Save money by booking your vacation early. Here’s how.

Ocean City Hotels

Kristin

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January 2, 2018

Everyone wants to save money when they’re on vacation. When you plan your summer trip far enough in advance, the easiest way to save money is by booking your hotel months ahead. Here are some of our favorite “book early” specials, so when summer rolls around you’ll have that much extra cash for a bucket of Thrasher’s or a round of mini golf.

Commander Hotel & Suites

Early Seagull Savings! Rate Code: ERA3 – Stay 3 nights and get 15% off. Weekdays only (Sunday – Thursday). Offer valid until March 31, 2018. Black Out Dates Apply. Rate Code: ERA5 – Stay 5 nights and get 20% off. Weekdays only (Sunday – Thursday). Offer valid until March 31, 2018. Black Out Dates Apply.

Oceanfront Suites & Cabanas Ocean City MD | Commander Hotel

The Commander Hotel, Oceanfront on the Boardwalk in Ocean City, Maryland. Suites and efficiencies available. Call today!

Grand Hotel and Spa

“We are running an Advance Purchase discount between 5%-35%.” *Full payment at reservation time required. Non-refundable cancellation policy apply. Discounts are subject to change. Black-out dates apply. Not valid with any other discounts, packages or group rates.

Vacation Packages for Ocean City, Maryland | Grand Hotel & Spa

The Grand Hotel & Spa welcomes you to enjoy our convenient services and contemporary accommodations at affordable rates by taking advantage of our hotel specials, vacation packages and current deals. Whether you’re traveling to Maryland for a family vacation, a weekend escape or if you are traveling here on business, we have a deal, package or special that will meet your travel needs and budget.

Boardwalk Hotel Group (Howard Johnson Oceanfront Plaza, Howard Johnson Oceanfront Inn, Days Inn Oceanfront)

Book Early to receive 10% off weekends and 25% off weekdays per night, plus get a a FREE bucket of Thrasher’s Fries! *Offer valid on reservations booked now through April 15, 2018. Certain blackout dates may not be available for discounts.

Scroll down on linked page to “Book Early & Save Big!” under “Deals.”

Deals/Packages | Ocean City Boardwalk Hotels | MD Boardwalk Hotel Group

Accommodations at our Howard Johnson Oceanfront Plaza Hotel 3 Course Dinner New Year’s Eve at Brother’s Bistro Live Music starting at 7:30pm Champagne Toast at Midnight New Year’s Day Brunch from 9am-12pm Late check out on New Year’s Day (1pm) Cash bar All Taxes and Gratuity included 3 night package (Arrive Friday, December 29th) $430 per couple 2 night package (Arrive Saturday, December 30th) $350 per couple Click here to View our Menu

Flamingo Motel

Ocean City Maryland Motel | Ocean City MD Hotels | Flamingo Motel

Discount Bookings 20% Off Reservations Booked In December and January (promo code WINT) Reservations must be booked by 1/31/2018 55th Anniversary Specials $55 Special Anniversary Weekends (4/21, 5/12).

Ocean 1 Hotel & Suites

Book your 2018 reservation between now and March 31, 2018 and save 15% off your stay. Some restrictions may apply. Offer may not be combined with any other discounts.

Specials | Ocean City MD Hotel | Ocean 1 Hotel & Suites

Ocean 1 Hotel & Suites 101 N. First Street Ocean City, MD 21842 410-289-6881 reservations@ocean1hotel.com

Looking forward to 2018 in Ocean City

Photoblogs

Kristin

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December 27, 2017

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The landscape of Ocean City never changes too much, but like every town, businesses come and go year by year. 2017 in OC was no exception. Here’s all the big things that went down in 2017, followed by–drumroll, please!–all the exciting things we can expect from Ocean City in 2018.

From 2017…

As far as hotels go, the Monte Carlo added an oceanfront location on 11th street. The Crystal Beach on the boardwalk at 25th street expanded to include more rooms, a new pool and a new fitness center. The Residence Inn just off route 90, as well as the Fairfield Inn on 25th street bayside, were new additions to the Ocean City skyline.

Let’s be honest though, what’s most exciting is when new restaurants are added to the Ocean City business directory. 28th Street Pit & Pub added a second location in North Ocean City. Totally new eateries included Shotti’s Point at the 35th street surf shop K-Coast, Dry Dock 28 by the owners of Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon, Rare & Rye in the La Quinta Inn on 32nd street, The Cluckin’ Crab on 15th street, Vietnamese eatery Pho-Char Grill on 118th street bayside and the Shugar Shack on 28th street for all things sweet. Most recently, Dry 85 and Red Red Wine Bar opened side-by-side on 48th street.

Attractions-wise, Ocean City’s Escape Room expanded to include more themed rooms, and 146th street mini golf/arcade hangout Game Room expanded to include laser tag. Jolly Roger added a few new rides, including The Kraken on the pier, as well as additions to SpeedWorld and the Splash Mountain Water Park.

Upcoming hotels

Hyatt Place Oceanfront Hotel – Atlantic Avenue – slated to open spring 2018. Aloft Hotel – 45th Street Village. Homewood Suites – 67th Street. 125th Street – Country Inn & Suites. Park Place Plaza and Jewelers – new location in West Ocean City.

Upcoming restaurants

Denny’s – 62nd street – taking the place of the old JR’s Ribs. Albertino’s – 131st street – a brick oven eatery with craft beer by The Crab Bag. Tequila Mockingbird – new, second location opening in West OC. Dolle’s Candyland – new location in West OC. New coffee shop coming in – Uptown Shopping Center in North Ocean City.

Downtown Ocean City

Ocean City’s Downtown area will be going through a few changes this year, too. Here’s what you can expect, courtesy of Ocean City Development Corporation Executive Director Glenn Irwin:

Fat Daddy’s on Baltimore Avenue will be adding a bar in the adjacent commercial bay. The bar will be called The Treehouse and is expected to open spring of 2018.

Due to the extensive renovation to occur at the Taylor House building at the corner of S. Baltimore Avenue and Talbot Street, the India Emporium will be relocating across the street to 107 S. Baltimore Ave. The India Emporium has operated as a retail store in downtown Ocean City for 40 years.

The Town of Ocean City will be constructing a new tram facility at St. Louis Avenue and 2nd Street. This new facility is to be constructed and completed in 2018. Once this new facility is completed, the existing tram facility at S. Philadelphia Avenue and 2nd Street will be demolished and parking will be added at the site.

The OCDC and the Town of Ocean City will be working on the 2018 music program at Sunset Park. This free music is provided every Thursday evening in July and August.

The site plan has been approved for the new mixed use development to be constructed at 16 Baltimore Ave. This project will include a first floor commercial space and three floors of employee housing. Construction is expected to commence this spring.

2018’s big event dates

January – 1: Penguin Swim, Mayor’s New Year’s Day Concert.

February – 9-11: Wool and Fiber Expo. 23-25: Reach the Beach cheerleading competition. 24: Love on Tap.

March – 9-11: Ocean City Film Festival. 17: St. Patrick’s Day Parade. 30: Easter Kids’ Fun Fair and Arts & Crafts Show.

April – 8: Ocean City Bridal Show. 15-29: Spring Restaurant Week. 27-29: Maryland International Kite Expo.

May – 3-6: Springfest. 12: White Marlin Festival. 17-20: Cruisin’ Ocean City.

Stunt Plane OC Airshow — Ocean City Air Show

June – 16-17: Air Show.

July – 4: Fourth of July concert and fireworks.

August – 6-11: White Marlin Open. 8-12: Artists Paint OC Plein Air. 23-26: Jeep Week. 26-Sept. 9: Hotel Week.

September – 13-16: BikeFest. 20-23: Sunfest, Sunfest Kite Festival. 20-21: Sand Castle Home Tour. 28-29: Wine on the Beach.

October – 4-7: Endless Summer Cruisin.’ 14-28: Fall Restaurant Week. 20: OCtberfest Halloween Parade. 20: Howl-O-Ween Pet Parade. 20-21, 27-28: Halloween Beach Maze. 27: Great Pumpkin Race. 28: Halloween Spook-Out Party.

November – 15-Dec. 31: Winterfest of Lights. 17: Light Up Downtown Festival. 23-25: Holiday Shoppers Fair.

December – 1: Christmas Parade. 5: Pizza with Santa. 7-8: Holiday Artisan Fair. 31: New Year’s Eve celebration and fireworks.

Ocean City Year in Review

Kristin

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December 26, 2017

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We did it. We have — almost — made it through 2017.

For the country, and rest of the world, 2017 was tumultuous, to say the least. But we’re not going to think about that right now. In Ocean City, the beach and boardwalk were business as usual, and Ocean City remained the same beautiful resort town you know and love. There were a few minor upheavals–at risk of reopening a whole can of worms, remember H2Oi?–but for the most part, life was same old, same old in Ocean City, Maryland. Just the way we like it.

Here’s to reminiscing, and to another great year in Ocean City.

January: Snowstorm!

What better way to start the new year than with a snow-covered Ocean City? The first snowstorm of the winter covered the beach in about nine inches of snow, and gusts of wind reached 25 miles per hour.

Top 10 Ocean City videos from the Jan. 7 storm – Ocean City Videos

Over the weekend, members of the OceanCity.com staff as well as many of our loyal readers got out and shared some videos of the snow. If you’re still snowed in (or if you wish you were) take a look as some of the awesome sights we had in town this weekend.

February: Love is in the air

Valentine’s Day in 2017, like every year, was most romantically spent on the Shore. Here’s how a few Ocean City-loving couples shared the love with us.

Ocean City couples photos, just in time for February – Ocean City Maryland

Getting photos together is one of the grandest part of the Ocean City vacation experience. In what follows we’ll take a look at some of the couples photos you guys have submitted over the years.

March: Exploring the islands

There’s still a bite in the late-winter air by the time March rolls around, but the off-season is the best time to explore Assateague and Chincoteague. They’re all but deserted, making March one of the best times of year to do some wandering around in peace.

Chincoteague: The other horse island – OceanCity.com

Spend the weekend in Chincoteague. You’ll be happy you did. Sometimes it is so easy to get wrapped up in the Assateague ponies we can forget that Chincoteague Island is only a few miles farther as the crow flies, but those of us who aren’t crows have to make the 45 minute drive west, then south then east to wind up on Chincoteague Island.

April: Ocean City goes to the birds

If you’re a birdwatcher on the Eastern Shore, April is always the most exciting time of year. That’s when Delmarva Birding Weekend happens, when early migrations can be spotted all over the peninsula.

Fans flock to annual Birding Weekend – OceanCity.com

Spring has sprung and birds of a feather are flocking together for the annual Delmarva Birding Weekend later this month! The 22nd annual Spring Delmarva Birding Weekend is set for April 27-30, 2017, allowing birdwatchers to spot a variety of early-arriving migrating birds like warblers, shorebirds, waterfowl and raptors in several hot spots.

May: New ways to play in the sand

The beach’s first-ever playground was unveiled at a ribbon-cutting ceremony early in the month of May. The playground on North Division Street is complete with three slides, monkey bars, an ice cream stand and a map of the United States

Visit the first Ocean City beach playground – OceanCity.com

The Ocean City beach playground is just the latest in a long tradition of free things to do in Ocean City. After months of anticipation Ocean City officially opened its first playground on the Boardwalk this week with the snip of a ribbon in spring of 2017.

June: Beachgoers bare all

Remember this controversy? The onset of summer saw an issue that was soon forgotten almost as aggressively as it was argued over. In June, the City Council passed an ordinance banning female toplessness in Ocean City.

Should toplessness be allowed in Ocean City? The town responds – OceanCity.com

“The Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office received a request last summer from a woman who believed it was her constitutional right to be bare-chested on Ocean City’s beach. At that time, the State’s Attorney reached out to the Maryland Attorney General’s Office for an opinion on the matter, which we are still anxiously awaiting.

July: A wake-up call for Assateague visitors

Things were going so well as mid-summer hit, until one Assateague mare died after getting into a camper’s dog food. This headline was a sad reminder to Assateague campers to keep their food away from the reach of wild ponies.

Don’t feed dog food to Assateague Horses – OceanCity.com

When visiting beautiful, wild Assateague Island, remember not to feed the famous wild horses and to cover up all food on campgrounds! Assateague Island National Seashore officials say a young mare died last week after munching on some dog food. The seven-year-old mare, identified as N2BHS-AI but nicknamed Chama Wingapo, was found dead in a …

August: Total eclipse of the sun

Everyone in Ocean City was staring at the sky on Aug. 21, when we were able to see the moon eclipse the sun for the first time in decades (with special eyewear, that is).

Watching the solar eclipse in Ocean City + your eclipse pics

It’s not uncommon to see crowds of people donned in sunglasses walking the Ocean City boardwalk, but it is a little strange when almost every. person. there. has shades on. But Monday was an event and an occasion that no one wanted to miss, and that meant wearing protective eye gear, or else staring down into a cardboard box.

September: Festival season

As summer winds down, people need more of an excuse to stay in Ocean City. That’s probably why the month of September sees so many festivals, including Sunfest, Bikefest and the Kite Festival.

Fall festival season picks up as summer winds down

There was once a time when Labor Day weekend marked the death knell of the summer season in Ocean City, Maryland. It marked the transformation from bustling tourist town to boring ghost town, and putting an end to the majority of excitement and activities as period of winter hibernation crept in.

October: OCtoberfest!

OCtoberfest seems to be getting bigger every year, and 2017 was no exception. There was the beach maze, the great pumpkin race and countless Halloween parties, but most importantly, there were dogs in costume.

15 photos from the OCtoberfest Howl-O-Ween Pet Parade

There’s a ton of fun events lined up each year for OCtoberfest, but one parade down the boardwalk is an especially howlin’ good time for humans and pets alike: Ocean City’s annual Howl-O-Ween pet parade. This year’s parade was, unsurprisingly, almost completely made up of dogs.

November: The beach gets a pick-me-up

Gotta have that sand. In November, Governor Larry Hogan, along with Col. Edward Chamberlayne of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and other public officials held a press conference on the necessity of Ocean City beach renourishment.

Beach Renourishment Keeps Ocean City Rolling – Ocean City News

Governor Larry Hogan, Baltimore District Commander Col. Edward Chamberlayne of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Maryland Secretary of Natural Resources Mark Belton, among other public officials, met for a press conference on the 94th street dunes crossing Monday to highlight an ongoing beach renourishment program that’s been impacting Ocean City since the early ’90s.

December: A time to reflect

The last month of the year was somehow just as busy as all the others, with all the traditional Ocean City holiday events like the Christmas Parade and one new event which brought hundreds of cosplayers to the Grand Hotel for a day, the inaugural Ocean City Comic Con. Really, though, December is meant for reflecting on the year behind us and looking ahead to see what the new year will bring, and what can be improved upon. It’s also meant for peaceful walks in the snow and taking a moment to breathe after another lively, exciting and fun year in Ocean City.

A snowy walk around the Ocean City Inlet

These photos were taken the Sunday after the first snow of the season on Friday, Dec. 8, which was followed by a little more on Saturday. I woke up on Sunday morning, looked out the window and immediately knew I’d have to bundle up fast and head out to take pictures before the snow melted or otherwise ended up covered in street sludge and general dirt, trash and cigarette butts.

Merry Christmas from the Ocean City elves

Photoblogs

Kristin

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December 25, 2017

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If you follow us on Facebook, then you’ve probably seen some of the hi-jinx the visiting elves have gotten into. They finished their toy-making a little early this year and came all the way from the North Pole to vacation in Ocean City, Maryland. They said it was much warmer than they’re used to, but still pretty chilly–next year they said they might hit the Florida Keys. (Just kidding! They’ll be back in Ocean City for more adventures, don’t worry.)

The elves on the shelf originally belonged to a now-middle schooler who named them Veronica, Dash and the reindeer “Mr. Swag.” Here are a few photos documenting their trip this year.

Ocean City elves art league — Day 1: Their first stop was the Ocean City Center for the Arts, where they perused the local art and did some last-minute Christmas shopping for their elf friends.

Ocean City elves winterfest — Day 2: Winterfest! The elves had a wonderful time at Winterfest of Lights and said the pavilion reminded them of Santa’s Workshop.

Ocean City elves beach — Day 3: Dash got into a little bit of trouble when Veronica buried him in the sand. Luckily, they weren’t too close to the ocean.

Ocean City elves inlet — Day 4: Reading up on the wildlife around Ocean City and enjoying the gorgeous morning view.

Ocean City elves menorah — Day 5: On the last day of Hanukkah, the elves took a picture with the light-up menorah on the Boardwalk.

Ocean City elves trimper's — Day 6: They were disappointed to learn that the rides were closed, and are considering taking another vacation this summer.

Ocean City elves Ripley's — Day 7: The Ripley’s tire! It’s a pretty big climb for tiny elves to make, but they eventually made it up there.

Ocean City elves shark — Day 8: Wandering around the Life-Saving Station Museum, the elves realized they’d never seen a shark back at Santa’s Workshop.

Ocean City elves pier — Also Christmas Eve: Relaxing under the pier.

Ocean City elves bench — Christmas: A Santa impostor on the Boardwalk! Mr. Swag the reindeer came to take Veronica and Dash back to the North Pole so they could begin making toys for next Christmas. They were happy to get back to work, but sad to have to leave Ocean City behind. It’s their favorite vacation destination, after all.

Town of Ocean City celebrates holidays and the New Year

Press Releases

OceanCity.com

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December 21, 2017

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Ocean City, Maryland – (December 20, 2017): It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! While the holiday spirit has been circulating through town for several weeks, the Town of Ocean City is reminding citizens that town administrative offices will be closed on Friday, December 22, and Monday, December 25, in observance of the Christmas holiday. There will be no trash collection on Monday, December 25. Monday’s trash will be picked up on Tuesday, December 26.

Also beginning December 26, the Town of Ocean City will once again provide a FREE Christmas tree drop-off site at the 100^th Street Municipal Parking Lot. Trees can be placed in the northeast corner of the 100th Street lot December 26 through January 15. Please remove all tinsel, ornaments and other non-wooden items from the tree. Trees collected at the site are taken to the county landfill where they are recycled.

Administrative & transportation hours

Citizens should also be reminded that Town of Ocean City administrative offices will be closed on Monday, January 1, in observance of the New Year’s holiday. No trash collection will be offered on Monday, January 1, however; Monday’s trash will be collected on Tuesday, January 2. Also modifying their normal schedule for the holiday is the Town of Ocean City’s Transportation Department, who will offer FREE bus service from 6 a.m. on December 31 to 6 a.m. on January 1. On December 31, bus services will run every 20 minutes from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and every 10 minutes from 6 p.m. until 4 a.m. on January 1. Buses on New Year’s Day will also run every 20 minutes from 4 a.m. until 7 a.m., at which time they will resume a normal winter service schedule of every 40 minutes.

New bus locator app

With a new year comes new and improved service, as Ocean City is celebrating the introduction of the highly anticipated bus locator application. Debuting on New Year’s Eve, the enhanced service will allow bus patrons to view real-time location of busses with the TransLoc Rider app. Available for both iOS and Android, users of the app can watch Ocean City buses moving in real time, as well get an accurate arrival prediction of busses to their exact location via the app’s text messaging feature. Further, the TransLoc Rider app allows users to set favorite routes, get personal alerts and ultimately makes transit more accessible and convenient for patrons.

New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day

Along with free bus services and a new bus locator app, the Town of Ocean City will be hosting a FREE fireworks show on New Year’s Eve to celebrate the beginning of 2018 and the conclusion of the 25^th Annual Winterfest of Lights. The show will begin promptly at midnight and will be accompanied by musical entertainment, warm hot chocolate (for a small fee) and the opportunity to ride the Winterfest of Lights prior to midnight. Hours for Winterfest will be extended until 12 a.m. to allow visitors to travel through the winter paradise of lights.

The New Year’s Eve festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. inside the Winterfest Pavilion, with the celebration continuing on until midnight at Northside Park. For more information about the Winterfest of Lights and the New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show, please visit www.ococean.com/events.

Last but not least, the festivities continue on New Year’s Day as Mayor Rick Meehan and members of the Ocean City council treat residents and visitors to a FREE concert at the breathtaking Performing Arts Center. After a brief meet and greet with Ocean City elected officials and participating community partners, the 2018 New Year’s Day Concert will feature performances by Bryan Russo and Nadjah Nicole from NBC’s Emmy Award winning TV show The Voice. Scheduled from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on New Year’s Day, residents and visitors are invited to meet the Mayor and City Council members from 1 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. After the meet and greet, the Performing Arts Center doors will open for seating and the concert will start promptly at 1:45 p.m. with Russo opening the show. Tickets will not be issued, as seating will be first come first serve. For more information, please contact Jessica Waters at 410.289.8967

For more information about Town of Ocean City services and holiday closings, please visit http://oceancitymd.gov.

Christmas tree drop-off sites in Worcester County

Press Releases

OceanCity.com

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December 21, 2017

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Worcester County offers Christmas tree recycling to residents — The Solid Waste Division of Worcester County will host its annual collection of Christmas trees through Jan. 31, 2018. Area residents can drop off Christmas trees at the Central Landfill in Newark and the Berlin, Pocomoke, and Snow Hill Homeowners Convenience Centers at no cost.

Businesses and organizations that sold trees will not be permitted to drop off trees at the convenience centers, but may take them to the Central Landfill where applicable tipping fees will be assessed.

The trees will be ground into mulch for use at the Central Landfill. Remember, you can make a difference by recycling. For more info, contact Recycling Coordinator Mike McClung at 410-632-3177.

Embracing the season

Jennifer Sabini Evans

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December 21, 2017

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Using the winter to your advantage in planning a wedding. By Angie

Along with this amazing time of year, celebrating the holidays, comes the Winter Wedding Season! What an incredible time of year to have a wedding. This time of year offers so much beauty, grace and a bounty of decor options from mother nature. Everywhere we look we see natural textures, colors and greenery that can be use to create a magical setting suitable for the perfect wedding decor.

Texture is always an important part of any design — for example, the texture of the pine cone is simply lovely in the way the tiers unfold and offer themselves to a dip of color or paint. The tips of the pine cones could be a metallic silver or gold, or simply white. Either way, the pine cone can bring beauty to any winter wedding decor.

The stillness of the earth when it is covered in white by a fresh snow is more than pure — it’s graceful. White is one of my favorite colors to use in decorating. It’s fresh, clean and elegant. What a better time of year to take advantage of this color. There is nothing more elegant than the color white! It can create the most simple of statements for a wedding day, and at the the same time, the most elegant of statements as it did for my special bride and groom Sarah and Kyle Derrickson. I created a white backdrop of their wedding logo from all white roses and then infused with white naked tree branches with crystal strings and white fur trim. Simply beautiful!

Sarah and Kyle's Wedding — Photo of Sarah and Kyle’s wedding by Kimberly Tucker Photography.

I absolutely love incorporating the natural wood elements, greens and red berries in winter decor for weddings. To simply float holly with berries in a clear votive vase with a floating candle is nothing less than stunning. My advice to all who may be planning a winter wedding is to go out and take advantage of what nature is offering you! Weather your decor is simple or extreme, this time of year brings an abundance of materials to use to make it happen.

Thank you for reading our blog and I wish you all a most memorable holiday and winter wedding season!

Some holiday lights you won’t find at Winterfest

Photoblogs

Kristin

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December 21, 2017

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Everyone who visits Ocean City between late November and Dec. 31 is mostly here to see Winterfest of Lights. And for good reason — with hot chocolate in a heated pavilion, Christmas carols played from the trams and more and more lights added to the displays each year, every person in the mid-Atlantic region should probably visit Winterfest at least once in their lifetime. But there’s even more to see in Ocean City than the thousands of lights at Winterfest. Just take a drive downtown.

In 2012, the Ocean City Downtown Association thought there should be a little light in downtown OC, too, and so the annual Light Up Downtown Festival was born. Unfortunately, the Festival was cancelled this year due to high winds, but the lights downtown, around the Inlet and at Sunset Park are shining bright nonetheless.

Jolly Roger christmas lights — But before hitting downtown, a brief stop at 29th street: Jolly Roger Amusement Park is super decked out for the holidays.

Ocean City nativity lights — Driving further down Coastal Highway is Ocean City’s Ocean Bowl Skate Park, and a beautiful nativity scene in the field next door.

Ocean City snowman lights — A few blocks later and you’re downtown! This waving snowman is the unofficial downtown OC greeter.

Ocean City lifeguard chair lights — No lifeguard, but a wreath in the chair.

Ocean City coast guard lights — Here, some of the lights in front of the Ocean City U.S. Coast Guard Station.

ocean city trimpers lights — Looking down the lit-up fence by Trimper’s rides.

Hanukkah lights ocean city — Dedicated Hanukkah lights between the boardwalk and the Inlet parking lot.

After putting this photoblog together, I went on Instagram and saw that the Dispatch had done something similar. For better pictures than mine, taken by photographer Chris Parypa, check out the post on their Facebook.

Help keep Salisbury’s National Folk Festival free

Press Releases

OceanCity.com

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December 19, 2017

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Salisbury, MD – The National Folk Festival in Salisbury, Maryland, is encouraging individuals and businesses to take advantage of the opportunity to make an end-of-year contribution. All donations submitted before December 31, 2017 may be deducted from 2017 taxes. The festival is FREE TO THE PUBLIC, and the funds needed to present this extraordinary celebration without charge come from a combination of public and private grants, corporate sponsorships, and individual contributions. Help keep the National Folk Festival FREE for all by donating today.

Donations may be submitted through the National Folk Festival website at www.nationalfolkfestivalmd.com or by using the ‘donate’ button located on the National Folk Festival’s Facebook page @NFFSby

“Donating to the Festival is my way of giving back to my community. I plan on making a tax-deductible donation every year,” said Caroline O’Hare, Local Manager of the National Folk Festival. “I don’t have the ability to donate a large sum of money, but I know every little bit helps.”

There are only 2 weeks left to make a tax-deductible donation for the 2017 tax year.

The National Folk Festival will begin its residency in Salisbury in 2018. The annual, three-day event, produced by the National Council for the Traditional Arts in partnership with the City of Salisbury and a host of others, will take place September 7th, 8th, and 9th in Downtown Salisbury. Over the course of its annual 3-day run, the National Folk Festival will present an exciting and diverse panoply of music, dance and cultural traditions from across America.

For more information on the National Folk Festival, go to www.nationalfolkfestivalmd.com

About the National Folk Festival

Since it was first presented in St. Louis in 1934, the National Folk Festival, the NCTA’s flagship event, has celebrated the roots, richness and variety of American culture.

Championed in its early years by Eleanor Roosevelt, it was the first event of national stature to present the arts of many nations, races, and languages on equal footing. It was also the first to present to the public musical forms such as the blues, Cajun music, a polka band, Tex-Mex conjunto, Peking Opera, and many others. Today, the National is an exuberant traveling festival, produced by the NCTA in partnership with communities around the country that embraces the diverse cultural expressions that define us as a people in the 21st century.

About the National Council for the Traditional Arts (NCTA)

A leading non-profit in the field, the National Council for the Traditional Arts (NCTA), is dedicated to the presentation and documentation of folk and traditional arts in the U.S. Stressing excellence and authenticity, the NCTA presents the nation’s finest traditional artists in major festivals, tours, concerts, workshops, demonstrations, exhibitions, media productions, school programs, cross-cultural exchanges and other activities. It works in partnership with American communities to establish new, sustainable traditional arts events that deliver lasting social, cultural and economic benefits. Over 6,000 hours of the NCTA’s archival audio recordings dating from the 1930s are permanently housed at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress. The NCTA champions the interests of folk and traditional artists and organizations in the arena of public policy.

For more information about the NCTA, go to http://www.ncta-usa.org

About the City of Salisbury, Maryland

Founded in 1732, Salisbury is the county seat of Wicomico County, a place where John Smith touched land in 1608 during his exploration of the Chesapeake Bay. Situated on Maryland’s historic Eastern Shore at the crossroads of the Delmarva Peninsula, Salisbury is now one of the region’s largest cities, and serves as the capital of the Eastern Shore, a rural area defined by its agricultural and maritime traditions, landscapes and industries. The Chesapeake Bay is central to this distinctive identity. Though a relatively small city, Salisbury is the geographic and economic hub of one of the nation’s fastest-growing Metropolitan Statistical Areas. Led by a dynamic mayor, the City of Salisbury is working to build its reputation as an arts and culture destination, and is aligning its downtown development and revitalization efforts with the arts. Salisbury believes hosting the National Folk Festival is the perfect catalyst to further a cultural renaissance and urban renewal.

Find more information about Salisbury, Maryland at http://www.salisbury.md

A look back at Ocean City’s Best of 2017

BEST OF OCEAN CITY

Kristin

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December 18, 2017

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We announced the winners back in the early summer, which is when we always close the polls and collect the votes, but here they are again in case you missed them the first time.

Our Best of Ocean City is the only “best of”-type event in town that’s not dependent on advertiser input–the winners reflect how Ocean City lovers really feel about all the local restaurants, bars, activities and shops around. If you don’t like the results–or just want to add your own two cents (which you should)–be sure to…

Vote for the Best of Ocean City 2018!

Contest time

Ocean City Fat Daddys — The “Best Of” wall at Fat Daddy’s.

Our team has just gone out and delivered all of the signs and certificates to the 2017 winners, so hopefully when you stop by one of these joints in the coming year you’ll see the “Best Of” sign hanging proudly on the wall!

If you see one between now and the time we announce our 2018 winners this Memorial Day, take a picture with it and share it with us on Facebook or Instagram using the hashtag #bestofocmd. We’ll put you in a drawing and you could be one of five lucky winners to receive a gift card of your choice from our store.

Below are our winners of 2017. Click on the headers to read more about the best restaurants, bars, activities and boardwalk businesses, and to see the editor’s choice for each category. What do you think?

Best restaurants

Best pizza

Winner: Lombardi’s. Runner-up: Dough Roller.

Best seafood

Winner: Crabcake Factory USA. Runner-up: Shark on the Harbor.

Best raw bar

Winner: Harrison’s Harbor Watch. Runner-up: Blu Crabhouse & Raw Bar.

Best BBQ

Winner: 28th Street Pit and Pub. Runner-up: Smoker’s BBQ Pit.

Best crabs

Winner: The Crab Bag. Runner-up: Hooper’s Crab House.

Best crabcakes

Winner: Crabcake Factory USA. Runner-up: Coins Pub & Restaurant

Best wings

Winner: The Greene Turtle. Runner-up: Kirby’s Pub.

Best subs

Winner: Anthony’s Liquor, Beer, Wine, Deli & Bar. Runner-up: Anthony’s Carryout.

Best breakfast

Winner: Barn 34. Runner-up: General’s Cafe.

Best ice cream

Winner: Dumser’s. Runner-up: Kohr Bros Frozen Custard.

Best buffet

Winner: The Bonfire. Runner-up: Embers Restaurant.

Best carryout

Winner: Anthony’s Carryout at 17th. Runner-up: Fat Daddy’s Sub Shop.

Best waterfront dining

Winner: Fish Tales. Runner-up: Fager’s Island.

Best Asian food

Winner: OC Wasabi. Runner-up: Blue Fish Restaurant & Sushi Bar.

Best Italian food

Winner: Touch of Italy. Runner-up: Mione’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant.

Best Mexican food

Winner: Mother’s Cantina. Runner-up: Tequila Mockingbird.

Best bars

Best overall

Winner: Fish Tales. Runner-up: Seacrets.

Best happy hour

Winner: Coconuts. Runner-up: M.R. Ducks.

Best sunset view

Winner: Fager’s Island. Runner-up: F ish Tales.

Best live music

Winner: Seacrets. Runner-up: Coconuts.

Best sports bar

Winner: Pickles. Runner-up: Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon.

Best craft beer

Winner: Ocean City Brewing Co. Runner-up: 45th Street Taphouse.

Best brewery

Winner: Burley Oak. Runner-up: Ocean City Brewing Co.

Best activities

Best fishing charter

Winner: The Angler boat. Runner-up: Happy Hooker.

Best mini golf

Winner: Old Pro Golf. Runner-up: Lost Treasure Golf.

Best parasailing

Winner: OC Parasailing. Runner-up: OC Watersports.

Best jet skiing

Winner: Odyssea Watersports. Runner-up: Action Watersports.

Best kayak rental

Winner: 48th Street Watersports. Runner-up: Coastal Kayak.

Best surf shop

Winner: Malibu’s Surf Shop. Runner-up: K-Coast Surf Shop.

Best rainy day

Winner: Fox Sun & Surf. Runner-up: Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Best indoor activity

Winner: Fox Sun & Surf. Runner-up: OC Screams.

Best of the boardwalk

Best caramel corn

Winner: Fisher’s Popcorn. Runner-up: Dolles Candyland.

Best boardwalk shop

Winner: The Kite Loft. Runner-up: Quiet Storm.

Best boardwalk stand

Winner: Golden Plate. Runner-up: Atlantic Stand.

Best sit-down restaurant

Winner: Harrison’s Harbor Watch. Runner-up: Captain’s Table.

Best boardwalk bar

Winner: Purple Moose Saloon. Runner-up: Shenanigan’s.

Best boardwalk pizza

Winner: Tony’s. Runner-up: Dough Roller.

Best boardwalk candy

Winner: Candy Kitchen. Runner-up: Wockenfuss Candies.

Hello from OceanCity.com’s new editor

Uncategorized

Kristin

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December 16, 2017

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Hi! My name is Kristin and, as you’ve already garnered, I’m your new editor here at OceanCity.com.

I know this introduction will be a little gratuitous to most of our readers, who come here to find hotel deals, buy discounted gift cards or read the occasional Top-10-List-of-Things-to-Do-in-Ocean-City (or something that sounds a lot like that).

That’s totally understandable! But I will (still) be writing a good amount of the Ocean City articles and blogs you find on this site, and curating the content from here on out, so I just wanted to say hello and briefly introduce myself. I also want to hear a lot more from you and do my best to represent the voices and faces of Ocean City moving forward–after all, the locals and the visitors here are 90% of what makes OC the fantastic place that it is. Excluding the people who leave trash on the beach and tire tracks on the highway, but I won’t get into that now. Most of you, anyways, are wonderful! I love you almost as much as I love the beach at sunrise and sunset. That’s the other 10%.

Frontier Town–late 90s–the shark’s been around awhile.

I started out as an intern here at OceanCity.com last summer, then convinced them to keep me on as a full-time employee because I loved my internship so much and couldn’t bear to part with it. It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you loiter around the office long enough and refuse to let them take you off payroll.

Now I’m taking over Tony’s job, as he’s moving on to the wonderful world of podcasts. He was a great mentor and will be profoundly missed here and on our sister site Shore Craft Beer. In the meantime, I have a lot of beer to drink to get my bearings over on Shore Craft Beer, and I hope to see all of you at the various happy hours and breweries around town. Say hi when you see me!

I graduated from Towson University in May with a degree in mass communications, journalism concentration and a minor in English. I’m not from the Ocean City area but my partner BL is, and that’s how we ended up moving from Baltimore to just-outside-of-Ocean-City in June. That’s also when he started the Ocean City Film Festival, which we work on together with our team at the Art League of Ocean City. The festival’s second season will be this March, and you should check it out if you’re in town. I also work part-time at the Art League, where you’ll find me behind the desk on the occasional afternoon.

Transitioning from an Ocean City tourist–my family visits at least twice a year–to a “local” has been an interesting experience. I put local in parenthesis because I know you Ocean City lifers will hate me for calling myself one. But I hope my passion and dedication for this town will eventually allow me the honorary Local title, and I hope I can do my small part in making this a better place for everyone.

Throwback to me and my dad on the Ocean City beach in 1999-ish.

That brings me back from wanting to hear more from you, our readers, Ocean City locals and tourists and students who work here in the summer. You make this place what it is, and otherwise I might just feel like I’m talking (and photoblogging) to myself, which I already do plenty of.

Send me your beautiful pictures and I’ll put them up! Write for us if you have something to say! And please, take the survey I’ll be putting out soon so I’ll know what it is about Ocean City you love and what you want to see more of on our sites and social media. I’m going to keep incessantly photoblogging the boardwalk and beach regardless, but I’ll make time for other things, too.

P.S. Here’s a picture from Winterfest to prove I’m not still four years old.

When I first started writing this introduction, the first snow of the season was falling just outside my window, my first snow officially experienced as a “local.” I’m so excited to get to share all these firsts, these everyday happenings that are automatically 100 times more exciting because they’re happening in the best place in the world, with you. And I hope that you’ll share some of your firsts, memories and musings with me, too.

You’ll have to forgive me for ending this in such a corny, predictable way, but–I’ll see you on the beach!

Kristin

My next chapter after OceanCity.com

Tony Russo

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December 15, 2017

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Hey, folks! After a little more than two years on the beach and beer beat, I’ll be moving on and producing other media altogether but I wanted to take a second and say thanks and so long.

Before I started writing about Ocean City I never realized how engaged the readership of OceanCity.com was. Readers and Facebook subscribers from all over the country were so engaged and supportive right off the bat it made it hard for me to comprehend.

I remember the first time I did a Facebook live and saw that thousands of you were watching and dozens were engaging by asking questions and making comments. It was, like, 2 p.m. on a Wednesday or something and I was absolutely awestruck and humbled.

Similarly when I started posting stories and digging into the scope and demographics of people who were reading my work, sharing it and responding both on OceanCity.com and on the Facebook page, it was a pleasure. After more than a decade in the newspaper business, knowing precisely how many people were reading my work every day made it so much easier to write. This was true even (and maybe especially) when I wrote something unpopular.

Telling stories is one of my favorite things to do in the world, second only to helping other people tell theirs. Although I have had an absolute blast telling stories about the beach and beer (at ShoreCraftBeer.com) and the people who love the beach and who love beer there are more and other stories for me to look at now. It’s been a lot of fun getting to know so many of our readers personally and having them participate so enthusiastically both in real life and online.

Last week, however, I got a storytelling opportunity I couldn’t pass up. I’ve been hired by a media company to produce a podcast documenting the combat veteran experience. There’s not a lot more I can say about it for now, but just a cursory look at the source material makes me feel like this could be a really fulfilling use of my storytelling abilities.

In the meantime, I’ll still be around. You can find me on Twitter mainly, but I also have a professional Facebook page. If you are a podcast listener and want to check out some of what I do on iTunes my current shows include a writers podcast called So What’s Your Story, a beach-themed podcast called The Happy Hour Todcast: Life at the Beach, and (of course) a beer podcast called Beer with Strangers. And as always, my Ocean City stories are still available at OceanCity.com and ShoreCraftBeer.com, respectively.

Once again, the pleasure has been all mine. Thanks so much for reading.

A snowy walk around the Inlet

Photoblogs

Kristin

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December 14, 2017

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These photos were taken the Sunday after the first snow of the season on Friday, Dec. 8, which was followed by a little more on Saturday. I woke up on Sunday morning, looked out the window and immediately knew I’d have to bundle up fast and head out to take pictures before the snow melted or otherwise ended up covered in street sludge and general dirt, trash and cigarette butts. Not to be a downer or anything–the snow is just especially beautiful before human interaction.

No matter how many times it snows in a winter (or late fall, in this case), the anticipation of a snow-covered driveway and maybe a day off from work or school is still always there. If you’re in Ocean City the next time it snows, be sure to take a walk along the boardwalk–just be prepared with high-traction snow boots!–and snap a few pictures of the peaceful, wintry scene. If you’re on Instagram, share your photos with us–@oceancityphotos–or on Facebook at facebook.com/ocfun. We love to see them and sometimes even share them for our fellow Ocean City lovers to see!

Old Pro dinosaurs — First, making a brief pit stop to photograph the snow-covered dinosaurs.

At the Inlet, where the snow was melting fast and making the boards extra slick.

The famous Inlet totem pole, half-covered in snow (he didn’t seem to notice).

There were footprints in the snow, but very few people around.

Looking down at the boardwalk, tire tracks on the boards and bundled-up joggers faaar in the distance.

In the winter, the seagulls own the Inlet parking lot.

And no one around to justify all the footprints and track marks in the snow!

Purchasing a condo for Christmas? Here are some things to consider.

Real Estate

Joanna Laslo

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December 12, 2017

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An abridged guide for anyone looking to purchase a vacation home in Ocean City while avoiding common mistakes.

For some lucky families, a beach house might be on the top of the Christmas wishlist. However, there are a number of issues to take into consideration when planning a purchase of an investment property.

It’s more than just the purchase price.

Some other issues to consider are:

Condominium or Homeowner’s Association fees,
Property taxes,
Utilities,
Individual income tax implications,
And possible rental income.

These are all critical in determining whether the purchase of a vacation home is right for your family. Additionally, each of these expenses should be taken into accounting before submitting an offer.

Certainly, it would be advantageous for all (property) investment owners to remember that some rental seasons are slower than others. Owners should be able to carry the property for a full year, without residual income, as a precaution. Further, it should be noted that taxes and condo fees or other fluctuating costs may affect your financial stability as well.

After careful consideration, should you decide to submit an offer to the seller, be cautious that the price of your offer is reasonable when considering all the requisite fees and utilities. Upon acceptance of your offer, the property is considered “under contract.” Within 15 days of the settlement date (as specified in the sales contract), the seller is required to provide condominium documents and/or HOA (Homeowner’s Association) documents to the buyer. These documents will outline the rules and regulations of the property, as well as minutes of the last meetings and a copy of the budget.

Be cautious of special assessments!

As careful as one may be, there are other, outside influences that could drastically alter your financial well-being if all aspects are not carefully considered. When condominium fees are not sufficient to cover costs that were unplanned, or which may suddenly occur, a special assessment is applied to each unit owner. These special assessments are in addition to the regular condo fees. However, these special fees are generally of a temporary nature and only charged to the owners for a period of one – two years.

Regardless, if a property is not carefully managed, or issues are not noticed in a timely fashion, there could be overwhelming fees that could be devastating to an average investor. For example: there is a low rise, masonry building in Ocean City (on the bay) that was built in 1987 and has, historically, been a very popular building. Sadly, a number of severe mechanical issues with the property have recently been found, like a sinking pool and cracks in the building’s foundation.

Due to these enormous problems, it appears the special assessment will run in excess of $75,000 over the next three years. Anyone who purchased in that building within the past four years or so, at a higher price, may not be able to maintain ownership of their Ocean City investment property with the addition of these excessive sums.

Avoiding pitfalls

Although this scenario is indeed noteworthy, there are precautions that may be taken to reduce this risk. The previously mentioned condominium documents are important in determining what is occurring in any association. The documents disclose discussions between board members and owners regarding upcoming fees that may be confronting the association. Additionally, the budget should reflect upcoming increases to fees that might be on the near horizon.

A buyer may want to consider the following list prior to making the final decision:

The date the roof was last replaced,
When the parking area was last paved,
And when point repairs were completed to the building.

This information is imperative to making a sound decision before any purchase. This may hold true even if buying in a newer building. Two new buildings (also located in Ocean City) had increases and fees which were due to the builders allowing rain-soaked insulation to remain, and mold in place, during construction.

All in all, owning a beach property, or any vacation home, should be a rewarding and pleasurable experience for you and your family for years to come. By taking the proper precautions before submitting an offer should help to avoid financial pitfalls that may affect your enjoyment of ownership. You may wish to contact your local Realtor for guidance. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Ocean City to debut new bus locator app on New Year’s Eve

OceanCity.com

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December 11, 2017

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Ocean City, Maryland – (December 11, 2017): Ocean City is celebrating the New Year with the introduction of the highly anticipated bus locator application. Debuting on New Year’s Eve, the enhanced service will allow bus patrons to view real-time location of busses with the TransLoc Rider app.

Available for both iOS and Android, users of the app can watch Ocean City buses moving in real time, as well get an accurate arrival prediction of busses to their exact location via the app’s text messaging feature. Further, the TransLoc Rider app allows users to set favorite routes, get personal alerts and ultimately makes transit more accessible and convenient for patrons.

“We are continuously exploring ways to improve public transportation in Ocean City, making it an easier and more enjoyable experience for our residents and visitors,” commented Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan. “We know that time is valuable and the TransLoc Rider app gives patrons the ability to know exactly what time the bus will reach them. It’s easy to use and answers the primary question our riders have….where’s the bus?”

To track your bus in real time with the new bus locator, users can download the TransLoc Rider App from the App Store or visit oct.transloc.com. Patrons can also text the Bus Stop ID number (found at each bus stop) to 414-11.

10 pictures from Ocean City’s first Comic Con

Kristin

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December 10, 2017

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I didn’t know what to expect pulling into the Grand Hotel on Saturday morning for Ocean City’s first Comic Con. I had a vague idea of what would be happening throughout the day, thanks to an earlier talk I had with the convention’s organizer James Dufendach, but nothing could have prepared me for all the people, costumes and general hype-ness that had overtaken the hotel the morning of Dec. 9.

Pictured: a model of the DeLorean from Back to the Future. Unpictured: Two very long lines of people waiting to get in from the cold and get their Comic Con wristbands on.

I should preface this by saying that I know very little about comics, anime or Whatever It Is the Kids Are Into These Days (I’m only half-kidding when I say that). I kind of just barged in with my camera and very little knowledge of the things that are considered “nerd culture,” which was pretty intimidating when the hundreds of people who showed up to the convention are very into the culture that Comic Con celebrates. I didn’t want to embarrass myself, so I mostly just kept my mouth shut aside from downing a coffee from the Grand’s Java Beach and asking costumed attendees if I could take their picture. These photos are the result of that.

stormtroopers comic con — These guys were greeting people as they walked in to the lobby to purchase their tickets.

On Facebook, Ocean City Comic Con reported that their projected attendance was doubled at the actual event. That’s probably why it was a little difficult at times to peruse the vendors while pushing through the crowds, but everyone looked to be having a good time regardless.

comic con family — There were costumes, there were couples costumes, and then there were entire family-coordinated costumes.

By the way, if I got anything wrong in the captions, please let me know. I won’t be offended by being corrected, although I’m fairly sure I can identify a Stormtrooper from a Studio Ghibli character. Send me your own photos and I’ll add them to this blog for all the world to see! These 10 photos above and below are by me and BL Strang-Moya.

Pikachu Comic Con — Even Pikachu made an appearance!

Overall, although I don’t usually make a habit of going to these kinds of events, I’m really glad I did. Everyone I encountered was so happy and excited to be there, and the $7 ticket price–or $5 or $6 for those who showed up in costume and/or with a can of food for Diakonia–went a long way considering all the vendors, screenings and panels available. More than that, though, there was a real sense of community among the attendees and volunteers, and I’m sure many new friends were made on Saturday. All of Ocean City’s incredibly creative and talented cosplayers seemed to come out of hiding at our town’s first Comic Con, and for that reason alone I hope the convention comes back for another year.

THINGS TO DOHave A Great Time!

Places

Family Fun

On The Water

Boardwalk Guide

Nick's Mini Golf & Ropes

SPECIAL OFFERS & DISCOUNTS

Grand Hotel

Hilton Oceanfront Suites

Ocean City Hotel Group

Park Place Hotel

SPECIAL OFFERS & DISCOUNTS

RestaurantsWhere to Eat in Ocean City, MD

By Type

Cuisine

By Area

Captain's Table

The Angler

SPECIAL OFFERS & DISCOUNTS

From 2017…

Upcoming hotels

Upcoming restaurants

Downtown Ocean City

2018’s big event dates

January: Snowstorm!

February: Love is in the air

March: Exploring the islands

April: Ocean City goes to the birds

May: New ways to play in the sand

June: Beachgoers bare all

July: A wake-up call for Assateague visitors

August: Total eclipse of the sun

September: Festival season

October: OCtoberfest!

November: The beach gets a pick-me-up

December: A time to reflect

Administrative & transportation hours

New bus locator app

New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day

About the National Folk Festival

About the National Council for the Traditional Arts (NCTA)

About the City of Salisbury, Maryland

Vote for the Best of Ocean City 2018!

Contest time

Best pizza

Best seafood

Best raw bar

Best BBQ

Best crabs

Best crabcakes

Best wings

Best subs

Best breakfast

Best ice cream

Best buffet

Best carryout

Best waterfront dining

Best Asian food

Best Italian food

Best Mexican food

Best overall

Best happy hour

Best sunset view

Best live music

Best sports bar

Best craft beer

Best brewery

Best fishing charter

Best mini golf

Best parasailing

Best jet skiing

Best kayak rental

Best surf shop

Best rainy day

Best indoor activity

Best caramel corn

Best boardwalk shop

Best boardwalk stand

Best sit-down restaurant

Best boardwalk bar

THINGS TO DO
Have A Great Time!

Restaurants
Where to Eat in Ocean City, MD