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!
Welcome to Winterfest of LightsScooters available for rentBuy a hot chocolate before or after your walkFlying Fish!Path through the lightsPractice your winter surfing skillsPlenty of places to sit down through out the parkWhat a place for a walk!ReflectionsThousands of sparkling, twinkling, colorful lightsEven the tress got in on the fun this yearQuite the view!Time for a rest?Many of our favorite lights are still here this yearReflections on the waterA Winter WonderlandThe spectacular Christmas TreeSo many lights!AwwHappy Holidays!
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.
The Rt 50 bridge will be fully closed to all traffic beginning January 20 at 7:00 a.m.
The planned reopening is February 3 at 12:00 a.m. The bridge is to closed to addressing the mechanical systems, including the drawbridge interlocks at the nose and restoring structural capacity. During the closure, the bridge will be completely impassable to everyone: no vehicles, no pedestrians, no bicycles or scooters and no fishing from the bridge.
Marine closure window is January 6 – March 20 (if needed; could reopen earlier).
Work on the mechanical systems and bearings will make the main channel impassable to marine traffic. The main channel will be closed to all vessel traffic for up to 75 days or less.
The State Highway Administration will be temporarily closing the US 50 Bridge (Harry W. Kelley Memorial Bridge) next month to complete important maintenance work.
The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) will begin rehabilitation work on the US 50 (Ocean Gateway)/Harry W. Kelley Memorial Bridge over the Sinepuxent Bay in Ocean City on Monday, January 5.
Motorists should expect intermittent daytime single-lane closures from January 5 through January 20. A full bridge closure with a signed detour will be in effect from January 20 through February 3. After the full closure, single-lane closures will resume and remain in place until the project is completed, which is anticipated by March 20, weather permitting. In addition, the navigation channel beneath the bridge will be closed to marine traffic beginning January 5 and will remain closed for the duration of the project.
During the closure, crews will replace the bridge’s nose lock assembly and retrofit the floor beam. These repairs require the draw spans to remain in the upright position throughout the work. The project is designed to extend the service life of the 84-year-old bridge.
While the bridge is closed, motorists will follow a signed detour using US 113 (Worcester Highway), MD 90 (Ocean City Expressway), and MD 528 (Coastal Highway). The State Highway Administration’s contractor, Covington Machine and Welding of Annapolis, will install concrete barriers, barrels, and cones to guide traffic safely along the detour route. Arrow panels and variable message signs will be placed in advance to notify drivers of closures and changing traffic patterns.
The State Highway Administration appreciates the public’s patience during construction as improvements are made to Maryland’s transportation infrastructure. Drivers are reminded to remain alert, obey reduced speed limits, and watch for changing traffic conditions. Slow down and move over in work zones—it’s the law.
For updates, major project listings, and travel information, visit roads.maryland.gov.
OCEAN CITY, MD — Jan. 13, 2026 — The Art League of Ocean City invites the public to a free evening of readings and art from the 13th annual “Shared Visions” exhibit on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026 from 6-8 p.m. at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St. bayside. Guests will enjoy complimentary refreshments.
“Shared Visions” is a collaboration of the literary word and visual art. The exhibition features local writers and artist members of the Art League. The writers went first, submitting written pieces reviewed by a panel that included industry professionals as well as local writers. Once the written submissions were posted, the artists selected a poem or short prose to use as inspiration for their artwork. Their creations include painting, photography, fiber art, and mixed media, currently displayed alongside the writings that inspired them.
On Jan. 20 from 6-8 p.m., the writers will read their poetry and prose that inspired the artwork during the free event. The writers who will be reading their work include Megan Carney, Art Gutkin, Sarah Gordon, Ellen Krawczak, Gwen Lehman, Joan Floyd, and Don Lehman.
“This is the amazing 13th year for our annual Shared Visions event, celebrating both the visual and the written arts,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, said. “The event underscores the Art League’s commitment to fostering collaboration across artistic disciplines and building meaningful connections within the creative community.”
The Ocean City Center for the Arts at 502 94th St. is open daily with free admission. More information is available at OCart.org or by calling 410-524-9433.
The Art League of Ocean City is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing the visual arts to the community through education, exhibits, scholarship, programs and community art projects. Funding for this event is in part provided by the Maryland State Arts Council and the National Endowment of the Arts, organizations dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive.
Ocean City, MD — Looking for the most fun winter party in Ocean City? You’ve found it. Love on Tap 2026 by Shore Craft Beer is back at Seacrets, Jamaica USA on Saturday, February 21, 2026, and it’s shaping up to be the biggest craft beverage party of the season. Even better? Make it a winter getaway — book your hotel through hotels.oceancity.com and you’ll get $10 OFF each General Admission or VIP ticket. (Yes — $10 off per ticket, not per order.) Tickets are available now at ShoreCraftBeerFest.com, and organizers say this is one of the best ways to gift (or treat yourself to) an unforgettable winter weekend in Ocean City.
Why Love on Tap is the Winter Party Everyone Talks About
Love on Tap 2026 delivers three full hours of unlimited tastings from dozens of local and regional breweries and distilleries — plus hard seltzers, RTD cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. The first 1000 attendees through the door get a commemorative pint glass to take home.
VIP ticket holders get early entry, extended tasting time, and a special VIP t-shirt — but no matter which ticket you choose, the energy is always high, the music is always live, and Seacrets always brings the party.
Seacrets, Jamaica USA is a must-see in Ocean City — and this festival is one of the most exciting reasons to visit during the winter season.
“Seacrets is excited to welcome festival-goers back for Love on Tap,”said Bailey Phillips, Marketing Director at Seacrets.“Morley Hall will be rocking with Elephants Dancing, and our Main Bar will host an additional band to keep the energy high throughout the afternoon. It’s one of the best winter events in Ocean City, and we’re proud to be part of it.”
It’s always a party at Seacrets — any time of year.
Make It a Weekend Getaway — Book Your Stay & Save $10 Per Ticket
Love on Tap takes place during one of the most affordable and relaxed times of year in Ocean City, making it the perfect excuse for a winter escape. Travelers can book rooms at hotels.oceancity.com, where they’ll find a wide selection of Ocean City hotels, many offering winter rates and local perks. And here’s the best part: when you book your stay through hotels.oceancity.com, you’ll receive a coupon emailed to you that saves $10 off each GA or VIP ticket.
“A discounted festival ticket paired with a hotel stay makes an exceptional holiday gift,” said Ann Hillyer of Shore Craft Beer. “It’s an entire weekend of relaxation, entertainment, and local craft beverages with your friends or family. Winter in Ocean City has its own charm — and Love on Tap gives people a great reason to come enjoy it.”
A lot of the brewery reps will be there to talk to!
Featured cocktail with Seacrets Distilling spirit
Featured Mocktail
Hard tea
Hard Seltzer
and if you book a room here: You can get this ticket for ONLY $55. General Admission Ticket is only $30 with a hotel room booking FOR THREE HOURS OF FUN!
A WEEK IN REVIEW OF OCEAN CITY PICTURES – Week 52 of 2025 and Week 1 of 2026
Light snow on beach
Let’s look at some pictures from the last week of 2025 and the first week of 2026 in Ocean City.
We are now in the cold days of winter with more to come but surprising these past few days have been sunny and warmer. Ocean City did receive a light coat of snow on the last day of December 2025. Just a note to self of what we should be getting as we get close to February.
Sunrises in Ocean City
Let’s start off this new year with some sunrise pictures on the Ocean City beach.
sunrise on clear morningBeach sunrise
Ocean City Boardwalk
Quiet walks, but just the way many residents and visitors like it in Ocean City.
Light frost on BoardwalkBoardwalk on a cold morning
Plenty of holiday lights around Ocean City these past few weeks but most are now taken down. But here’s two displays you would have seen upon driving through the downtown area.
Marlin sculpture with backdrop of holiday lightsholiday display at downtown entrance
Boardwalk archway with lights
Sunsets
Always spectacular on our bayside this time of year.
Sunset from OC Convention CenterSunset looking towards Assateague
You probably snap hundreds of photos of your kids, family, and friends during your annual Ocean City Md vacation—many of them on the beach or along the Boardwalk. But there are a few truly iconic spots that are must-have photo ops in Ocean City. How many of them have you checked off with a picture?
The dinosaur bones on the beach at 2nd Street. Photo by Nicole M CarisServing up your own French fries. Photo by Rose TianiRealizing you’ve had more than enough fries and ice cream this vacation. Photo by Cheri Boccuti The Dancing Dolphins at the Rt 90 BridgeIf Telescope Pictures don’t catch you on the beach, you can catch them on the Boardwalk at 4th Street.The anchor at the Ocean City Life Saving Station Museum. Photo by Katie Walk The dinosaur eggs on the beach at 2nd St. Photo by Char Hayden The “Welcome to Ocean City” tram stop on the BoardwalkThe big tire at Ripley’sThe Inlet IndianThe Crab at Hooper’s and Sneaky Pete’s144th Street Transit CenterMeet you under the clock on the BoardwalkThe Boardwalk ArchThe big chair at Northside ParkThe big chair on the beachThe end of the Boardwalk, north endThe end of the Boardwalk, south endOn the Pier looking towards the BoardwalkOn the Pier, looking out to the OceanCatching an early morning sunrise. Photo by Lauren Briggs EbersbergerView with a sunset background Photo by Alisha Eid.Jumping the waves. Photo by Kim Martin-PeletskyCan’t have a bad picture when the kites are in the background! Photo by Ashley PasquithGathering under the pier. Photo by Kirk-Rachel Hayes Jr. Take a picture in front of one of Ocean City’s murals. Photo by Christina Yingling
No matter what else you do on vacation in Ocean City, MD, you’ll almost certainly take hundreds of photos. But choose a few favorite iconic spots and recreate the same picture every time you visit—then watch your kids, and yourself, grow and change over the years.
OCEAN CITY, MD — Jan. 5, 2026 — Early bird passes are now on sale for the 10th Annual Ocean City Film Festival, a production of the Art League of Ocean City, coming to resort theaters and venues Mar. 5-8, 2026. The Town of Ocean City is a major sponsor for the festival.
Over four days, the festival will screen more than 100 independent films, both locally-made and from around the world, including short films and feature-length movies. Screenings will be held at venues across Ocean City and West Ocean City, alongside filmmaker Q&As, special events, and opening and closing parties throughout the festival.
Discounted Tier One ticket pricing is available until Feb. 15, 2026 and includes $125 for a four-day pass and $35 for a one-day pass. Prices will increase on Feb. 16 to Tier Two pricing that includes $145 for a four-day pass and $40 for a one-day pass. Tickets are available for purchase at OCMDFilmFestival.com.
“Buy early and save,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, said. “We are so excited to be celebrating our 10thbig season that we’re offering special early bird rates for our loyal fans and newcomers. We hope you’ll join us for a very special year of programming.”
Comedy icon Patton Oswalt headlines this year’s festival, performing live at the Ocean City Performing Arts Center on Thursday, March 5 at 7:00 p.m. with his new Effervescent show. Tickets for the Oswalt performance are sold separately.
The Film Festival is an annual production of the nonprofit Art League of Ocean City. The films have not been rated, and some feature adult content. Viewer discretion is advised.
More information and tickets are available at OCMDFilmFestival.com, by calling 410-524-9433, and on the free Art League of Ocean City app.
The Art League of Ocean City is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing the visual arts to the community through education, exhibits, scholarship, programs and community art projects.
Judy Grim – First time at the beach for my girl Sierra! When were there in October and she loved it!
Guide to Ocean City with Dogs
Ocean City is one of those places where you can bring your whole family with you — not just the human members, but the furry, four-legged ones, too. In the off-season, the beach and boardwalk are open to leashed pets, and in the spring and summer months, area hotels and restaurants, especially those with outdoor seating areas, are more than accommodating to your animal friends. Here’s where you can sleep, eat, shop, and play with your pets in Ocean City.
Photo by Kristie Cameron -Maryjanes first trip to the beach!
Pet-friendly lodging
Many hotels charge an additional fee for pet lodging; Call ahead for details and to ensure the availability of pet-designated rooms.
Featured pet-friendly hotels:
Marley guards the benches.
Hyatt Place Ocean City: This Boardwalk hotel at 16th Street is pet-friendly and perfect for early-morning boardwalk strolls with the dog. Two dogs may be allowed in a guestroom provided the combined weight of both dogs does not exceed 75 pounds; the pet fee encompasses this and pets exceeding are at the hotels discretion.
Home2 Suites: The Home2 Suites prides itself on its pet-friendliness, and they’re more than welcome to hang out in the Home2’s guest rooms while their owners soak up the sun. Thy offer special amenities and services to their furry guests.
Surf Villas: The midtown Surf Villas Hotel offers all the amenities of a resort hotel with the privacy and convenience of an apartment. The Villas boast that their pet-friendliness is inside and out, so your pets can rest inside and enjoy an outdoor area, too.
Howard Johnson Oceanfront Inn: Located near the end of the boardwalk on 24th Street, the Howard Johnson Oceanfront Inn is newly pet-friendly, and their rooms are newly renovated too (although you’ll probably appreciate that more than your dogs will). Read the hotel’s pet policy here.
Days Inn Oceanfront: Like the Howard Johnson, the Days Inn on 23rd Street is also newly pet-friendly. Both hotels have a limited number of rooms for their “furry guests,” so be sure to book ahead of time. Read the hotel’s pet policy here.
Residence Inn by Marriott Ocean City: The Residence Inn on 61st Street Bayside, welcome our furry friends, with a two dog maximum. The second dog is an additional $75 Pet Fee.
Fenwick Inn: The Fenwick Inn on 139th Street Bayside, has a limited number of pet-friendly rooms available. To book a pet-friendly room, visit their website here or call 800-641-0011. Pet fee of $30/per night will apply. Maximum of two pets per room. See their Pet-Friendly Section for more information.
Howard Johnson Oceanfront Plaza Hotel: The Howard Johnson Plaza on 11th Street and the Boardwalk is now pet-friendly starting in 2025. Click here to read their pet policies.
Kimberly Lynn – When your dog just wants to chill at the beach
Pet-friendly Restaurants
Like the hotels, it’s recommended that you call ahead to ensure pet-friendly seating is available. Many of these restaurants are only open during the summer months, but you will find some that are open now. With highs reaching into the 70s periodically in November (if we are lucky), many restaurants open their outdoor dining areas so you can hear the ocean – and enjoy lunch or dinner with your pet.
Featured dog-friendly restaurants and bars:
Pet friendly Angler Restaurant
The Angler: Just off the Route 50 bridge on Talbot St., the Angler has a large outdoor deck that looks out to the bridge and the bay, and on most summer nights you’ll find musical entertainment out there as well. The Angler welcomes dogs on their side deck. Choose from one of the Doggie Menu to treat your furry friend to a meal of their own. All items are served chopped up into bite-sized pieces, and all doggie entrées come with a treat for dessert.
Longboard Cafe: Up on 67th Street, your pup can sit with you on the front patio of Longboard Cafe while you enjoy a burger, a taco, crabcakes, a specialty cocktail, or all of the above.
Anthony’s Liquors: You can’t bring your pets inside while you’re perusing the aisles for liquor or snacks, but you can sit with them at the tables outside Anthony’s while you enjoy one of their Boars Head lunch meat sandwiches fresh from the deli. (Note that the meat’s almost too good to be sneaking scraps to the dog, but we won’t tell anyone if you do.)
(Most pet-friendly areas are limited to outdoor seating; Call restaurants for details.)
Laura Barton
Other places to take your pets
Photo by Rob Conway
The Ocean City Beach and Boardwalk: Between Oct. 1 and April 30, pets are welcome! Just be sure to keep them on a leash and pick up after them, although those rules apply pretty much everywhere.
Stinky Beach: Stinky Beach, also known by its formal name of Homer Gudelsky Park, is a small strip of beach located at the end of Old Bridge Road, in West Ocean City. Dogs are welcome on this little beach year-round.
Northside Park: Northside Park is the largest and most popular park in town, and its 58 acres are perfect for a long walk with the dog.
Ocean City Dog Playground: Located in Little Salisbury Park on the bayside of 94th Street is the Ocean City Dog Playground, the only outdoor area in town where dogs can roam free and unleashed. Passes are required — Learn more about those here.
Dog Park at 94th Street
Assateague Island: Another great place where dogs are welcome year-round is on the Assateague National Seashore (though not the State Park beaches). Take them camping there with you, or just for a scenic run by the ocean.
The cover image features OceanCity.com mascot Marley, and we promise there was a hand on the other end of that leash for the majority of her walk.
OCEAN CITY, MD — Jan. 2, 2026 — Reservations are now being accepted for the Art League of Ocean City’s fundraising event, “Art Uncorked,” to be held on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, 6-9 p.m. in the ballroom of the Ocean Pines Yacht Club. The event supports the nonprofit Art League and their many outreach programs.
Known for memorable events such as the annual pARTy of the Year and the upcoming 10th season of the Ocean City Film Festival, the Art League is continuing their momentum with this new event based on wine pairing and romance close to Valentine’s Day.
“Art Uncorked is a fundraising dinner where love, creativity, and Italian wine come together in perfect harmony,” Rina Thaler executive director of the Art League, said. “The night promises to be a heartfelt celebration of passion — for food, for wine, for art, and for giving back. Whether you’re sharing the night with a sweetheart, friends, or fellow art lovers, this is the perfect way to toast Valentine’s Week — an unforgettable evening of wine, art, and heartfelt giving.”
Guest will enjoy a five-course Italian dinner crafted by Touch of Italy, with each dish thoughtfully paired with Italian wines and guided by Laurie Forster, The Wine Coach®, a nationally-recognized wine expert and author of the award-winning book The Sipping Point: A Crash Course in Wine.
“With her signature wit and expertise as a sommelier, Laurie will show you how to fall in love with wine all over again — teaching not just how to drink it, but how to savor its character, chemistry, and connection with food,” Thaler said.
Through interactive tastings, guests will explore how flavors flirt, contrast, and find their perfect match. Bottles of specially-curated wines will be available for purchase at the end of the evening.
Throughout the evening, art masterpieces will be unveiled, intentionally paired with a featured wine to highlight how artistic expression and wine can complement each other. The pairings will be part of a silent auction at the end of the evening, with proceeds supporting the Art League and its mission to nurture creativity in the community.
“To tempt your palate and quench your curiosity for the evening, the Art League will reveal wines, menu courses, and artwork throughout the coming weeks,” Thaler continued. “To learn more about the experience, follow the Art League on social media and subscribe to our email list.”
Reservations are $150 per person, or a table for six can be reserved for $900. Tickets and more information about the event and The Wine Coach are available at https://givebutter.com/ArtUncorked
The Art League of Ocean City is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing the visual arts to the community through education, exhibits, scholarship, programs and community art projects.
Okay, listen up—because I’ve found the coolest place ever to have a birthday party, and I’m already begging my parents to book it. It’s Old Pro Golf, and it’s not just mini golf… it’s an EPIC birthday adventure!
Two Awesome Places to Choose From
There are indoor and outdoor options for mini gold birthdays at Old Pro Golf.
Old Pro Golf has two locations in Ocean City where you can have your party—68th Street and 136th Street—and both of them are totally awesome. The 68th Street one has DINOSAURS everywhere! You get to play mini golf around giant dinos, waterfalls, and caves. Then there’s the 136th Street place—it’s a Safari Village where you play through jungles, lions, and giraffes. How cool is that?!
Both places have indoor and outdoor mini golf, so even if it rains, the party still goes on. The outdoor courses are open whenever the weather’s nice, and there’s plenty of free parking, bathrooms, and room for strollers (which is good if you’ve got little brothers or sisters tagging along).
What You Get at the Party
Each party group gets their own Old Pro party assistant!
Here’s what totally sold me: Old Pro Golf gives you 2 whole hours of unlimited mini golf! That means you can play as many rounds as you want—no waiting, no limits! You also get your own party area inside with tables, chairs, and decorations. They set up cool tablecloths, plates, cups, and napkins, and you can even ask for decorations that match your theme—like dinosaurs or safari animals.
Every birthday kid gets their name on the big LED sign out front, so everyone driving by knows it’s your special day. And the best part? You get your own Old Pro Golf t-shirt and a party assistant who helps run the whole thing.
All your friends get a $5 arcade card and a goody bag with prizes and a free game of mini golf for later. How awesome is that?!
The party is for up to 12 players (it’s $300 total), and if you’ve got more friends, it’s just $20 extra per kid.
Pizza, Games, and More!
Pick from two indoor courses including the safari or underwater adventures.
You can totally upgrade your party to make it even more awesome. They’ve got a pizza party option with yummy Mione’s Pizza—medium or large, cheese or pepperoni. (I’m definitely asking for pepperoni.)
And if you love arcade games like me, you can upgrade your arcade card too:
Add $5 to get a $12 card
Add $10 to get a $20 card plus 100 tickets!
Add $20 to get a $30 card plus 350 tickets!
You can also bring your own cake and snacks, and there’s no cake-cutting fee (woohoo!). They even give you all the plates and utensils, so you don’t have to bring anything extra.
Booking the Best Party Ever
Each young guest gets a $5 gift card to the arcade.
My mom said you just need to pay a 25% deposit when you book, and if you change your mind at least a week before, you get your money back. Parties can happen any day of the week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the off-season (they don’t do birthdays between Memorial Day and Labor Day).
You can come early to decorate—most people get there about an hour before the party starts—and if you want to keep the fun going, you can add extra time for a little more money.
If it rains, no big deal—they have indoor mini golf too, so the party keeps going no matter what!
Why I’m Begging to Go There
Old Pro Golf offers indoor mini golf birthday adventures!
Seriously, this is not just a birthday party—it’s an adventure! You get dinosaurs or safari animals, mini golf, arcade games, pizza, goody bags, and your name on a sign for everyone to see. I can’t think of anything better.
So if you’re reading this, Mom, Dad… please—can I have my birthday party at Old Pro Golf this year? It’s going to be the best birthday ever!
If you’re planning a trip to Ocean City, MD off season, you might be wondering where you can find hotels with indoor pools. Fortunately, there are many great options in the area so guests can swim and relax despite the winter cold. The indoor pools listed below will help you and your family enjoy our beautiful resort before the summer crowd arrive.
The Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront Suites is a luxurious hotel located right on the beach between 32nd and 33rd Streets in Ocean City, Maryland. The hotel features a large indoor pool with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the ocean. The swimming pool is located within a large atrium surrounded by tables. 32 Palm Lounge borders the indoor pool and drinks or light fare can be enjoyed poolside.
The Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort is another excellent option for travelers looking for an indoor pool. The hotel is located on the beach at 91st Street and has a four-story tropical atrium, Olympic-sized indoor pool. There is also a poolside bar where guests can order drinks and snacks. Because this is the biggest indoor pool in Ocean City, your fun is multiplied, regardless of the size of your group.
The Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Ocean City is located on the beach at 17th Street. It is a family-friendly hotel that offers a range of amenities, including an indoor pool. The pool area features an indoor heated pool and a fully-equipped gym for guests to enjoy.
The Residence Inn by Marriott Ocean City is a great option for travelers looking for a hotel with an indoor pool. The hotel’s indoor pool area features a large pool, with windows overlook the bay. There is also a complimentary breakfast buffet for guests to enjoy each morning. Located just south of the Route 90 bridge, the Residence Inn is perfect for quick arrivals and departures no matter the traffic.
The Carousel Hotel is a popular choice for families visiting Ocean City. Located in north Ocean City, the Carousel is located at 118th Street on the beach. The hotel features a large indoor pool complex, complete with hot tub, sauna, and fitness center. The Carousel Hotel also offers a range of family-friendly activities, including a large ice skating rink, and a game room.
Home2 Suites is located just north of the Route 90 bridge in Ocean City at 67th Street. The hotel is on the bayside and offers modern amenities and a convenient location. The hotel features an indoor pool, as well as a fitness center and outdoor patio area. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary breakfast and fully-equipped suites. It also has a great bayside view!
The Fenwick Inn is located bayside in North Ocean City, MD, and offers a great value for visitors. The hotel has recently been remodeled and features a heated indoor swimming pool, hot tub, and Splash Pad. There’s also an on-site roof top restaurant and bar, as well as a game room and fitness center.
The Cambria
The indoor pool at the Cambria with garage-style doors to the outside deck and bay beyond.
Another easy in, easy out hotel in Ocean City is the relatively new Cambria Hotel located just north of the Route 50 bridge on the bay in downtown Ocean City. They have an indoor pool with glass walls kept in place during cold weather, but which can be moved to make the pool indoor/outdoor during warmer weather. This hotel has a restaurant, The View, in the lobby area and the well-known and much loved Spain Wine Bar on the roof.
There you have it, Ocean City, MD, is an excellent destination for tourists looking for a beach vacation with the added benefit of indoor pools in hotels. Whether you’re traveling with family or looking for a luxurious getaway, there is an indoor pool option for you. So pack your bags, grab your swimsuit, and get ready to enjoy all that Ocean City has to offer!
As another year comes to a close, we’ve looked back through the many photos captured along the way to bring you a visual recap of 2025 in Ocean City. Sit back, enjoy the memories, and see how many of these familiar events and places you recognize.
January 2025
First snowfall of the year on the BoardwalkSnow on the beach at 139th Street looking northDemolition of Phillips Beach Plaza
February 2025
Snow at SeacretsHorse Shoe Crab on a winter beachCelebrating Shore Craft Beer’s Love o Tap at SeacretsDetectorists on a deserted beach, searching for treasure!Alaska Stand on the Boardwalk closes for good, to be replaced by Thrashers.
March 2025
Nick’s new mini golf at 146th starts to take shapeThe new Hyatt Place expansion receives its finishing touches.Ocean City’s St Partick’s Day ParadeThe Days Inn on 22nd street shows off its new dog friendly facilities!Northside Park, not yet in bloomA foggy day in North Ocean City
April 2025
New Island Golf on 129th St construction beginsLittle Free Library at Northside ParkBlossoms bloom at Northside ParkThe reincarnation of the iconic Tony’s Pizza on the BoardwalkSpringfest 2025 commences with sunny blue skies
May 2025
Cruisin’ Ocean City Boardwalk Parade starts May off with sunshineThe construction of the new Smash Burger on the Boardwalk at 8th Street startsThe new luxury dining and cocktail bar on the bay, Seacret’s Hideaway, opens on 49th Street
June 2025
Steam Punk-themed mini golf on 129th street almost ready to tee offFenwick Island Lighthouse shining bright in the June sunshineTemperatures warm as summer beginsThe Kabob Project, serving Middle Eastern cuisine, opens on the Boardwalk at 14th StreetThe Best of Ocean City Contest winners are announcedFlamingo Coast replaces Tony’s Pizza on this corner of the BoardwalkThe Smile Sign on the Boardwalk offers an new place for capturing a great photo opportunitySmash Burger is open for business on the Boardwalk at 8th StreetThe new Hyatt Place Expansion is open for business
July 2025
The new Seacrets Cruise opens as Ocean City’s largest floating tropical experienceThe lazy days of summer on 128th StreetThe rainy days of summer on the BoardwalkA perfect beach day on 67th StreetSummer time at Northside ParkBoaters enjoying the sand bars in the bayThe new OCPD Downtown Station opensEnjoying the beach in Ocean City MdCrowds gather to enjoy the weekly Sundaes in the ParkNick’s Ropes Course in full swingNew location for Trapped Escape Rooms open on 80th Street
August 2025
Aerial view of the White Marlin OpenEvening on the Ocean City BoardwalkA storm is approaching in Ocean City MdThe new Bai Tee bakery opens on 14th StreetClean up after the stormThe Jeeps arrive in Ocean CityThe Taylor Bank on 92nd street is demolishedSunset over Ember’s Golf and the Grand HotelOyster & Scales on Dorchester Street opens
September 2025
A significantly quieter September beachOld beach cottages in North Ocean CityJackets needed on the BoardwalkSeptember 11th remembered on the BoardwalkBike Week in Ocean City startsOceans Calling Music Festival comes to Ocean City MdMural Dedication at the Henry Hotel
October 2025
The Country Calling Music Festival takes place in Ocean City MdEndless Cruising putters down the BoardwalkCheers! to Oktoberfest in BerlinWalls come tumbling down at Old Pro Golfs castle on 28th StreetPerfect fall weather for Sunfest.
November 2025
Shore Craft Beer’s OCtoberfest at 3rd Street ParkLight up night at Winterfest of LightsTrain Garden for the first time inside Winterfest of Lights at Northside ParkA very chilly winter beach
December 2025
A very wet, wintery BoardwalkOcean City’s Christmas ParadeThe remodeling of Guidos Burritos on 33rd Street beginsWinterfest of Lights from aboveA winter view of one of Ocean City’s many canalsThe Ocean City beach, beautiful no matter what the season
Ready to start making plans for your 2026 visit to Ocean City Md? Start by clicking here for hotels, and discover all that’s going on in 2026 so you can plan your trip around the resort’s events here!
Give the Gift of Craft Beverages & Winter Fun This Holiday Season.
Ocean City, MD — The holidays just got a lot more exciting. This year, skip the socks and sweaters — treat your friends, family, or yourself to the ultimate craft-beverage experience at Love on Tap 2026 by Shore Craft Beer. Happening Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Seacrets,Jamaica USA, this lively celebration brings together dozens of local and regional breweries and distilleries, live music, and a festive vibe that’s perfect for a winter getaway or a gift that keeps on giving. Tickets are available now at ShoreCraftBeerFest.com. SHORE CRAFT BEER and festival organizers are encouraging early holiday purchases as a unique experiential gift for friends, family, coworkers, and craft beer enthusiasts.
A Holiday Gift That Stands Out
Love on Tap 2026 offers attendees three hours of unlimited tastings from local and regional breweries, along with hard seltzers, RTD cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. VIP ticket holders receive early entry, extended tasting time, and a special VIP gift. Everybody will get a commemorative pint glass to enjoy for years to come.
The event also features live entertainment throughout the venue. Seacrets, Jamaica USA is central to the festival experience. Seacrets is listed as one of the “must-sees” in Ocean City and now you can combine the fun with a winter craft beverage and live music festival! “Seacrets is excited to welcome festival-goers back for Love on Tap,”said Bailey Phillips, Marketing Director at Seacrets “Morley Hall will be rocking with Elephants Dancing, and our Main Bar will host an additional band to keep the energy high throughout the afternoon. It’s one of the best winter events in Ocean City, and we’re proud to be part of it.”
It’s always a party at Seacrets, at all times of year.
Gifting Ideas
Wrap up a ticket confirmation in a holiday card for the Ocean City lover in your life — it’s a unique and thoughtful alternative to the usual seasonal gifts.
Pair a GA or VIP ticket with a hotel stay from the curated options below for a full “beercation” weekend package.
Give a group ticket package to friends or family — Love on Tap makes a fun shared outing and a great excuse for everyone to reconnect.
Make It a Weekend Getaway – Book Your Stay at hotels.oceancity.com
With Love on Tap scheduled during one of the quietest, most affordable times of year in Ocean City, attendees are encouraged to turn the event into a full weekend escape. Rooms can be booked at hotels.oceancity.com, where travelers will find a wide selection of Ocean City hotels, many offering winter rates and local perks.
“A discounted festival ticket paired with a hotel stay makes an exceptional holiday gift,” said Ann Hillyer of Shore Craft Beer. “It’s an entire weekend of relaxation, entertainment, and local craft beverages with your friends or family. Winter in Ocean City has its own charm, and this event gives people a great reason to come enjoy it.”
Booking through hotels.oceancity.com also gives travelers access to exclusive local offers and perks that aren’t available through third-party booking sites AND YOU SAVE $5 ON EACH GA OR VIP TICKET. Just book your stay and use the coupon emailed to you to save $5 per ticket!
Whether you’re gifting to a beer fan, a party-lover, or someone who just wants a fun escape, this festival delivers both experience and memories.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026 Location: Seacrets, 49th Street, Ocean City, MD Time: VIP entry at 1:00 p.m.; General Admission from 2:00–5:00 p.m. Tickets: Available at ShoreCraftBeerFest.com
JOIN OCEAN CITY ON NEW YEAR’S DAY FOR THE 32ND ANNUAL PENGUIN SWIM!
Get ready to dip your penguin tail into the icy Atlantic—all in support of our community’s Healthcare Heroes! The 32nd Annual Penguin Swim splashes into action on Thursday, January 1, 2026, on the beach at the Princess Royale Oceanfront Hotelon 91st Street in Ocean City, Maryland.
This annual New Year’s Day tradition brings together hundreds of brave Penguins each year to raise funds for our not-for-profit community hospital, Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin Md. Their spirited plunges help ensure Atlantic General continues to deliver the exceptional, dependable care our community counts on.
Individual and team fundraising efforts make a tremendous impact—but they can’t do it alone. Business sponsors play a vital role in the success of the Penguin Swim, one of Atlantic General Hospital’s largest annual fundraisers. Together, these efforts support the hospital’s mission to provide coordinated, quality care, personalized service, and community health education.
Not quite up for a January plunge into the Atlantic? No worries—come out anyway to cheer on the brave souls who do take the icy dive! Enjoy the wildly creative costumes they proudly don; they’re guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and warm your heart… even if not your toes!
Sign up to register or make a donation to this incredible event. All proceeds benefit the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation. AGH is a 501(c)(3) organization; contributions are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
As the year winds down and the promise of a fresh start shimmers on the horizon, there’s no better place to welcome the New Year than Ocean City, Maryland. With its sweeping 10-mile beach, peaceful boardwalk, and endless selection of hotels and restaurants, Ocean City offers a truly unforgettable way to ring in the year ahead.
Imagine standing on the sand, feeling the crisp ocean breeze as waves roll in beneath a star-studded sky. Our iconic boardwalk—open year-round—offers the perfect winter stroll or bike ride, all without the summer crowds.
As midnight approaches, make your way to Northside Park for one last walkthrough of Winterfest of Lights before the New Year’s Eve fireworks, or head to the beach near Dorchester Street to watch brilliant colors burst over the Atlantic Ocean. Prefer to stay cozy? Celebrate in style at one of Ocean City’s many hotels or restaurants hosting their own New Year’s festivities.
However you choose to celebrate, Ocean City is the perfect place to say farewell to the old and welcome the magic of the new.
Hotels offering NYE Dinner, Dancing and an Overnight Stay in Ocean City Md
There’s 2 different options at the Grand Hotel Ocean City:
MIDNIGHT AT THE BEACH CELEBRATION – One Night Accommodations December 31st starting at $355. Two Nights Accommodations starting at $414.
3 Course Dinner at the Grand Terrace Restaurant between 5-9PM. Open Bar at the Epic Bar and Grille between 9PM-1AM. Champagne Toast at Midnight, Music and Karaoke and Party Favors. Find out more here.
EPIC MIDNIGHT BASH – One Night Accommodations December 31st. Starting at $248
Two Nights Accommodations December 30th- December 31st. Starting at $307
Open Bar at the Epic Bar and Grille between 9PM-1AM. Champagne Toast at Midnight, Music and Karaoke and Party Favors. Find out more here.
Annual Bayside Balcony Drop – Come out for Ocean City’s ONLY live ball drop event on New Year’s Eve! Our live ball drop gives guests and locals the opportunity to ring in the new year, in Times Square-fashion!
Watch the ball slowly drop before midnight from the Resident Inn’s bayfront locale, from inside their Bayview Bar and Grille, OR from your private hotel balcony! Stay packages available and complimentary champagne toast at midnight!
Hotel stay packages are available on Marriott.com so you can guarantee a FRONT ROW bayview suite for the ball drop! Find out all the details here!
Ring in the New Year at the Howard Johnson® By Wyndham Oceanfront Plaza Hotel. Celebrate with their New Year’s Eve Package. Package includes 2 or 3 nights accommodations, 4 course dinner, Live DJ starting at 7pm, cash bar, Champagne toast, New Year’s Day brunch, and 4PM late check out. More details here.
Three Nights (Mon.-Thur.) Side View: $625 per couple, Oceanfront: $700 per couple
Two Nights (Tue.-Thur.) Side View: $499 per couple, Oceanfront: $545 per couple
Join the Princess Royale for their NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY — AROUND THE WORLD! Travel the globe without leaving the dance floor! Doors open at 7PM December 31, Tickets: $169 per person (All-Inclusive) Call 1-800-476-9253 to reserve your party tickets only! Your Night Includes: 5 hours of premium open bar, Food stations from around the world, Live entertainment by Don’t Stop Band, Champagne toast at midnight, Prize: 2-night stay for Best Costume! Themed décor, signature cocktails & international flair. Room packages are also available. Call 1-800-476-9253 or 410-524-7777 ext. 2009 or find out more details here.
Ring in 2026 the right way by booking the Fenwick Inn NYE Party Package. The party package includes 2 VIP Tickets to the 8th floor party, AYCE and drink from 8pm-1am at Vista Rooftop, live music from the Nola Band, views of the firework show at Northside Park, midnight champagne toast, and private room after the party! Book direct to SAVE 800-641-0011. More details here.
The Holiday Inn Oceanfront’s Package includes two nights accommodations, dinner, dessert, DJ, and dancing! The Philly Keys will perform their Dueling Pianos show. Also included: bottle of champagne at check-in, $30 breakfast gift card, champagne toast at midnight, open bar, and midnight sandwich buffet. Full details here.
Kick off 2026 at Seacrets! They open at 11am on NYE with a huge live entertainment lineup, celebrating all night ’til 3AM, and reopening New Year’s Day at 11am with food specials and more live music! Make a reservation at seacretsevents.com to enjoy their special NYE menu. Pre-purchase cover + grab Line Skips now on LineLeap!
Your New Year’s Eve plans? Officially handled. From lobster bisque and lamb lollipops to petite filet, duck, and tiramisu bites — Longboard Cafe’s NYE menu is built to impress from first course to last toast. $110 per person | Table from 6PM–close, Champagne toast included, Reservations required: 443-664-5639
Spain Wine Bar’s Rooftop New Year’s Eve Event: Spain’s tapas, charcuterie boards, paella, desserts, wines, and expertly handcrafted cocktails. Find out more here.
Spend New Years Eve at Beach Barrels on 132nd Street and watch your favorite southern rock band, Chesapeake Sons, play live at Beach Barrels! There’s an Open Bar from 9pm-12:30am with beer, wine, and mixed drinks, party favors and light fare are included. Find out more here.
New Years Day in Ocean City Md
New Years Day has the 32nd Annual Penguin Swim which will take place on the beach at The Princess Royale Oceanfront Hotel at 91st Street and the beach. Watch or take part, it’s up to you!
Spending New Year’s Eve in Ocean City, MD, can be as peaceful or as exciting as you wish. Whether you choose to stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy a beachside bonfire, or dance the night away at a lively party, Ocean City provides a unique and memorable way to usher in the New Year. So, pack your warmest layers, grab your loved ones, and get ready for a countdown like no other, in our favorite beach resort.
A WEEK IN REVIEW OF OCEAN CITY PICTURES – Weeks 50 and 51 of 2025
Let’s look at several pictures taken in Ocean City, Maryland over these past 2 weeks between December 13th to December 26th.
Here’s some pictures of weeks 50 and 51 of 2025 in Ocean City.
The cold has arrived to Ocean City but no measurable snow to date. But some frosting of the Ocean City boardwalk. Hoping all had a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Sunrises in Ocean City
Even cool in winter!
Beach sunrisebeach sunrise on cloudy morning
Ocean City Boardwalk
Fewer people walking the boards but always interesting to visit.
boardwalk on partly sunny dayFrosted over OC boardwalkEvery seashell tells a storyshell stories
It’s Christmas time and children everywhere are excitedly waiting for the annual return of Santa Claus for special gifts under the tree. However as we get older and perhaps a bit wiser, us adults know the true meaning of Christmas.
The Best Gift from Ocean City, Maryland
A trip to Berlin to see their Christmas decorations is a gift in itself.
At the beginning of the season, I asked Ocean City, Maryland enthusiasts, “What’s the best Ocean City gift that you’ve ever received?” While I was hoping to curate a list of gifts that would fit under the Christmas or in a hanging stocking, the responses quickly reminded me that Ocean City gives us the most precious gifts of all- and none of them are truly things, but memories, experiences, and feelings. Here’s a list of heart warming responses. Get the tissues for some of these.
Met my wife on the boardwalk on August 15, 1971 at 4th street
This house on 10th street was bought by my parents in 1965 when I was 4.
Watching my girls grow up with the same memories I have of Ocean City.
A Paul McGee print of Ocean City, MD. We have all 3 now.
My love of the ocean thanks to my mom and grandparents. I’m now 71.
Royalton Hotel recipe for clam chowder. My mother paid $10 for it.
My dad taught us to body surf. A precious gift you can’t get in a store.
A starfish from Souvenir City my mom gave to me on my first beach trip when I was 7.
A cold ass beer from Cork Bar!
I gift a week to the beach to my son every year.
A beautiful welk sitting at high tide all by itself.
My kids would put all their tickets together and cash in to get me a surprise gift.
Memories with my grandparents
Met my wife there in 1977, married in 1980, and still going strong.
Meeting new friends on the boardwalk at a Christmas in July bike ride 😉
The best time of my childhood.
Sunshine and ocean spray
Met my husband there when we were 16 and got married on the beach 9 years ago.
My daughter painted a watercolor of our beach house for us
Beautiful weather while on vacation
Memory of family and friends who are no longer with us.
Stuffed ponies from Assateague Island
Out house on 139th street- a gift but definitely earned
Definitely memories, but some beautiful beach jewelry, too
Print of Violets are Blue by Robert Barnes
A ring from the Turquoise House in the late 70s
Childhood memories
Mother daughter beach vacations and trying our favorite eateries
Memories of stays at Francis Scott Key Family Resort
Just being there walking on the beach
Going out early looking for seashells
Getting engaged on the Judith M
All of the memories from our condo on 94th
Sunset pictures
Christmas ornaments
Meeting my husband
A great job there for 34 years
A ton of great friends
Times spent with my parents at The Marigot and ribs from JRs
Fond memories
Memories…and Wockenfuss candies
The summer of 2001
All the beautiful sunrises
An ornament from the Christmas tree store that was there
My clock from Shantytown
Priceless memories of my in laws that used to manage the 9400 building
A little wooden memory box from Shantytown
Our wedding vows
Memories from the Hamilton on 3rd street from the late 1940s
Our honeymoon in 1981. We’ve been married 44 years.
My honeymoon in 1984.
Just being there every year
An old boardwalk plank
My engagement ring from my husband
Memories with my Grandma in Ocean City
A kite from the Kite Loft
Scopes
Lots of hangovers
A weeks stay at Dunes Manor
A Christmas ornament from Christmas Spirit I got as a little girl
My wedding reception at Phillips by the Sea on 13th and the boards
My lifeguard experience from ‘59 to ‘61
My wedding at Fagers Island
My engagement ring from a sunrise proposal
The smell of the ocean just coming over the bridge
A painting of Ocean City’s boardwalk
My engagement there in 1989
My Ocean City bracelet from my mother who passed away
Meeting The Bunting Family on Dorchester Street in 1983- now life long friends
My wedding night July 1, 2006
Reminiscing while looking at old Scopes we find in the drawer
Coffee walks on the boardwalk
Watching my kids play in the sand building sand castles
Seeing familiar sites while driving from home to Ocean City, Md
The feeling of driving over the bridge
Like Linus once said, “That’s what Christmas is all about Charlie Brown. Merry Christmas and Holidays to everyone who loves Ocean City, Maryland as much as I do.
There’s 2 different options at the Grand Hotel Ocean City:
Ring in the New Year at the Howard Johnson® By Wyndham Oceanfront Plaza Hotel. Celebrate with their New Year’s Eve Package. Package includes 2 or 3 nights accommodations, 4 course dinner, Live DJ starting at 7pm, cash bar, Champagne toast, New Year’s Day brunch, and 4PM late check out. More details 
Spend New Years Eve at Beach Barrels on 132nd Street and watch your favorite southern rock band, Chesapeake Sons, play live at 
