maryland.
Walking further north one will see many of the boardwalk businesses that have been in existence for many years. Of significance is the Atlantic Hotel, which was originally built in 1875 and is considered the founding of the Town of Ocean City. This building burned down in 1925. It was rebuilt the following year and continues to serve Ocean City visitors in this prime boardwalk spot.
Somerset Plaza
Somerset Plaza has a park-like feel and free wifi.
Further north we pass the archway sign of Somerset Plaza, which is a semi pedestrian street designed and constructed by the OCDC and Town of Ocean City in 2002. Along this street are a number of businesses and an eatery that provides outdoor seating. During the summer months, there are several smaller special events held on the street, for example, car displays by the OC Cruzers and their custom cars.
Public Art
Public art in downtown Ocean City MD
Just north of the Belmont Tower building at Dorchester Street, one will find Fishers Popcorn store, a long-standing business in Ocean City. Now we head back to Dorchester Street and walk west passing some of the wall murals completed as part of the OCDC public art program as well as several of the 35 painted utility boxes found throughout the downtown area. Many of these projects are joint projects between the OCDC and the Art League of Ocean City.
Bank of Ocean City becomes the New Ocean City Life Saving Museum Annex
Coming to the corner of S. Baltimore Avenue and Dorchester Street one sees the former Bank Ocean City building, which was donated by the Bank to the Town of Ocean City about 2 years ago. This building is expected to be under full renovation after the summer of 2023 with the intent of it becoming an annex to the OC Lifesaving Station Museum. It will contain a number of exhibits and information on the history of Ocean City.
Employee Housing
On the west side of S. Baltimore Avenue at the same intersection, one can see the recently constructed Fat Daddys restaurant, a popular eatery. This building also contains upper floor employee housing. The Downtown has a high concentration of employee housing; particularly seasonal housing for American and foreign workers. The summer labor force is vital to the overall Ocean City economy. Many of these foreign college students come via what is called a J-1 program, which allows a student to work four months at their host city. Many of Ocean City’s J-1 students come from East Europe, Dominican Republic, parts of Asia, and several other countries.
Dorchester Street/Talbot Street
St Marys by the Sea Catholic Church is the oldest building in Ocean City.
Continuing our walking tour north along S. Baltimore Ave., we pass the Dorchester/Talbot block, which has a number of recently constructed and renovated buildings. Many of these buildings were assisted by the OCDC and its façade improvement program which provides state funds for building renovation of older buildings. At 208 S. Baltimore Avenue, one passes the Saint Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church, which is considered the oldest building in Ocean City. This church was constructed about 1897. It has been fully renovated and is one of several downtown churches, which play in important role in the Ocean city community.
More Ocean City Historic Buildings
Glenn describes some of the historic buildings during his downtown walking tour.
Continuing one block north on S. Baltimore Ave., we come to Caroline Street. At the southwest corner of this intersection is a building which is one of the few and oldest Victorian era style buildings in Ocean City. This building contains Soprano’s Pizza restaurant on the first floor and residential units on the upper floors. Continuing west on Caroline Street we arrive at a very quiet street (one way traffic west bound only) surprisingly, considering it’s only one block south of the heavily trafficked N. Division Street. This street contains a number of older buildings.
White Marlin Fountain Welcomes You to Ocean City
The white marlin fountain welcomes you to Ocean City. It sits at the foot of the Route 50 bridge.
At the intersection of this street and S. Philadelphia Avenue, we see the welcoming White Marlin sculpture and water feature positioned at the entrance of Ocean City, at the base of Route 50 bridge. This significant stainless-steel sculpture was OCDC ‘s first public art project and was constructed in 2002 with private donations. The water feature was added one year afterwards with additional private contributions.
Turning left and heading south on S. Philadelphia Avenue, one can see a large number of older buildings. Many of these continue to provide employee and year-round housing for Ocean City and its strong tourism economy.
Ocean City Beach Patrol Headquarters
The Ocean City Beach Patrol headquarters is a beautiful building in downtown Ocean City, MD.
Located at the south east corner of S. Philadelphia Avenue and Talbot Street is the Ocean City Beach Patrol headquarters. This is an important facility for all of Ocean City and in particular an anchor for the downtown district. This attractive building was constructed about 2015 and solidified the importance of the Ocean City Beach Patrol and its history. It is a good example of a newly constructed building following the downtown design standards.
Tarry A While Guest House
The Tarry A While is a fully renovated historic building which now houses OCDC and Beach Patrol housing.
Immediately south of this building at 108 Dorchester St. is the office of the OCDC which also provides housing for the summer lifeguards on the second and third floors. This building is called the Tarry A While Guesthouse; constructed in 1897. It was originally located at 8 Dorchester Street but was moved by the Town of Ocean City and OCDC in 2005 to save from demolition as that property was slated for redevelopment. It was fully restored by the Town and OCDC. Its wide porches, lap siding, and dormers make for an attractive seaside style architecture building that was often found in downtown Ocean City.
Boardwalk Style Walkway in front of Sunset Park and the Coast Guard Facility
The boardwalk style pavers were designed to mimic a boardwalk and to help realize the Town’s dream to have a bayside boardwalk.
Continuing on the west side of S. Philadelphia Avenue is a very wide pedestrian walkway. This was constructed as part of the 2008 street improvements of S. Philadelphia Avenue by the Maryland State Highway Administration. As one passes Dorchester Street to the west, you can see a number of older buildings that are used for seasonal employee housing.
Historic Ocean City Railway Station Location
Continuing southwards one passes the parking lot of the Kitchen restaurant. The parking lot of this restaurant was the actual location of the Ocean City railway station prior to the 1933 storm that destroyed the railroad bridge coming into Ocean City. Just south of this block is the Dumser’s Dairyland ice cream factory. You may notice, this building is a small replica of the pier building located on the boardwalk that currently contains the Ripley’s Museum.
US Coast Guard Station
We close out our walking tour passing the US Coast Guard station, which is immediately north of Sunset Park. The Coast Guard station is an important facility that provides safety to both recreational and commercial boaters on the Ocean City area waterways. If you have a chance to take this walking tour of downtown Ocean City, as mentioned, it is merely a summary of some of the interesting things one will find in the downtown area. For information on the history of Ocean City, one of the best places to start with the Ocean City Lifesaving Station Museum located at the south end of the Boardwalk.
