What items are allowed & prohibited at Country Calling? 

(Info from the official Country Calling site)

Guests and their belongings are subject to search upon entry or re-entry. You can help keep the lines moving quickly by leaving large bags at home. The following items are ALLOWED:

• CLEAR bags made up of clear plastic, vinyl, or pvc, and no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″. Small clutch purses and fanny packs with no more than 1 pocket.  Clutch purses no larger than 6″ x 9″ (See Full Bag Policy Below)
• Baby Strollers
• Frisbees
• Binoculars
• Blankets, Sheets, Towels
• Cameras (basic point and shoot consumer-grade cameras) without detachable lenses and other accessories (monopods, selfie sticks, tripods, GoPro mounts, and other attachments are not allowed)
• Empty reusable water bottles and hydration packs (See full bag policy), and plastic or aluminum water bottles
• Sunscreen in non-aerosol containers is allowed in the size of 3.4 ounces or less
• Personal sized hand sanitizer 
• Factory sealed Naloxone/Narcan kit

Prescription Medicine Requirements:

• Anyone needing prescription medicine at the festival must present the pharmacy-labeled container which states the prescription, dosage, and patient name to our medical staff at each entrance gate. Patrons are only allowed a sufficient supply of the prescribed medication for that day.
• Medicines needing to be inhaled or smoked are prohibited unless in a prescribed inhaler.
• Over the counter medications are allowed in a sufficient supply for the day. Bottle contents will be verified by medical personnel at the entry gates.

The following items are PROHIBITED:

• Any bags that are NOT CLEAR bags made up of clear plastic, vinyl, or pvc, and are larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″. Any Small clutch purses and fanny packs with more than 1 pocket.  Clutch purses that are larger than 6″ x 9″ (See Full Bag Policy Below)
• Aerosol containers, including sunscreen and personal beauty products. NOTE: Sunscreen in non-aerosol containers is allowed in the size of 3.4 ounces or less
• Coolers of any kind. (Exceptions may be made for medical use)
• Framed backpacks, multiple pocket back packs and any pack that is not aligned with the allowed backpacks above. (See Full Bag Policy Below)
• Any and all professional audio recording equipment
• Professional cameras and professional recording (photo, video, audio) equipment (NO large professional detachable zoom lenses, stands, monopods, tripods, attachment sticks (selfie sticks) or other commercial equipment.
• Any and all professional video equipment. No video recording will be allowed
• Drones or any other remote flying device
• Hammocks
• Glass containers of any kind
• Illegal and Illicit substances of any kind
• Outside food or beverage (including alcohol) of any kind
• Umbrellas
• Pets (except service animals)
• Selfie sticks
• Skateboards, scooters, bicycles, wagons, carts or any personal motorized vehicles
• Tents, canopies, or shade structures of any kind
• Unauthorized/unlicensed vendors are not allowed. No unauthorized solicitation and materials including handbills, flyers, stickers, beach balls, give-aways, samples, etc.
• Weapons or explosives of any kind
• Fireworks
• Large chains or spiked jewelry
• Bicycles inside festival grounds (free parking is available near festival entrance)
• Carts of any kind (including Red Wagons)
• Chairs of any kind
• Smoking of any kind, including vaping

FULL BAG POLICY:

• ALL bags will be searched before entry.
• Small clutch purses and fanny packs that are 6″ x 9″ or smaller do not need to be clear, but can have no more than one pocket.
• All other bags larger than 6″ x 9″ must be smaller than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ and clear.
• Hydration packs are allowed and do not need to be clear, but must be emptied of all liquid and have no more than two pockets in addition to the one holding the water reservoir.

   *SUBJECT TO CHANGE

 

 

Public Transportation

Public Transportation is available on both the Ocean City’s Beach Bus that travels north and southbound along Coastal Highway and the West Ocean City Shuttle to and from the West Ocean City Park and Ride. All Ocean City municipal buses are accessible.

 

Parking If you are driving from outside of Ocean City, parking options are available at the West Ocean City Park and Ride and at both the Ocean City Convention Center Parking Lot and the 100th Street Municipal Parking Lot. There will be Public Transportation available to and from the festival from these locations. Accessible parking is available at all municipal parking lots for patrons who have Placards. Be advised there are no parking options for the festival from N. Division Street south to the inlet. Addresses for the lots listed above are as follows: West Ocean City Park and Ride 12848 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, MD 21842 Ocean City Convention Center Parking Lot 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842 100th Street Municipal Parking Lot 10267 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842 Accessible pick-up/drop-off The Accessible drop off and pick up point is available at 1 N. Division St (east of Baltimore Ave.).   Accessible Festival Entrance There are two entrances at the festival. One located at the intersection of the Boardwalk and Talbor Street and the other located at the intersection of Boardwalk and S Division Street (next to Dumser’s Dairyland). There are specially designated lanes at each Festival entrance for patrons with disabilities. Look for the accessible signs above the entrance lanes or ask a staff member to direct you to the lanes.   ​​Accessibility Services Center The Access Center will be located at the main Guest Services & Information tent located just inside the festival entrance located off of the main Boardwalk and South Division Street. Our Access Center services include, but are not limited to:

• Answers to questions specific to the Accessibility Program
• Information relevant to our patrons with disabilities
• Requests for accessibility wristbands
• Power outlets for recharging powered mobility devices
• Programming information in large print.
• Assisted Listening Devices (ALDs) available upon request

Wristbands and Accessible Viewing Areas Country Calling works to make sure that all festival fans have an enjoyable experience. All Festival attendees must have an event ticket for admission into the Festival, and purchasing a separate accessible ticket is not necessary. Upon arrival, please visit the Accessibility services Center for information on the accessibility wristband program. Patrons can request an accessibility wristband at the Access Center. This wristband is to show Festival staff that the patron plus one companion is eligible to enter the accessible viewing areas for patrons with mobility needs or the Deaf and Hard of Hearing areas. The accessibility wristband is non-transferable and is good for the entirety of the show. Note: The wristband does not guarantee a spot in these areas. Please note that both viewing areas have a limited capacity and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. We cannot save or reserve seats or areas on the platform. Once it’s determined that an accessible viewing area is filled to capacity (including adequate aisle space for entering and exiting the area), the area will not be available for additional entry. Signage will be placed at the Festival identifying all viewing areas including accessible viewing areas for patrons with mobility needs as well as a designated area for patrons who are Deaf / Hard of Hearing. Accessible viewing areas are marked with the International Symbol of Access on the Festival Map. To see the designated accessible viewing locations, please visit the Accessibility services center for a map of the festival grounds, visit the map on the official Festival website.   Viewing Area Wristband Policies

• Accessibility wristbands to access Accessible seated viewing platforms and/or Deaf / Hard of Hearing viewing areas are good for the whole weekend. 
• Do NOT remove your wristband for the entire duration of the event. If your accessibility program wristband is damaged or removed, it can be replaced at the Access Center, but you must bring the old wristband to the accessibility services center.
• One companion will be admitted with each guest with an accessible viewing area wristband.
• If a guest wants to switch their companion, please notify a guest services representative.
• All festival attendees must have an event ticket for admission into the Festival.

Patrons with Mobility Limitations The Festival is wheelchair accessible but is a large venue with great distances between activities and attractions. It is outdoors and across city streets and pathways. Some travel is over natural terrain and terrain designed for motor vehicles. If it should rain, there could be mud. The Festival does not provide personal care, golf cart rides, or push service of any kind or wheelchairs for rent or loan. Wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and three or four-wheeled scooters are allowed only for use by patrons with mobility disabilities. For safety reasons, requests to use other power-driven mobility devices will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Powered wheelchairs may also be charged at the Access Center. Patrons should bring all cords and accessories needed to charge their devices. Chargers must use a 110-volt, 20-amp circuit. Accessible portable toilets are available at the ends of each bank of portable toilets throughout the Festival venue.   American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreted Performances

The Festival provides many American Sign Language (ASL) interpreted music performances for patrons who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Please email access@countrycallingfestival.comto request a specific performance be interpreted. 

We ask that you make a request no later than September 4th, 2024 to allow adequate time to prepare. We will make every effort to accommodate, but cannot guarantee, requests not timely submitted. 

A schedule of interpreted performances will be posted here.   

Special Dietary Needs and Prescription Medicine

Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the Festival, but if a patron has special medical dietary restrictions, this can be allowed on a case by case basis, please Email access@countrycallingfestival.com for more information. 

Patrons are allowed to bring their medically necessary materials and medications into the Festival, provided that all medicine has a prescription label with the patron’s name. Our personnel at the entry gates will verify the contents of any medically necessary materials. Out of concern for the festival staff who handle the trash, please dispose of your medical waste and syringes in the proper disposal, which is located at the medical tent. Please see the official Festival map for the location of the medical tent. Please do not dispose of these items in other trash bins at the Festival.

 

Service Animals 

Pets are not allowed within the Festival grounds. However, miniature horses and dogs, which have been trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability, are welcome. If accompanied by a service animal, you will be provided a Patron Notice of Responsibility for a Service Animal or you can request the form in advance from access@countrycallingfestival.com. Please enter through the accessible lane at either entrance.

 

Have Questions About Our ADA Access & Accommodations?

For any questions, please email: access@countrycallingfestival.com

(provided by Country Calling)

Yes! Reserve you locker in advance of the festival here.   *There will be limited number of lockers available for rent the day of the festival. 

 

Festival patrons can leave and re-enter as often as they would like until 7pm (local time). Patrons will scan their wristband and pass through security each time they re-enter the site.

 

The White Marlin Open has several rules designed to minimize the number of fish that are actually killed and brought to the scales.  Then, the tournament encourages the anglers to donate their catches to charities in the Ocean City area who help feed those in need.  Catch n Carry processes and flash freezes the fish before distributing the meat to 3 local charities including the Maryland Food Bank.  For more information, you can read this article: https://www.oceancity.com/the-fate-of-fish-at-the-white-marlin-open-in-ocean-city-a-conservation-success-story/

The Town of Ocean City prides itself on hosting free weekly events throughout the summer to help you enjoy your vacation without blowing your budget. Find a full list here.

• The Beach is free
• Walk & Explore the boardwalk
• View Free Events

Cruisin’ Ocean City is a celebration of cars – over 3000 hot rods, customs, classics and trucks – in it’s 32nd year.  It includes car shows dotted around Ocean City and the surrounding area as well as entertainment, boardwalk parades, special guests, featured cars, live music, celebrities and more.

There are some spots around town, but we would recommend that you park your car at your hotel and use the bus to get around.  You can also park your car at the West Ocean City Park and Ride and catch the bus into Ocean City. The event promoter has more information on their site.

First, check out the OceanCity.com Cruisin’ Guide.  You can also go to the organizer’s site.  

You can find the complete schedule of events for Cruisin’ 2024 on the organizer’s site.

Yes. The bus is normally free from the Park and Ride in West Ocean City, but during the big festival weekends, the Town charges $4 to ride all day. The schedule is here.

Yes. The bus is normally free from the Park and Ride in West Ocean City, but during the big festival weekends, the Town charges $4 to ride all day. The schedule is here.

**The Boardwalk tram is suspended indefinitely** The Boardwalk Tram costs $5.00 per person, per boarding, per one way ride. Although the tram runs every day throughout the summer, it may not maintain its normal schedule during during inclement weather due to safety precautions. For further questions please contact Transportation at 410-723-1606. Summer Boardwalk Tram Hours: May 24 – September 2 2024, 12pm -Midnight/Daily Special Events Boardwalk Tram Hours: Springfest: May 2-5 2024, OC Cruisin’ Weekend: May 16-19, Post Labor Day: September 3-8, Bikefest: September 11-15, Sunfest: Thursday, October 24-27

Trailers and oversized vehicles may not be parked on Baltimore Avenue at any time. Parking a trailer or oversized vehicle on any street or paved public lot without a permit is prohibited between May 1 and October 31. Permits are available to registered participants of Cruisin’ Ocean City, OC BikeFest, and Endless Summer Cruisin’ for a fee of $50 from the event organizer. There are three options for parking your trailer in town without a permit.

There are three options for parking your trailer in town without a permit. 1. The West Ocean City Park & Ride has limited free trailer parking available starting at noon on the Friday prior to the Cruisin’ OC, OC BikeFest and Endless Summer Cruisin’ events through noon on the Monday immediately following each event. However, no overnight parking is allowed – Vehicles and trailers will be towed if parked between 3:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. 2. The 100th Street gravel lot also has limited trailer parking for a daily fee that can be paid on site. 3. In addition, you may make arrangements with a private property owner to park on their lot. You may not park on any public street. nn

The White Marlin Open has several rules designed to minimize the number of fish that are actually killed and brought to the scales.  Then, the tournament encourages the anglers to donate their catches to charities in the Ocean City area who help feed those in need.  Catch n Carry processes and flash freezes the fish before distributing the meat to 3 local charities including the Maryland Food Bank.  For more information, you can read this article: https://www.oceancity.com/the-fate-of-fish-at-the-white-marlin-open-in-ocean-city-a-conservation-success-story/

The White Marlin Open is held in Ocean City, Maryland, typically during the first full week of August.

The weigh-ins are free and open to the public. They take place at Harbour Island at 14th Street and the Bay in Ocean City each day of the tournament, typically from 4:00 PM to 9:15 PM.

You can also watch the weigh-ins on the live screen at Marlin Fest in the inlet parking lot.

 

Yes, but there’s a registration fee and limited space. Registration details are usually available on the White Marlin Open’s official website.

It’s the world’s largest and richest billfish tournament. Anglers from around the globe compete to catch white marlin, blue marlin, tuna, wahoo, and dolphin fish (mahi-mahi).

The prize money varies depending on the number of boats entered and the categories won. The purse can reach millions of dollars.

Yes, there are often associated events like the Marlin Fest at the Inlet, which features vendors, live music, and food.

OceanCity.com will have lots of great content on the tournament throughout the week.  In addition, the official website (whitemarlinopen.com) is the best source for up-to-date information.

Parking can be limited, especially during peak weigh-in times. Consider alternative transportation options like the Ocean City bus system.  There is parking at the Ocean City Convention Center and the Town of Ocean City frequently runs shuttles from there to Harbour Island.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. It can get hot and sunny on the docks. Also, bring your camera or phone to capture the action.  You can bring water – but you may also be able to buy water from entrepreneurial vendors.  As usual, bring money if you want to buy an iconic White Marlin Open t-shirt or other cool stuff from vendors.

 

Yes, but book well in advance, as hotels and rentals tend to fill up quickly during the White Marlin Open.  You can find Ocean City hotels here. If you can’t find a hotel in Ocean City, you might try Salisbury.

Yes, absolutely.  Katie Ruskey has come up with several articles to educate readers about the WMO.  Here are just a few for 2024:

• Guide to the White Marlin Open 2024
• Tour the Incredible Boats of the White Marlin Open
• The White Marlin Open:  10 Rules You Probably Didn’t Know
• The White Marlin Open:  A 3 AM Party Like You’ve Never Seen
• Can This Year’s WMO Anglers Top Last Year’s $40,000 Bar Tab for the Teaser’s Cup?

**The Boardwalk tram is suspended indefinitely** The Boardwalk Tram costs $5.00 per person, per boarding, per one way ride. Although the tram runs every day throughout the summer, it may not maintain its normal schedule during during inclement weather due to safety precautions. For further questions please contact Transportation at 410-723-1606. Summer Boardwalk Tram Hours: May 24 – September 2 2024, 12pm -Midnight/Daily Special Events Boardwalk Tram Hours: Springfest: May 2-5 2024, OC Cruisin’ Weekend: May 16-19, Post Labor Day: September 3-8, Bikefest: September 11-15, Sunfest: Thursday, October 24-27

The Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City, Maryland is set up in Northside Park.  The address for your navigation system is:   200 125th St, Ocean City, MD 21842 Parking is available inside the park and on the side streets around the park.  You can also take the Ocean City bus from your hotel.  These buses are running every half hour and the ride all day cost is $4.  You can see the real-time location of buses here: https://oct.transloc.com/

This year, 2024, there will be no tram at Winterfest of Lights.  

Yes, pets are welcome on Wednesday evenings at Winterfest of Lights.

Yes, mobility devices, including scooters and powered wheelchairs, are available for rent on-site at $10.00 per two hours. Standard wheelchairs are also available. For rentals, you can contact Scooters-4-Rent.com at (302) 280-6203.

Yes, you can get a cup of hot chocolate, get a picture with Santa Claus, buy arts, crafts and unique gifts.

Yes, the Winterfest of Lights is subject to closure for inclement weather. Visitors are advised to check for updates or call 410-289-2800 for more information.

Special attractions include the 50-foot Christmas tree, Santa Claus’s reindeer, the Field of Lights, 12 Drummers Drumming, and the Winterfest Ring selfie spot. These displays contribute to a magical and festive atmosphere.

Yes, there are. Shore Craft Beer is hosting a “Let’s Get Lit” Fest on December 7th with hotel packages at the Cambria and wristbands for all ticket-holders that get’s them discounts at bars and restaurants around town all weekend.  Of course, the Ocean City Christmas Parade is a fun holiday event scheduled for December 7.

The Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City, MD, features various attractions such as the 50-foot Christmas tree, Santa Claus’s reindeer, the Field of Lights, 12 Drummers Drumming, and the Winterfest Ring selfie spot.

Tickets for the Winterfest of Lights can be purchased on the Town’s commerce site.  Admission is $6 for guests aged 12 and older, and children aged 11 and younger can enter for free.

This map will help you navigate the 58-acre Northside Park and explore the various attractions.  

Admission to Winterfest of Lights is $6 for guests aged 12 and older. Children aged 11 and younger can enter for free.

Along with the Special Event Zone legislation, which was passed in 2018 by the State of Maryland, legislation passed in early 2020 will allow the Town of Ocean City to continue addressing lawlessness and unruly behavior with stricter fines and jail sentences for the most serious violations. To view the Special Event Zone Bill, visit: oceancitymd.gov/specialeventzone

The Town of Ocean City and the Ocean City Police Department do not make any money from the traffic citations issued. In the state of Maryland, the money from paid District Court traffic citations goes to the Maryland General Fund.

Trailers and oversized vehicles may not be parked on Baltimore Avenue at any time. Parking a trailer or oversized vehicle on any street or paved public lot without a permit is prohibited between May 1 and October 31. Permits are available to registered participants of Cruisin’ Ocean City, OC BikeFest, and Endless Summer Cruisin’ for a fee of $50 from the event organizer. There are three options for parking your trailer in town without a permit.

There are three options for parking your trailer in town without a permit. 1. The West Ocean City Park & Ride has limited free trailer parking available starting at noon on the Friday prior to the Cruisin’ OC, OC BikeFest and Endless Summer Cruisin’ events through noon on the Monday immediately following each event. However, no overnight parking is allowed – Vehicles and trailers will be towed if parked between 3:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. 2. The 100th Street gravel lot also has limited trailer parking for a daily fee that can be paid on site. 3. In addition, you may make arrangements with a private property owner to park on their lot. You may not park on any public street. nn

Not at all. The Town welcomes car enthusiasts 365 days a year, as long as they obey all local and state laws. However, the Town does not welcome the huge, unruly crowds associated with the Pop-up Rally and the disorderly conduct that has resulted from this gathering.

Ocean City typically hosts six authorized Motor Events each year, taking place primarily in the Spring and Fall. These events include Cruisin, the OC Car & Truck Show, OC Bikefest, Jeep Week, Corvette Weekend, and Endless Summer Cruisin. In addition, we have one unauthorized Motor Event, which is commonly referred to by participants as H2Oi. The Town of Ocean City, however, refers to this unauthorized event as a Pop-up Rally event.

The Town of Ocean City works closely with event promoters of authorized Motor Events to assure our residents, visitors and event participants are equally accommodated. Most of the authorized events offer contests, parades and concerts. These additional activities create a family-friendly atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. The Pop-up Rally event, however, has no formal schedule, which results in an enormous amount of traffic and large gatherings in parking lots and sidewalks. In addition, the Pop-up Rally does not have a designated event promoter for the Town of Ocean City to communicate with like the authorized Motor Events do.

Traditionally, the Pop-up Rally event takes place the last week of September. In 2021, we expect it to occur on September 24-26.

Each Motor Event is a little different; however, one thing that can always be expected is heavier traffic, noise and strict enforcement of vehicle laws. Because the safety of our residents, staff and visitors is our number one priority in Ocean City, it’s imperative for motorists to abide by traffic laws and be cautious of heavy pedestrian traffic. In some cases, Ocean City establishes a Special Event Zone, where speeds are lowered and fines are increased for violations.

A Motor Event is a term that is used in Ocean City to describe an event or gathering that brings thousands of vehicles to our resort town. A Motor Event can be authorized in partnership with the Town of Ocean City or can be unauthorized.

The Special Event Zone applies to all of the roads within the corporate limit of the Town of Ocean City. The town limits begin midway on the Route 50 and Route 90 bridges and extend from the inlet to the Delaware State Line. This year, the Special Event Zone is being extended to include all roads in Worcester County. the expectation that they will follow our local laws and ordinances. There is no simple solution to the challenges faced during various Motor Events, but the Town of Ocean City is working hard to find solutions that positively impact everyone.

While some businesses do benefit financially from the Pop-up Rallies, others do not. Some of the businesses that have benefited financially from the Pop-up Rally event still believe that overall the event is not a good fit for our community. Regardless, the Town is focused on the non-monetary concerns our community has expressed. The Town of Ocean City has been working closely with the Chamber of Commerce and the Hotel Motel Restaurant Association to prioritize keeping our community safe.

In April 2018, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan signed the “Special Event Zone” bill into law, allowing authorities in Worcester County to designate Special Event Zones during large events, particularly motor events. The legislation allows officials to lower speed limits in the Special Event Zone. In addition, legislation signed in 2020 allowed for increased penalties for specific motor vehicle violations. Similar to a Construction Zone, violators will face increased fines, or in some cases arrest, if violations occur in a Special Event Zone. Special Event Zones are in place during motor events in Ocean City due to the high volume of motor vehicles and pedestrians on/near the roadways. The zone can be implemented for authorized and unauthorized events to ensure the safety of those in our town.

Ocean City cannot stop people from coming to visit our community; however, we can deter violations through our Special Event Zone. In addition to Special Event Zone legislation, the Town of Ocean City and the Ocean City Police Department are working closely with the State of Maryland, our partners in the business community and participants of the Pop-up Rally event to develop a plan for peace during these events. Our resort community welcomes everyone with

Each Motor Event in Ocean City is different. For residents, the biggest impact on our community comes during the Pop-Up Rally event and Spring Cruisin’. Although the promoters of Spring Cruisin’ have worked very hard to make positive changes to the event, there is still significant traffic congestion. During the Pop-Up Rally, the town recommends staying off the road for the weekend, as residents are safer at home.

If you have concerns regarding your vehicle’s modifications, the Ocean City Police Department’s Traffic Safety Unit has provided two resources that you can check regarding the state of Maryland’s regulations. The first resource is COMAR, and you can visit their website at http://www.dsd.state.md.us/COMAR/title_search/Title_List.aspx. Title 11 is where the majority of the regulations for vehicles can be located. In addition to reviewing COMAR, please review the most current Maryland Transportation Articles/Code 22 at https://casetext.com/statute/code-of- maryland/transportation/title-22-vehicle-laws-equipment-of-vehicles. Both of these resources will cover the laws that apply to vehicles within the state of Maryland.

Yes, the City Council is aware of the economic impact of the Pop-up Rally event. The Pop-up Rally also costs our community more than just money. The Town also pays a substantial cost in staff time and resources to cope with the rally. But perhaps the biggest cost of all is the effect the rally has on the quality of life for our residents and visitors. Its important for car enthusiasts and Pop-Up Rally participants to know that Ocean City welcomes everyone to our resort community, with the expectation that they follow our laws and ordinances in order to keep everyone safe.

Ocean City establishes a Special Event Zone three times each year. The Special Event Zone coincides with Cruisin Ocean City, Endless Summer Cruisin and the Pop-up Rally event. With thousands of motorists on Coastal Highway during these events, the Special Event Zone helps deter motor violations. The lowered speed limit and increased fines and penalties in the Special Event Zone have been successful tools for law enforcement officers during large Motor Events. These types of events draw large crowds of pedestrians and spectators. The Special Event Zone helps to keep our pedestrians safe on the sidewalks and in the designated crosswalks. n

Winterfest of Lights runs from mid-November to New Year’s Eve. Take a look at our Winterfest page for the complete dates and information.

Sunfest takes place in late September. Check out our Sunfest page for updated dates and information.

The Town of Ocean City prides itself on hosting free weekly events throughout the summer to help you enjoy your vacation without blowing your budget. Find a full list here.

• The Beach is free
• Walk & Explore the boardwalk
• View Free Events

The Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City, Maryland is set up in Northside Park.  The address for your navigation system is:   200 125th St, Ocean City, MD 21842 Parking is available inside the park and on the side streets around the park.  You can also take the Ocean City bus from your hotel.  These buses are running every half hour and the ride all day cost is $4.  You can see the real-time location of buses here: https://oct.transloc.com/

This year, 2024, there will be no tram at Winterfest of Lights.  

Yes, pets are welcome on Wednesday evenings at Winterfest of Lights.

Yes, mobility devices, including scooters and powered wheelchairs, are available for rent on-site at $10.00 per two hours. Standard wheelchairs are also available. For rentals, you can contact Scooters-4-Rent.com at (302) 280-6203.

Yes, you can get a cup of hot chocolate, get a picture with Santa Claus, buy arts, crafts and unique gifts.

Yes, the Winterfest of Lights is subject to closure for inclement weather. Visitors are advised to check for updates or call 410-289-2800 for more information.

Special attractions include the 50-foot Christmas tree, Santa Claus’s reindeer, the Field of Lights, 12 Drummers Drumming, and the Winterfest Ring selfie spot. These displays contribute to a magical and festive atmosphere.

Yes, there are. Shore Craft Beer is hosting a “Let’s Get Lit” Fest on December 7th with hotel packages at the Cambria and wristbands for all ticket-holders that get’s them discounts at bars and restaurants around town all weekend.  Of course, the Ocean City Christmas Parade is a fun holiday event scheduled for December 7.

The Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City, MD, features various attractions such as the 50-foot Christmas tree, Santa Claus’s reindeer, the Field of Lights, 12 Drummers Drumming, and the Winterfest Ring selfie spot.

Tickets for the Winterfest of Lights can be purchased on the Town’s commerce site.  Admission is $6 for guests aged 12 and older, and children aged 11 and younger can enter for free.

Yes. The bus is normally free from the Park and Ride in West Ocean City, but during the big festival weekends, the Town charges $4 to ride all day. The schedule is here.

Cruisin’ Ocean City is a celebration of cars – over 3000 hot rods, customs, classics and trucks – in it’s 32nd year.  It includes car shows dotted around Ocean City and the surrounding area as well as entertainment, boardwalk parades, special guests, featured cars, live music, celebrities and more.

There are some spots around town, but we would recommend that you park your car at your hotel and use the bus to get around.  You can also park your car at the West Ocean City Park and Ride and catch the bus into Ocean City. The event promoter has more information on their site.

First, check out the OceanCity.com Cruisin’ Guide.  You can also go to the organizer’s site.  

You can find the complete schedule of events for Cruisin’ 2024 on the organizer’s site.

This map will help you navigate the 58-acre Northside Park and explore the various attractions.  

Admission to Winterfest of Lights is $6 for guests aged 12 and older. Children aged 11 and younger can enter for free.

**The Boardwalk tram is suspended indefinitely** The Boardwalk Tram costs $5.00 per person, per boarding, per one way ride. Although the tram runs every day throughout the summer, it may not maintain its normal schedule during during inclement weather due to safety precautions. For further questions please contact Transportation at 410-723-1606. Summer Boardwalk Tram Hours: May 24 – September 2 2024, 12pm -Midnight/Daily Special Events Boardwalk Tram Hours: Springfest: May 2-5 2024, OC Cruisin’ Weekend: May 16-19, Post Labor Day: September 3-8, Bikefest: September 11-15, Sunfest: Thursday, October 24-27

The White Marlin Open has several rules designed to minimize the number of fish that are actually killed and brought to the scales.  Then, the tournament encourages the anglers to donate their catches to charities in the Ocean City area who help feed those in need.  Catch n Carry processes and flash freezes the fish before distributing the meat to 3 local charities including the Maryland Food Bank.  For more information, you can read this article: https://www.oceancity.com/the-fate-of-fish-at-the-white-marlin-open-in-ocean-city-a-conservation-success-story/

What items are allowed & prohibited at Country Calling? 

(Info from the official Country Calling site)

Guests and their belongings are subject to search upon entry or re-entry. You can help keep the lines moving quickly by leaving large bags at home. The following items are ALLOWED:

• CLEAR bags made up of clear plastic, vinyl, or pvc, and no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″. Small clutch purses and fanny packs with no more than 1 pocket.  Clutch purses no larger than 6″ x 9″ (See Full Bag Policy Below)
• Baby Strollers
• Frisbees
• Binoculars
• Blankets, Sheets, Towels
• Cameras (basic point and shoot consumer-grade cameras) without detachable lenses and other accessories (monopods, selfie sticks, tripods, GoPro mounts, and other attachments are not allowed)
• Empty reusable water bottles and hydration packs (See full bag policy), and plastic or aluminum water bottles
• Sunscreen in non-aerosol containers is allowed in the size of 3.4 ounces or less
• Personal sized hand sanitizer 
• Factory sealed Naloxone/Narcan kit

Prescription Medicine Requirements:

• Anyone needing prescription medicine at the festival must present the pharmacy-labeled container which states the prescription, dosage, and patient name to our medical staff at each entrance gate. Patrons are only allowed a sufficient supply of the prescribed medication for that day.
• Medicines needing to be inhaled or smoked are prohibited unless in a prescribed inhaler.
• Over the counter medications are allowed in a sufficient supply for the day. Bottle contents will be verified by medical personnel at the entry gates.

The following items are PROHIBITED:

• Any bags that are NOT CLEAR bags made up of clear plastic, vinyl, or pvc, and are larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″. Any Small clutch purses and fanny packs with more than 1 pocket.  Clutch purses that are larger than 6″ x 9″ (See Full Bag Policy Below)
• Aerosol containers, including sunscreen and personal beauty products. NOTE: Sunscreen in non-aerosol containers is allowed in the size of 3.4 ounces or less
• Coolers of any kind. (Exceptions may be made for medical use)
• Framed backpacks, multiple pocket back packs and any pack that is not aligned with the allowed backpacks above. (See Full Bag Policy Below)
• Any and all professional audio recording equipment
• Professional cameras and professional recording (photo, video, audio) equipment (NO large professional detachable zoom lenses, stands, monopods, tripods, attachment sticks (selfie sticks) or other commercial equipment.
• Any and all professional video equipment. No video recording will be allowed
• Drones or any other remote flying device
• Hammocks
• Glass containers of any kind
• Illegal and Illicit substances of any kind
• Outside food or beverage (including alcohol) of any kind
• Umbrellas
• Pets (except service animals)
• Selfie sticks
• Skateboards, scooters, bicycles, wagons, carts or any personal motorized vehicles
• Tents, canopies, or shade structures of any kind
• Unauthorized/unlicensed vendors are not allowed. No unauthorized solicitation and materials including handbills, flyers, stickers, beach balls, give-aways, samples, etc.
• Weapons or explosives of any kind
• Fireworks
• Large chains or spiked jewelry
• Bicycles inside festival grounds (free parking is available near festival entrance)
• Carts of any kind (including Red Wagons)
• Chairs of any kind
• Smoking of any kind, including vaping

FULL BAG POLICY:

• ALL bags will be searched before entry.
• Small clutch purses and fanny packs that are 6″ x 9″ or smaller do not need to be clear, but can have no more than one pocket.
• All other bags larger than 6″ x 9″ must be smaller than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ and clear.
• Hydration packs are allowed and do not need to be clear, but must be emptied of all liquid and have no more than two pockets in addition to the one holding the water reservoir.

   *SUBJECT TO CHANGE

 

 

Public Transportation

Public Transportation is available on both the Ocean City’s Beach Bus that travels north and southbound along Coastal Highway and the West Ocean City Shuttle to and from the West Ocean City Park and Ride. All Ocean City municipal buses are accessible.

 

Parking If you are driving from outside of Ocean City, parking options are available at the West Ocean City Park and Ride and at both the Ocean City Convention Center Parking Lot and the 100th Street Municipal Parking Lot. There will be Public Transportation available to and from the festival from these locations. Accessible parking is available at all municipal parking lots for patrons who have Placards. Be advised there are no parking options for the festival from N. Division Street south to the inlet. Addresses for the lots listed above are as follows: West Ocean City Park and Ride 12848 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, MD 21842 Ocean City Convention Center Parking Lot 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842 100th Street Municipal Parking Lot 10267 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842 Accessible pick-up/drop-off The Accessible drop off and pick up point is available at 1 N. Division St (east of Baltimore Ave.).   Accessible Festival Entrance There are two entrances at the festival. One located at the intersection of the Boardwalk and Talbor Street and the other located at the intersection of Boardwalk and S Division Street (next to Dumser’s Dairyland). There are specially designated lanes at each Festival entrance for patrons with disabilities. Look for the accessible signs above the entrance lanes or ask a staff member to direct you to the lanes.   ​​Accessibility Services Center The Access Center will be located at the main Guest Services & Information tent located just inside the festival entrance located off of the main Boardwalk and South Division Street. Our Access Center services include, but are not limited to:

• Answers to questions specific to the Accessibility Program
• Information relevant to our patrons with disabilities
• Requests for accessibility wristbands
• Power outlets for recharging powered mobility devices
• Programming information in large print.
• Assisted Listening Devices (ALDs) available upon request

Wristbands and Accessible Viewing Areas Country Calling works to make sure that all festival fans have an enjoyable experience. All Festival attendees must have an event ticket for admission into the Festival, and purchasing a separate accessible ticket is not necessary. Upon arrival, please visit the Accessibility services Center for information on the accessibility wristband program. Patrons can request an accessibility wristband at the Access Center. This wristband is to show Festival staff that the patron plus one companion is eligible to enter the accessible viewing areas for patrons with mobility needs or the Deaf and Hard of Hearing areas. The accessibility wristband is non-transferable and is good for the entirety of the show. Note: The wristband does not guarantee a spot in these areas. Please note that both viewing areas have a limited capacity and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. We cannot save or reserve seats or areas on the platform. Once it’s determined that an accessible viewing area is filled to capacity (including adequate aisle space for entering and exiting the area), the area will not be available for additional entry. Signage will be placed at the Festival identifying all viewing areas including accessible viewing areas for patrons with mobility needs as well as a designated area for patrons who are Deaf / Hard of Hearing. Accessible viewing areas are marked with the International Symbol of Access on the Festival Map. To see the designated accessible viewing locations, please visit the Accessibility services center for a map of the festival grounds, visit the map on the official Festival website.   Viewing Area Wristband Policies

• Accessibility wristbands to access Accessible seated viewing platforms and/or Deaf / Hard of Hearing viewing areas are good for the whole weekend. 
• Do NOT remove your wristband for the entire duration of the event. If your accessibility program wristband is damaged or removed, it can be replaced at the Access Center, but you must bring the old wristband to the accessibility services center.
• One companion will be admitted with each guest with an accessible viewing area wristband.
• If a guest wants to switch their companion, please notify a guest services representative.
• All festival attendees must have an event ticket for admission into the Festival.

Patrons with Mobility Limitations The Festival is wheelchair accessible but is a large venue with great distances between activities and attractions. It is outdoors and across city streets and pathways. Some travel is over natural terrain and terrain designed for motor vehicles. If it should rain, there could be mud. The Festival does not provide personal care, golf cart rides, or push service of any kind or wheelchairs for rent or loan. Wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and three or four-wheeled scooters are allowed only for use by patrons with mobility disabilities. For safety reasons, requests to use other power-driven mobility devices will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Powered wheelchairs may also be charged at the Access Center. Patrons should bring all cords and accessories needed to charge their devices. Chargers must use a 110-volt, 20-amp circuit. Accessible portable toilets are available at the ends of each bank of portable toilets throughout the Festival venue.   American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreted Performances

The Festival provides many American Sign Language (ASL) interpreted music performances for patrons who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Please email access@countrycallingfestival.comto request a specific performance be interpreted. 

We ask that you make a request no later than September 4th, 2024 to allow adequate time to prepare. We will make every effort to accommodate, but cannot guarantee, requests not timely submitted. 

A schedule of interpreted performances will be posted here.   

Special Dietary Needs and Prescription Medicine

Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the Festival, but if a patron has special medical dietary restrictions, this can be allowed on a case by case basis, please Email access@countrycallingfestival.com for more information. 

Patrons are allowed to bring their medically necessary materials and medications into the Festival, provided that all medicine has a prescription label with the patron’s name. Our personnel at the entry gates will verify the contents of any medically necessary materials. Out of concern for the festival staff who handle the trash, please dispose of your medical waste and syringes in the proper disposal, which is located at the medical tent. Please see the official Festival map for the location of the medical tent. Please do not dispose of these items in other trash bins at the Festival.

 

Service Animals 

Pets are not allowed within the Festival grounds. However, miniature horses and dogs, which have been trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability, are welcome. If accompanied by a service animal, you will be provided a Patron Notice of Responsibility for a Service Animal or you can request the form in advance from access@countrycallingfestival.com. Please enter through the accessible lane at either entrance.

 

Have Questions About Our ADA Access & Accommodations?

For any questions, please email: access@countrycallingfestival.com

(provided by Country Calling)

Yes! Reserve you locker in advance of the festival here.   *There will be limited number of lockers available for rent the day of the festival. 

 

Festival patrons can leave and re-enter as often as they would like until 7pm (local time). Patrons will scan their wristband and pass through security each time they re-enter the site.