Winterfest of Lights has opened for 2022, and it will not disappoint! Northside Park comes alive as the sun goes down, and it sparkles where ever you look. Like the last couple of years, this year it’s a walk through event. But don’t let that put you off. On the contrary, this way there are less lines, you can go at your own speed, stop to take in your favorite view, take pictures in front of special displays, double back to see it all again, and really get in the holiday spirit. A great experience for people of every age including families, couples, friends, old and young. Children, literally squeal with delight, walk with eyes open wide, or sit back to enjoy the view in strollers and wagons. Older guests stroll around, taking the opportunity to rest on the many picnic tables dotted around the park, and some use the scooters available for rent at the entrance to the park. The walk itself is not that long, no more than half a mile, no more than walking round Walmart, to be honest. But it is so much more fun, you can’t help but smile as you take in the twinkling, shimmering light displays, and listen to the seasonal music playing throughout the park. So grab your hat, gloves, and comfy shoes, and head over to Northside Park for Ocean City’s Winterfest of Lights, you will not be disappointed!
Tickets can be purchased in advance, or at the event. Open Wednesday through Sunday 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Closed Monday and Tuesday nights. Hotel Packages can be found here, and more information on the event can be found here.
Boardwalk Businesses Inside Oceans Calling Festival Announced, Include 20 Best of Ocean City Winners!
Get ready to discover an amazing selection of local shops, restaurants, bars, arcades, and more! The Oceans Calling Festival team just released their list of businesses – in the graphic below. There are many winners of the OceanCity.com Best of Ocean City® awards over the last few years in this list so we have broken them out for you. All of these hidden gems are located at N. Division Street or south as you move towards the inlet. They are also within the festival grounds so you can access them to get food, go shopping, or enjoy a drink.
Remember, these businesses will only be accessible from inside the festival and will operate during festival hours.
Want to learn more about each local business? Head over to the Beyond The Music page for all the details. You can also head to OceanCity.com’s Best of Ocean City® section to find businesses that aren’t just there, but are also excellent.
Explore exciting attractions like Trimper’s Haunted House, Marty’s Playland Arcade, and indulge in local favorites like the Dough Roller, Fisher’s Popcorn and Kohr Bros Frozen Custard. There’s so much to see and do!
THE BEST OF OCEAN CITY® WINNERS INSIDE THE FESTIVAL GROUNDS
The Best of Ocean City® awards highlight the top local businesses that make Ocean City a beloved destination. For visitors and residents alike, these awards serve as a trusted guide to exceptional experiences, ensuring they can enjoy the best Ocean City has to offer. The businesses that win these awards do so based on votes or they are chosen as the very best by a panel of local experts. All of the businesses listed below have won our Best of Ocean City® award within the last few years.
As you explore the Oceans Calling festival, be sure to check out these boardwalk businesses within the festival footprint that have earned the coveted OceanCity.com Best of Ocean City® recognition. Please, don’t forget to vote for your favorite businesses while you are in town!
OC BikeFest live webcams are here. Rev your engines and get ready for a front-row seat to see some of the OC BikeFest action! We’re bringing the excitement right to your screen with two live webcams strategically placed to capture the heart of the festivities. First, head over to the Trimper’s Amusements webcam for a bird’s-eye view of the Inlet parking lot, where vendors and motorcycles start gathering at 4 pm. Then, zoom in on the Roland E. Powell Convention Center parking lot with the Dough Roller’s webcam to witness the epicenter of BikeFest events, with activities kicking off around midday. Whether you’re checking out the custom bikes, enjoying live music, or soaking up the atmosphere, these webcams offer a real-time glimpse into the OC BikeFest experience.
Hours to watch: 9am – 7 pm Wednesday through Saturday and 9 am – 2 pm on Sunday
The OC BikeFest Live Webcam showing the parking lot at the Roland E Powell Convention Center is fun to watch. Also, if you get hungry and want to sit down to eat, walk on over to the Dough Roller for breakfast, pizza and more.
Hours to watch: Start watching when the venue opens – Wednesday 4 pm, Thursday – Saturday at 3 pm.
Watch the OC BikeFest Live Webcam showing the activities at the inlet parking lot. The venue is not open at all on Sunday. You can just watch them clean up.
OC BikeFest and Delmarva Bike Week are two major motorcycle rallies that occur concurrently in mid-September on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, offering a thrilling experience for motorcycle enthusiasts. While they share the same passion for bikes, they have distinct characteristics. OC BikeFest, the larger of the two, takes place in Ocean City and boasts a lively atmosphere with major concerts, vendor villages, custom bike shows, and exciting stunt shows.
Delmarva Bike Week, centered in Salisbury, offers a more laid-back experience with concerts, vendors, and scenic rides through the picturesque Delmarva Peninsula. In essence, OC BikeFest is known for its high-energy party vibe, while Delmarva Bike Week provides a more relaxed and intimate setting. Both events contribute to the vibrant motorcycle culture of the region and attract thousands of riders each year.
You can also find more information and articles here: OC Bikefest Guide
Don’t miss Shore Craft Beer’s OCtoberfest, the ultimate craft beer festival on the Eastern Shore, happening in Ocean City next weekend, September 21st!
Here’s what you can expect:
16 Local Breweries: Sample the best brews the region has to offer.
Unlimited Tastings: Enjoy over 40 styles of beer, mead, hard tea, and seltzers.
Live Music: Groove to the sounds Transfuzion.
Vendors Galore: Shop for unique crafts and gifts.
Food Trucks: Satisfy your cravings with delicious eats.
Commemorative Pints: The first 1200 attendees get a special souvenir.
VIP, GA & DD Options: Choose the experience that’s right for you.
Family-Friendly: Bring the kids and even your furry friends!
Make it a Weekend Getaway!
Extend the fun with special OCtoberfest Hotel Packages. Enjoy festival tickets and other perks when you book your stay at one of Ocean City’s finest hotels. Your perfect fall weekend is complete!
This year, the event will take place in the new Bayside Park at 3rd Street. If you haven’t visited this beautiful new park yet, now is your chance! There’s loads of space, 2 great playgrounds for kids, and beautiful views of the bay.
Don’t wait! Get your tickets and book your hotel package today.
The second annual Ocean’s Calling Music Festival in Ocean City, Maryland is just two weeks away! Here are seven tips guaranteed to make your concert experience everything you wanted and more.
Secure and Activate Your Wristband Now
Wristbands have been mailed out to all ticket-holders. Once you have them, be sure you go to the Oceans Calling site to register them. If you didn’t get tickets before they sold out, there are still tickets available through the “Verified Resale” links on the Oceans Calling website.
Wristbands are NOT transferable
Wristbands are not transferrable from person-to-person and there’s a $20 cost to replace it if lost. Slide your wristband on ahead of time and secure it tightly so it doesn’t slip off. It’s your ticket into the concert and must be scanned on the way out as well. No exceptions!
Add Your Credit Card to Go Cashless with your Wristband
Cashless is the way to go in this type of venue. Register your wristband here and add your credit card so that you don’t need to worry about lugging your wallet out each time you want to purchase something. Ocean’s Calling is also offering a $10 credit for the first 2,000 people who activate their wrist band with a Chase credit card!
Here’s how to register for Cashless:
Activate your wristband and register your account with your Chase credit/debit card, or any other credit/debit card. Then set a required PIN for security.
During the festival, order at any food, drink, merch, or vendor and let them know you’re paying with your wristband.
Tap your wristband, enter your PIN, and you’re done!
If you do not register your wristband, cash is still an option for payments.
Plan How to Get There
Getting to and from the concert safely is Ocean City’s number one priority. Ocean City offers various routes of transportation to do just that. Remember, the doors open to the festival grounds every day at noon and the music starts every day at 12:30 pm.
Land Transportation
All you need to navigate the buses, parking lots, and other land transportation is the Oceans Calling Festival 2024: Parking & Transportation Guide. Remember, that “Ocean City is a barrier island with only three ways on and off the island. This means during special events that attract large amounts of visitors to the island; it’s a given that there are significant traffic and crowd issues.”
George Peake, the Director of Transportation for the Town of Ocean City offers some tips and insight:
Using our bus system:
Due to major residential developments surrounding our north bus station parking is VERY limited in the area
Public Parking at 100th Street near the library fills up fast
Convention Center parking is free, and we will be focusing on transporting people from these lots until they are full
The Coastal Highway bus service runs 6AM to 3AM next day; on a daily basis
We are running a shuttle service from/to Park “N’ Ride in west OC and it has free parking. This shuttle will operate during the hours of 6AM to 1AM next day during the concerts
Many will use the outlet mall parking as an overflow
We will be selling bus tickets, including multi-day tickets at the Park ‘N’ Ride facility
For Oceans Calling I have 165 bus deployments scheduled during the three day event; and for Country’s Calling, (a two day event), 100
Coming from over the Route 50 Bridge? Frontier Town also offers a shuttle that runs approximately every 2 hours. In addition, the bus station just outside of town across from the outlets will be coming in over the bridge as well.
Water Transportation
The OC Bay Hopper is offering rides via water from various locations. You must make reservations.
In addition, Saltwater Adventures is also offering a boat taxi service to and from Ocean’s Calling. They will be picking up from the public boat ramp in West Ocean City and dropping off at The Angler Restaurant. Running from 8:30am- midnight or just after all 3 days. Captain Tony recommends having breakfast at The Angler right there on the water. No reservations are required for shuttle services by Saltwater Adventures.
The Salty Siren will be transporting people from West Ocean City, next to Pier 23 to a spot near White Marlin Marina. They also offer a cash bar on the way to and from the concert. Reservations are required for these types of transportation. Click the links to find more information.
How Can Your Hotel Help?
Several hotels will be offering shuttle services from the hotel to a specific drop off point down by the concert. The Residence Inn is offering a shuttle service for their guests to get to and from the concert. Ask your hotel if they’re offering shuttle services or if there’s a bus stop near by.
Label Your Bicycle
If you were there last year, you know what I mean. Hundreds of bicycles are neatly lined up on bike racks that the city provides just north of the concert entrance. If you want to find your bicycle fast, make it visibly different than all the others. Make sure to bring your own locks and only use the offered bike racks. Bicycle is by far one of the safest and quickest ways to get to and from Ocean’s Calling.
Safety Note: If you do chose to cycle down to the concert, please be mindful of vehicle traffic and stay in bicycle lanes when you can. Traffic lights and cross walks are to be followed.
Bring Only Necessities
Who wants to lug around a bunch of stuff you don’t need. Bring only the bare necessities- wrist band to get in, phone to take all the selfies, and keys to get yourself back in your house. Blankets are allowed for concert goers to spread out in the sand and you can always tie your sweatshirt around your waist. (If you register your wristband with your credit card as mentioned above, it’s one less thing to carry.)
Making sure to bring your cell phone is an important step in preparing for Ocean’s Calling. In case of important announcements, concert goers will be able to receive information quickly via various news outlets.
If you are bringing in a bag, smaller ones (6″by 9″ or smaller) are allowed. If it’s a larger bag (12″x6″x12″) it must be clear.
Plan a Meet Up Spot Before Hand
There are charging stations set up for cellphones, but we all know no one wants to stand there and wait. If your cellphone does die, have a planned meet up spot for you and your friends to go to in case you can’t get ahold of each other.
Food Options
There is a lot of food from the Boardwalk shops which are all inside the footprint of the Oceans Calling Festival for 2024. There are also food vendors on the beach by the stages.
Get Hyped Up!
If you have Spotify, search up Ocean’s Calling 2024! They’ve uploaded an official playlist for you to practice your singing on the drive down to Ocean City!
Plan to Have a Good Time While Also Being Responsible
We all want to have a good time. Everyone wants to sing along to their favorite band, eat some great food, have a few drinks (or not). The most important thing is that everyone has a good time while also being safe. OceanCity.com wishes everyone a great concert and we can’t wait to see everyone there.
This look at OC Bikefest 2022 was published on September 15, 2022. We thought it was a fun blast from the past so think back to what you were doing 2 years ago. Here is a look at OC Bikefest 2022 as it was underway. The inlet opens later in the afternoon while the vendor village was in full swing before noon. We took a tour of the inlet area while sound checks were going on on the main stage. People were on the secondary stage as well, making sure that everything was ready for the throngs of bikers who will flow off the boardwalk and into the inlet area to enjoy OC Bikefest 2022 with the vendors, food, alcohol (where sales benefit local non-profits), and the live music. For more information, click here.
In the meantime, enjoy the OC Bikefest images from Thursday, September 15, 2022. Some in 360º, some in the closed inlet area, some in the vendor village at the Convention Center, and some just on the streets. Let it roar!
Main stage in 360º during sound checks before the gates opened
And the secondary stage getting ready to entertain…
Lots to see at the vendor village in front of the Ocean City Convention Center
The Twisted Tea picnic area on the beach.
And of course, there are the bars – each of which is run by one of the non-profit partners which is working with OC BikeFest 2022. You can read more here.
You can certainly hear the music from the beach!
You enter OC BikeFest 2022 from the boardwalk which means you are REALLY close to all the businesses there, like Thrasers!
There’s more to Ocean City during Bikefest than just bikes. Here is Somerset Plaza
OC Bikefest is already roaring in Ocean City and Delmarva has geared up too with Delmarva Bike Week centered in Salisbury, MD. This is an event that runs from Wednesday, September 11 through Sunday, September 15. There are events and activities at all of these locations throughout the week. Here are some of your questions answered along with links to find out more.
What are the Primary Locations for the Bikefest and Bike Week Activities?
10:00 AM – 7:00 PM: Vendors, Food and Beverages, And More…
Always FREE Bike Parking
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Motorcycle Demos – Indian Demos/Sales
12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM: Stunt Team Presented by Monster Energy
Twisted Tea Stage 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM: Jeremiah James
3:00 Pm to 6:00 PM: Blistur
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2024
9:00 AM – 7:00 PM: Vendors, Food and Beverages, And More…
Always FREE Bike Parking
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Motorcycle Demos – Indian Demos/Sales
10:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:30 PM: Stunt Team Presented by Monster Energy
Twisted Tea Stage 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM: Blistur
1:30 PM to 3:30 PM: Jasmine Cain
4:00 Pm to 6:00 PM: Jeremiah James
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2024
9:00 AM – 7:00 PM: Vendors, Food and Beverages, And More…
Always FREE Bike Parking
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Motorcycle Demos – Indian Demos/Sales
10:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:30 PM: Stunt Team Presented by Monster Energy
Twisted Tea Stage 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM: Jeremiah James
1:30 PM to 3:30 PM: Blistur
4:00 PM to 6:00 PM: Jasmine Cain
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2024
9:00 AM – 7:00 PM: Vendors, Food and Beverages, And More…
Always FREE Bike Parking
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Motorcycle Demos – Indian Demos/Sales
10:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 3:30 PM: Stunt Team Presented by Monster Energy
Twisted Tea Stage 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM: Blistur
1:30 PM to 3:30 PM: Jasmine Cain
4:00 Pm to 6:00 PM: Jeremiah James
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2024
9:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Vendors, Food and Beverages, And More…
Always FREE Bike Parking
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Motorcycle Demos – Indian Demos/Sales
Twisted Tea Stage 10:30 AM: Cruisin’ the Coast Awards
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Blistur
General FAQs for OC Bikefest
Should cash be brought to purchase items or will debit and credit be accepted?
Depends on the vendor, there will be ATMs on site. All bars will be cash only.
What are the transportation and parking in and around OC Bike Fest?
Motorcycle parking only at the inlet.
Free use of the city bus with the 3 day event pass
Are personal bags allowed to be brought in?
Purses and bags allowed, but they will be checked at main gate.
Is this an age restricted event?
There is no age restriction. This is a family friendly event.
Are pets allowed?
No pets allowed
Is it handicap accessible?
Yes, handicap parking will be marked.
Are you allowed to bring your own chair?
No chairs allowed. Picnic tables onsite for seating.
Are restrooms available at the event?
Yes, ample.
Portolets, handicap portolets, and handwashing stations all on site at the inlet.
Convention center – all restrooms are inside.
If bad weather causes cancellation or delay, how will the information sent out? Is there anywhere to check on updates?
Please check ocbikefest.com and their social media for last-minute updates.
Official Event Merchandise available to purchase!
Get Your Free Official Rally Pin
(While supplies last)
Food & Drink FAQs:
What kind of food vendors can be expected?
BBQ, Burgers, Coffee, Crab Cakes, Beef Jerkey, Ice cream, and more! Also many of the restaurants on the Boardwalk will be open.
Will alcohol be sold? Will a wristband or stamp be given if sold?
Beer, wine, and spirits are sold onsite at the inlet with an ID checked and wristband only
Convention center and stadium are beer and wine sales only
Is the alcohol served at the event allowed on the boardwalk or beach?
You can not leave the gated inlet area with alcohol purchased within the gated area.
Bikefest Vendor FAQs:
How many crafters and artists will be attending?
68 vendors are exhibiting at the Convention Center.
Who is exhibiting at the Convention Center?
929 Customs
Addiction Leather
All-Bout Customz
Bayer
Biker Nation
Biker Brand
Ciro
Cricket Center
Coors Light
Custom Engraving
Cycle Solutions
Dan Kite Pin Striping
Fairing Exchange
Final Touch
Flying Pig Eyewear
Full Throttle Energy
Fury Customz
Halifax Urban Ministries
Heated 4 U
Hillbilly Jerky
Hog Wash
Icicles Eyewear
Inearz
Inferno USA
Iron Braid
Jack Daniels
Jill’s Concealed Shack
Just a Little Bling
Kat Daddy Cigars
Khrome Werks
Killer Jewelry
KST Enterprises
Lucky Kustoms LED
Make My Day Jewelry
Market Delights
Master Lugo
Mike’s Magnetics
Miller Lite
Monster Brite
Monster Energy
Monte Roach Pinstriping
Motorcycle Rally USA
Mustang Seats
Native Feather
Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce
Patch World
PPI
Progressive Insurance
Pull No Punches
RC Components
RickRak
Rommel Harley-Davidson
Roast Coffee
Sanity Jewelry
Sickboy
Sinister Sound
Sound Art of NE
Soundz Inc.
Speeds Performance Plus
Stark & Stark
Step-N-Glitz
Tab Performance
Tennessee Leather
Teo Patches
TNR (Hi-Down)
Twister Tea
US Kennels
X-treme Cycles
Summer may be winding down, but Ocean City is gearing up for a vibrant fall season packed with exciting events! Please note that the Inlet Parking Lot will be closed for public parking from September 10th to October 13th to accommodate these festivities.
Event Schedule:
OC BikeFest: September 11-15 (setup begins September 10). Limited motorcycle-only parking available during the event. Learn more at https://www.oceancity.com/bike-week/.
Don’t let parking woes dampen your fun! Plenty of municipal and street parking options are available. Check out the OceanCity.com’s website for a comprehensive parking guide: https://www.oceancity.com/parking/
Traffic Advisory
Expect increased traffic, especially during Oceans Calling. Plan your trips accordingly, allowing extra time for travel and parking. Consider the convenient Ocean City Beach Bus as an alternative to driving and parking downtown.
Key Points to Remember
Inlet Lot closed to public parking September 10 – October 13.
Lot reopens after 4:30 pm on October 13.
Limited motorcycle parking during OC BikeFest.
Endless Summer Cruisin’ allows public parking after 5 pm daily.
Explore alternative parking options and consider the Beach Bus.
Ocean City’s fall events promise fun for everyone. Plan ahead, enjoy the festivities, and make the most of your visit!
Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore, consisting of Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties, has a heritage that is linked by geography, economy, history, and culture. From the Chesapeake Bay to the Atlantic Ocean, residents are united by their appreciation for heritage and traditions born from centuries of working the land and water. Human settlement in the region dates back at least 12,000 years, long before Captain John Smith explored the peninsula in 1608. Our intricate heritage and culture can be difficult to visualize. No need to fret though, as the Beach to Bay Heritage Area(BBHA) has created a StoryMap to help. Story Mapping is a technique that uses GIS technology to visualize content or stories, allowing past and present to be visualized in an interactive map. The result? A more holistic view of the BBHA and a handy tool to navigate our natural and historical assets.
Water Trails & Access Points
Today, the Lower Eastern Shore remains mostly rural, and it is this rural, natural landscape that has shaped our culture. The various waterways that cut across the landscape are one of our most prominent features that continue to define our lifestyle whether through fishing or hunting waterfowl. These waterways are also perfect for traveling on with canoes, kayaks, boats, and more! Don’t know where to start? The BBHA Story Map points out where you can dip your toes in our waters. The Water Access map lays out water access points like boat ramps and docks as well as water trails like the Pocomoke River Water Trail. Clicking on the trails and access point reveals more information such as difficulty level, parking availability, and the type of trail. Also included on the map are various outfitters where you can rent recreational water vessels for your visit.
Land Trails
If you prefer to stay dry and on land, the Land Trails map identifies trail heads, walking trails, and bike routes for visitors to explore. These trails offer scenic views of our forests, wetlands, beaches, and more. Like the Water Access map, this interactive map displays helpful information such as the trail length and the type of walking or biking surface. Not only are these trails a refreshing way to experience nature, but they are great ways to learn about our history too! Pemberton Historical Park in Salisbury is a 262-acre park surrounding historic Pemberton Hall and includes 4.5 miles of nature trails. Come learn about the area’s wildlife and the 18th century home which once sat at the center of a plantation.
Museums, Historic Sites, and Historical Markers Mapped Out
Speaking of history, the BBHA has plenty to share through its StoryMap. From pre-history to today, there is plenty to discover. Explore indigenous history, colonial settlements, and 19th century American life by visiting museums in the BBHA. Museums like the Burgess Rural Living Center, the Edward H. Nabb Research Center, and FurnaceTown givea glimpse into what daily life and work was likeon the Shore.All these museums and more have been mapped out for your convenience. If you have the Beach to Bay Heritage Area Museum Passport, this map is helpful with collecting those stamps!
Black history on the shore is long and complex. Some of the earliest Africans to arrive in the area during British colonization arrived as slaves in 1619 on The White Lion, an English privateer ship, after it intercepted a Portuguese slave ship in the Gulf of Mexico. After landing at Point Comfort in Virginia, the African captives aboard were sold to planters, contributing to the establishment of a system of chattel slavery in the United States. Generations of African Americans found themselves victims to this system, but there were those who were either born free, were manumitted,or escaped bondage. Their stories, achievements, and courage in the face of adversity have left their mark on our history. Sites and interpretive signs that highlight our Black heritage have been mapped out in the Faith and Freedom self-guided driving tour.
Arts & Culture on the Shore
Apart from our nature and history, the BBHA Story Map also shines a spotlight on the cultural centers of today’s Eastern Shore. Arts and Entertainment (A&E) Districts, many of which are in historic downtowns, offer unique shopping and food experiences, foster art, and attract tourists from across the country (and even the world). These A&E districts host events year-round, such as 3rd Friday in Salisbury or the countless events hosted by Berlin, which provide environments for the community to gather to mingle, shop, eat, dance, and more!
Explore the Shore
The vast nature to explore, history to uncover, and cultural centers to visit makes it easy to be overwhelmed with information and activities.This is where the Beach to Bay Heritage Area StoryMap truly shines. Withits maps breaking apart the various sites, trails, districts, and more, this visual and interactive guide is the perfect tool to use when planning your visit to the area or for those curious about our story on the Eastern Shore. Check out the full StoryMap at https://arcg.is/GjuKL0
Let’s look at ten of the pictures taken in Ocean City, Maryland over the past week between August 31st to September 6th. This week started with Labor Day weekend which historically has been the end of the summer season in Ocean City. In traditional tourist times Ocean City’s tourist season ran from Memorial Day to Labor Day. However, after Labor Day, many believe it’s the best time to visit Ocean City with less crowds, good weather, and the beginning of off-season pricing in both hotels and restaurants, with the exception of large event weekends. But let’s now look at ten select pictures for this first week of September.
Labor Day weekend
A good number of people and families visited Ocean City this past weekend to close out the traditional summer tourist season. The visitation counts may have been slightly down given the always popular OC Air Show was held the last week of August this year rather than its normal June dates. Mild temperatures and sunny conditions for the most part. However, the story of most of the summer season remained; wind. And during this past week rip currents, too.
After Labor Day
However, after this holiday weekend we begin to see the closing of some of Ocean City businesses and activities such as the rides at Trimper Rides in the south end of the Town. But remember that Trimpers continue to still keep open their boardwalk games. While some of the summer weekly events like Sundaes in the Park, Sunset Park Party Night concerts, and OC Beach Dance Party come to an end, large weekend events start in September and continue into the Fall season. Ocean City was also fortunate to have the Magellan replica ship, Nao Trinidad visit and dock at Bayside Park at 3rd Street for ten weeks. It departed Ocean City on September 1st.
Sunrise in Ocean City
There’s nothing better than starting your Ocean City day with a great sunrise; and we had that throughout our ten mile of beach fronts. Pick you favorite spot and photo away. Some of the best pictures are when clouds are present, too!
Sunsets in Ocean City
But in good Ocean City tradition, great sunsets remain continue. Throughout the resort one can find opportunities for beautiful sunset pictures. And Ocean City memories!
Horses on patrol
A fan favorite found in Ocean City is the mounted patrol of the Ocean City Police Department. These horses and their accompanying officers provide an extra sense of security and interest from visitors and residents alike.
Ocean City Boardwalk
Of special note with the passing of Labor Day is the removal of bicycle restrictions on the boardwalk. Summer restrictions only permit bike riding until noontime.
Coming up in September
Keep on eye on Oceancity.com Facebook, Instagram, and website for more events and pictures coming your way in the next few weeks and month. Wine Fest: Wine on the Beach is coming on September 6th and 7th, OC Bike Week is coming September 11th to 15th, Shorecraft Beer Fest on September 21st, SunFest Kite Festival on September 19th to 22nd, and Oceans Calling on September 27th to 29th. Its going to be a busy and fun coming month in Ocean City Md.
Ocean City, MD (September 6, 2024) – Today marks a momentous occasion for Ocean City as the newly restored former Bank of Ocean City Building opens its doors as the Museum of Ocean City. Located at 217 S. Baltimore Ave, this historic landmark, once known as LOT 48 and The McGregor Building, has been transformed into a vibrant cultural hub that will showcase the rich history of our much loved beach town.
A Journey Through Time
The Museum of Ocean City invites visitors to step back in time and explore the building’s fascinating past. From its origins as a grocery store in 1911 to its role as the first bank in Ocean City from 1916 to 2019, the building has witnessed the town’s evolution firsthand. A dedicated exhibit will chronicle this history, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped Ocean City.
Exhibits and Programs
While the full exhibit installment is slated for the new year, visitors can currently enjoy an exhibit on the building’s history. Future exhibits will delve deeper into the town’s heritage, exploring topics such as:
Indigenous Peoples and Native Wildlife
The Evolution of Hotels and Restaurants
Historic People and Places of Downtown Ocean City
The museum will also host a variety of engaging programs, including book signings with local authors, preservation workshops, and other events that celebrate Ocean City’s cultural and natural history.
Research and Accessibility
The museum’s second floor serves as a research and artifact storage space, housing a vast collection of historical records, photographs, and postcards. Starting in May 2025, this space will be open to the public by appointment, offering a valuable resource for those interested in delving deeper into Ocean City’s past.
Read how one long time visitor to Ocean City discovered his childhood vacation spot with the help from staff at the Ocean City Life Saving Station Museum here.
The first floor of the Museum (the exhibit hall) is fully handicap accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the exhibits and programs.
Visiting the Museum
The Museum of Ocean City is currently open on Mondays and Tuesdays from 10am to 1:30pm. From November – April, the museum will be open Saturday & Sunday from 10am – 1:30pm. Admission is by donation only.
A Community Effort
The restoration of the Bank of Ocean City Building and the establishment of the Museum of Ocean City is a testament to the dedication and generosity of the Ocean City Museum Society, a 501c3 Nonprofit organization. Through grant funding and fundraising efforts, the Society has made this vision a reality. The Town of Ocean City owns the building and maintains the exterior.
Join the Celebration!
The Museum of Ocean City is a treasure trove of local history and culture. Residents and visitors alike are invited to explore its exhibits, participate in its programs, and discover the stories that make Ocean City so special.
The Ocean City Museum Society is a 501c3 Nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history and culture of Ocean City, Maryland. The Society funds all exhibits, artifacts, events, and programs at the Museum of Ocean City.
It’s a little stormy in Ocean City today, with a high risk of rip currents and powerful waves breaking 3 to 5 ft. While we can’t always promise blue skies and a calm ocean, we can promise there’s always something to watch here in Ocean City, and a rough surf can mean quite spectacular sights, and great photo ops for visitors, so long as we all keep our feet firmly on the ground! Here’s a few photos we took today on the beach in Ocean City Md.
The Beach to Bay Heritage Area (BBHA) has a rich and complex history, thankfully, the area is chock full of museums to help tell the many aspects of our story. In addition, the BBHA has created a Museum Passport to incentivize visitors to explore our local museums while also encouraging cross-promotion between museums.
Heritage, History, & Museums
Museums are more than just places to get history lessons or to take children on field trips; they are an excellent way to learn about and experience our heritage and culture. From the more traditional museum experience to an interactive experience with our natural resources, our museums have much to offer.
Heritage is about the people and places of a region. While all the area’s museums share pieces of our heritage, some place a special emphasis on what the BBHA likes to call “FolkWays.” FolkWays tell the story of our people – where they lived, how they lived, their stories, and their homes. The Burgess Rural Living Center is a prime example of a FolkWay museum. Here visitors can see what Somerset County living was like in the late 19th century all the way up to the 1930s. Exhibits explore the day-to-day routine of the region’s inhabitants from household chores like laundry to farming.
Further north in the village of Allen, there is the Allen Historical Society Museum. Situated in the 1883 Huffington-Pollitt House, the museum aims to preserve and share the history of the historic village. Much like the Burgess Center, exhibits showcase early village life through artifacts, including a working 1915 Edison Diamond Disc Phonograph. The Allen Museum also displays local Black and Native American history, containing pieces on Thomas E. Polk Sr, a local Buffalo Soldier, and the Pocomoke Indian Nation. That brings us to another facet of our deep history.
European colonial history tends to take center stage when examining our past, and while it is an important element of American history, that is only part of our story. Our extensive history spans thousands of years, pre-dating Captain John Smith’s exploration of the peninsula. Evidence suggests that Native Americans inhabited the region at least 12,000 years ago! Thousands of years of history can be difficult to cover, but the Delmarva Discovery Museum in Pocomoke has an exhibit doing just that. Their Native American exhibit delves into the peninsula’s early history with an arrowhead collection, wigwam reconstruction, canoes, and more. Likewise, the Rackliffe House in Berlin also helps demonstrate indigenous history on the coast, explaining how Native Americans lived at the time of European contact through first-hand accounts and a look into the Assateague group of Native Americans.
On top of our indigenous history, the Eastern Shore has plenty of Black history to share as well. Some of the earliest Africans to arrive in the area during British colonization arrived as slaves in 1619. The White Lion, an English privateer ship, landed at Point Comfort in Virginia after intercepting a Portuguese slave ship in the Gulf of Mexico. Their captives were sold as slaves to local planters. This interaction marks the beginning of the large-scale forced importation of enslaved Africans to America. While many Black Americans remained enslaved up until the abolition of slavery in 1865 with the ratification of the 13th Amendment, many were born free, gained freedom through manumission, or escaped from bondage. Our Black history is a history of courage, resilience, and achievement. The Germantown School Community Heritage Center is a living example of Black success in the Berlin area. Located in the Germantown community, it is a surviving Rosenwald School first built in 1922 through a community initiative to give their children an opportunity for an education. Over 5,000 Rosenwald Schools were built throughout the South to provide an education for Black children in the rural South and only about 500 remain standing.
Maybe you’re more of an outdoors person. If so, then there’s our natural history and environment to explore as well. Our nature has helped define our heritage and shaped our identities here on the Shore. Many museums recognize this and have incorporated nature into their operations. Furnace Town Historic Site, nestled between the Pocomoke State Forest and the Nassawango Creek Preserve capitalizes on its location by integrating nature trails into the old company town and iron furnace. Pemberton Historical Park also found a way to blend history and nature by turning what used to be part of an old 18th century plantation into a 262-acre park with 4.5 miles of trails to explore.
The museums within the Beach to Bay Heritage Area are an excellent way to get introduced to the region’s history and develop a deeper understanding of our heritage and culture. They find ways to share our history in a variety of formats that range from the traditional museum experience, to highlighting the less explored aspects of our history, or even incorporating nature to tell our story. While you’re out there, don’t forget about the BBHA Museum Passport Program! After visiting and getting your passport stamped by at least six sites, visitors will receive a free Beach to Bay Heritage Area baseball cap! So, pick up a passport at a museum and start experiencing our unique heritage.
If you missed National Peach Pie Day, you don’t have to worry. The Harrison Hotel Group has partnered with local Snow Hill bakery, Del Vecchio’s to celebrate peach pie all year long.
The Perfect Peach Pairing
Pie is one of those desserts that hits perfectly in the Autumn months, paired with a crisp cocktail or a hot cup of coffee. And there couldn’t be two better families to help with that perfect pairing- the local, historical peach farming family, The Harrison’s, and the baking experts of Snow Hill, The Del Vecchio’s.
Harrison Peach History
J. G Harrison, established Harrison Brother’s Nurseries in 1884 in Berlin, MD. Orlando Harrison and family maintained the business as it continued to be passed down from generation to generation. The Harrison Brothers Nurseries dominated the peach industry providing up to 500 jobs in the area depending on the season. Railway cars would run through Berlin picking up the peaches and deliver them to towns along the east coast. It’s been said that the now Route 113 between Berlin and Snow Hill was flanked by what looked like thousands of miles of peach trees.
Baked to Perfection
Route 113 leads us directly into Snow Hill, where we meet The Del Vecchio family, owners of Del Vecchio’s Bakery. Owner and proprietor, John Del Vecchio, graduated from the Culinary Institute of America with a pastry degree. He eventually moved to Ocean City, Maryland from Palm Beach, Florida, where John worked as a baking instructor. Del Vecchio worked as a pastry chef for The Olive Tree (formerly on 17th street) and eventually opened up his first bakery in Fenwick Island in 1997.
John taught baking courses at Wor-Wic Community College for 32 years for their Workforce Development program before retiring. And in his retirement came the newest bakery, which opened on August 3rd 2019 in downtown Snow Hill, which lead to a partnership with The Harrison Hotel Group.
Peach, Bumbleberry, Key Lime, and Chocolate Silk
Certain restaurants within the Harrison Hotel Group are now offering Del Vecchio’s delicious pies to pair with monthly specialty drinks such as a peach palmer or moon rita, a mixture of Casamigos tequila, triple sec, frozen peach mango puree with a sweet sugar rim. Marlin Moon, 32 Palm, The Coral Reef, and The Captain’s Table all offer the top flavor pies on their dessert menu for patrons to savor and enjoy. Harrison Hotel Group social media manager, Taylor Harman, votes key lime as her favorite. But it seems that the warmed peach pie drizzled with sweet caramel sauce and topped with cold vanilla ice cream has by far been a crowd favorite.
The long term goal is for all four restaurants to offer all four flavors of pie. Currently flavor options vary depending on location, but in all honesty- you can’t go wrong with either flavor! Or maybe just treat yourself and travel around to try all four.
Farmers Market
In addition the Harrison Hotel Group restaurants, Del Vecchio’s pies can also be spotted on Saturday mornings at The Ocean Pines Farmers Market throughout their market months. But you’d have to get their pretty early- they sell out pretty quickly.
Wine on the Beach, the beloved annual summer festival celebrating the regional industry, will be returning to the Ocean City Inlet September 6-7. As always, the festival will feature unique artisans and crafters, popular Delmarva food specialties and flip flop favorites performing on the oceanfront stage.
What to Expect
2024 sees the return of St. Michael’s Winery after an absence of several years. The Eastern Shore vineyard is a particular favorite due to the many varieties they offer.
Broken Spoke, from Earleville Maryland, who will be dispensing samples from their vintage horse drawn cart.
Picnicking in the sand, with bottles of wines and a group of friends and family, has always been a major attraction of this festival. Listening to music, dancing and singing are two natural extensions of the merriment.
This year, perennial favorites Bird Dog and the Road Kings will bring back their rockabilly rolling to the beach festival both days. They will be followed Friday by misspent youth, a popular party rock band that energizes docks and piers throughout Maryland and the mid-Atlantic. Saturday, Salisbury classic rock band Tranzfusion will provide the stage entertainment after Bird Dog.
Dress Up and Party!
First time Wine on the Beach guests quickly pick up on their fellow revelers, who are frequently in coordinated outfits, even costumes. They travel in clusters, sometimes as large as twenty. They are all ages (yes, non-drinking children are welcome with adults) and all focused. They carry beach towels, pull carts and pack coolers for the beach.
As these good times have evolved, Wine of the Beach has become an annual reunion or special occasion for numerous groups. You can expect to see at least one bachelorette procession of bridesmaids, families with matching t-shirts, ladies of a certain age in outrageous hats and pink tutus and a girlfriends weekend in progress. Some frat boys and long lost sorority sisters, and friends and neighbors who get together for final weekend at the beach.
Will Call and Purchase
The beach atmosphere features picnic tables, benches and chairs, clustered around the stage and vendor areas. Guests are welcome to bring their own umbrellas, chairs, tables and wagons.
As before, wine purchases may be stored in Will-Call and picked up at nearby exit station.
” Wine on the Beach is fun and educational for wine-loving couples or individuals, ” said Chris Nokes, festival coordinator for over 29 years. “We’ve found the comradery enjoyed by our groups to be quite rewarding. Having unlimited samples available, they share notes, identify favorites, buy bottles to enjoy on the beach and cases to take home for future festivities.”
Ms. Nokes continued, “We see some of the same groups year after year. They like to dance.”Live entertainment will run both days, so there will be plenty of opportunities to dance and sing. “It wouldn’t be Wine of the Beach without it,” noted Ms. Nokes .
“We are delighted with our music lineup for this year’s Wine on the Beach,” Ms Nokes added. “We offer an array of music styles and tastes, with something for everyone to enjoy as they picnic on the beach.”
For further information about Wine of the Beach, Contact Chris Nokes at (410) 280-3306. Visit website at www.winefest.com
Let’s look at ten of the pictures taken in Ocean City, Maryland over the past week between August 24th and August 30th. This past week saw two major events (OC Air Show and https://oceancityjeepfest.com) which provided many picture opportunities. But for the sake of brevity, we are including only a few pictures in this summary. So, here’s some of our favorite pictures for our OC Week in Review.
OC Air Show 2024
What a great air showing held this past week that featured, for the first time to Ocean City, the Italian Frecce Tricolori fighters! This year’s Air Show occurred on August 24th and 25th. There was the F-22 Raptor Demo Team, Growlers, C-17 Globemaster III, A=10 Thunderbolt and more. This was the first time the Ocean City Air Show was held in August. This Air Show will return to its regular June time slot in 2025 and will feature the Blue Angels!
OC Jeep Fest
Partially overlapping with the OC Air Show this year was the 2024 Ocean City Jeep Fest. This event continues to grow and is one of the biggest Jeep events in the Mid-Atlantic region. It is centered with activities, vendors and live entertainment, at the Ocean City Convention Center at 40th Street. During the morning hours of this four-day event, OC Jeep Fest also sponsored its popular Jeep Crawl which allows participants to drive their jeeps from the Ocean City inlet parking lot north to 30th Street. The event also provided a beach driving obstacle course for its participants.
Ocean City inlet picture
Highlighting the 91st anniversary of this important natural event that created the inlet, connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the bays in August 1933. This event had major affects on Ocean City and Assateague Island.
Sunrise in Ocean City
It’s so easy to find excellent spots for a sunrise picture. Ocean City has the best of these! This week’s sunrise picture was taken near 24th Street. And we’ll have awesome sunset pictures coming up too in future weekly review pictures.
Boardwalk interest
Here’s Mackie Jenkins displaying his Noah Ark display on the OC Boardwalk adjacent to the Boardwalk Information Cottage at Caroline Street. Mackie of Bethlehem Productions of Virginia spent two years building this Ark replica. Check it out!
Ocean City Boardwalk
Often Oceancity.com will provide pictures of the popular attraction on the Boardwalk, but this week we ended our week with a wet morning and a dedicated runner on the boards.
Sunset Park music events
This past Thursday, August 29th ended the free music concert series at Sunset Park for 2024 on a high note with the local jam band, The Dunehounds performing. Always a popular event, these free concerts highlight great music by local and regional artists. Look for next year’s music schedule to be available in spring of 2025. These concerts are held on Thursdays in July and August. These free concerts are sponsored by Ocean City Development Corporation and the Town of Ocean City.
Coming up in September
Keep on eye on Oceancity.com Facebook, Instagram, and website for more events and pictures coming your way in the next few weeks and month. Wine Fest: Wine on the Beach is coming on September 6th and 7th, OC Bike Week is coming September 11th to 15th, Shorecraft Beer Fest on September 21st, SunFest Kite Festival on September 19th to 22nd, and Oceans Calling on September 27th to 29th. Its going to be a busy and fun coming month in Ocean City.
OCEAN CITY, MD — August 23, 2024 — The Art League of Ocean City announces tickets are now on sale for their annual “pARTy of the Year” to be held on Oct. 9, 2024, 6-9 p.m. at the Embers Restaurant at District 24 in Ocean City.
The theme for 2024 is “Wonderland,” and the party will feature Alice in Wonderland-inspired décor and an evening full of surprises. Tickets are $150 and available online at OCart.org, by calling 410-524-9433, or at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St. bayside.
Proceeds from the event support the many outreach and community programs of the Art League, a 501c3 nonprofit organization.
“What’s down the rabbit hole?” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, asked. “Follow the White Rabbit and don’t be late! You’ll party with the Queen of Hearts and a very curious cast of characters for an evening filled with art, fun, friends, and food, all with a gorgeous bayfront view. A limited number of tickets are available, so please reserve early.”
The evening also includes Wonderland characters brought to life by the Lower Shore Performing Arts Company, special drinks at the open bar, an array of heavy hors d’oeuvres including a raw bar, sushi and ceviche, desserts from Candy Kitchen, and music and dancing with the Hot Sauce Band.
Guests have the opportunity to bid on unique auction items including a raffle where the winner receives $5,000 cash or a travel voucher sponsored by Oasis Travel.
“Our party is the one everyone talks about every year,” Thaler continued, “and this year will be no exception. Your support allows the Art League to keep the doors of the Ocean City Center for the Arts open seven days a week and free to all, and to reach out into the community with enriching programs.”
Corporate and personal sponsorships are still available for the party. “This is a golden opportunity to show your support for the arts and nonprofit organizations in our community,” Jessica Bauer, development director of the Art League, said. “The Art League has many levels of sponsorships available, with wonderful perks like private tables, VIP benefits, raffle tickets, and so much more.”
The Art League of Ocean City isa non-profit 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.