Planning Your New Year’s Celebrations in Ocean City

Jessica Bauer
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Planning Your New Year’s Celebrations in Ocean City

2020 has come and gone (well, almost), and 2021 is almost here. Thank goodness, we hear you say, and we couldn’t agree more! You could stay home and bang pots and pans on the back porch when the clock strikes midnight, but you could also begin the New Year in Ocean City, where the town’s all decked out in holiday lights and displays. Not that there’s anything wrong with pots and pans. But sometimes you just gotta get out and start the new year the way you hope it’s going to continue.

If you are considering spending your last (and first) holiday of the year in Ocean City, here’s a little guide to help you plan. 

1. First and foremost, figure out where you’re going to stay.

This is a pretty important step, unless you have your own beach house or condo, or otherwise know where your unsuspecting friends keep their spare key. If you normally opt for a hotel, you can search for your favorite here. Even better — and this is kind of skipping ahead to the next step, but oh well — some hotels have New Year’s Packages and parties in their restaurants or ballrooms, and you can take a look at those packages and parties here. 

A vacation rental might suit your needs better if you are worried that even though you have hung the “Do Not Disturb”, you might hear people in the hall or in nearby rooms. Vacation rentals also will give you the opportunity to make your breakfast just the way you like it in the morning.

2. Decide which party you’re going to crash

‘Crash’ may not be the operative word here, because the public is invited to all of these parties and in most cases you might have to pay for tickets to attend them, but you should still plan in advance where you’re going to eat dinner/toast your champagne flute. There are NYE parties happening all over town, some with open bars, some with sit-down dinners, some with fancy dress codes, and others a more casual affair. All you have to do is pick one, and then tell your Uber driver or DD where to take you (because we’re all about ringing in the new year safely!).

3. Enjoy the fireworks at Northside Park

If you’re not spending the night holed up in a bar or restaurant, and would rather bundle up and enjoy the spectacle of New Year’s fireworks, Northside Park is the place to do it! Winterfest of Lights will be drawing to a close, and the fireworks celebration on New Year’s Eve will literally end all of the holiday festivities for the season with a bang. Enjoy extended hours at Winterfest before turning your attention to the sky above for a fireworks display for the ages. 

4. Start off 2021 at the Penguin Swim

Each New Year’s Day, hundreds conquer their hangovers and gather on the 91st Street beach, in front of Princess Royale, for the most thrilling, and chilling, event of the entire year. Since 1994 the Penguin Swim to benefit the Atlantic General Hospital gives you the chance to “get wet for a good cause.”  The Penguin Swim has evolved into a favorite event of Ocean City locals as teams representing businesses and community organizations compete to raise the most money for AGH. Get your new year off to a great start; take the pledge to take the plunge at this year’s Penguin Swim.

5. Enjoy performances by talented Marylanders at the Mayor’s New Year’s Day Concert

The Ocean City Performing Arts Center has been extravagantly decorated for the holidays, and the mayor and other town officials will be in attendance to greet visitors at the annual free New Year’s Day Concert.  After a brief meet and greet with local elected officials and participating community partners, the 2021 New Year’s Day Concert will feature begin.

5 Reasons Not to Miss Light Up Downtown Fest in Ocean City, MD

Jessica Bauer
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5 Reasons Not to Miss Light Up Downtown Fest in Ocean City, MD

2019’s Light Up Downtown Festival is on Nov. 23 from 2-6 p.m. 

Any lover of the holidays won’t really need a reason to want to attend Ocean City’s annual Light Up Downtown Festival—after all, it’s chock full of pretty much every exclusively Christmastime specialty except eggnog. Maybe you’re on the fence about booking a hotel just for a holiday extravaganza like this one, or looking for one more excuse to bring the family down for a day-trip on Nov. 23. Look no further: here’s exactly why you need to be in town to take part in the festivities and see downtown OC all lit up.

1. It’s free

When an event is free, that fact is always going to make number one on my list of why the event is so great. And Light Up Downtown is free; Winterfest of Lights is another one of Ocean City’s huge holiday season events, and while I totally recommend that one too, you have to pay a small fee to get in. At Light Up Downtown, you can see the lights sparkle all over the Inlet and enjoy a hot chocolate provided by the Harrison Group, 100% free of charge.

Plus, hotels and motels are really inexpensive this time of year, so the trip itself won’t put a huge dent in your budget, either. If you happen to have cash on hand, then definitely take advantage of the raffle and local vendors who will be around—but you don’t really need any money in your pocket in order to have a good time.

Light Up Downtown
Linda and Katie Fritch and their dog came down for Winterfest and stayed for the festival.

2. It’s festive

Okay, obviously. But the holiday season is kind of a big deal in Ocean City, and Light Up Downtown—in addition to Winterfest, which begins in Northside Park two days earlier—signals the start of the most wonderful time of the year.

Light Up Downtown
The band in 2016–this year, classic rock group One Night Stand will perform.

3. …and it’s fun

If you’re a holiday fanatic, Light Up Downtown is a Winter Wonderland. There will be holiday-themed games and prizes for the kids, hot chocolate, vendors selling trinkets and crafts and even an appearance by Santa Claus himself. The holiday season is meant to be spent with family and friends, and what better place than a fun-filled-Christmas-light spectacle?

Light Up Downtown
Babe Manganello and Santa at 2016’s Light Up Downtown.

4. It’s something (out of many other things) to do

One (out of many other) reasons the Downtown Association of Ocean City hosts Light Up Downtown is to keep Ocean City’s downtown busy, beautiful and vibrant even deep into the off-season. As I wrote recently, there are plenty of businesses still open in the wintertime (contrary to what some OC old-timers might tell you). And, as you’ll see below, there are a lot of other events going on, too (and if you still find yourself looking for more to do, you can volunteer at the festival).

Light Up Downtown
Irelyn Cooney and Kaydin Jones volunteered at Harrison’s last year, handing out hot chocolate.

5. It marks the beginning of the greatest time of year

Again: Ocean City loves the holiday season. The Light Up Downtown Festival and Winterfest of Lights are just the beginning of other cool things happening around town, like the Ocean City Christmas Parade, the Holiday Shoppers Fair, a Holiday Artisan Fair at the Art League, a Jingle Bell 5k, Pizza with Santa, holiday concerts at the Performing Arts Center—and that’s all before the New Year’s celebrations start.

Be sure to wear your favorite tacky Christmas sweater and dangly, red-and-green light-up earrings and I’ll see you at the festival.

This article was originally published in 2017 and has been updated with 2019 events and times.

10 Festive Things To Do During an Ocean City Winter

Jessica Bauer
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10 Festive Things To Do During an Ocean City Winter

Winter in Ocean City is what I spend all year looking forward to. Sure, summer is nice–there’s the beach, the sun and the knowledge that every business in town is open. But if you can take or leave the hot weather, you might find that the town is actually more enjoyable and adventure-friendly in the wintertime.

There’s about 100x less traffic in the off-season, and that you could probably close your eyes and walk the entire length of the boardwalk without bumping into anyone. The downside, of course, is the lack of sunbathing and having to call a restaurant to find out if they’re open instead of walking right in. The secret is, even though not everything is open during the winter months, there’s still tons to do; you just have to know when things are happening and what’s still open. Here are just a few of the places and things you can take advantage of during an Ocean City winter. 

1. Get in touch with your artistic side

About the Art League of Ocean City ~ history, events, hours

Sitting right over the bay on 94th street with one of the best sunset views in Ocean City is the OC Center for the Arts, home to the Art League of Ocean City. Inside you’ll find a two-story gallery, classrooms, five artist studios, a pottery studio, an art library and even local handmade jewelry and pottery available for sale.


One hidden gem in Ocean City is the Center for the Arts, home of the Art League of Ocean City. At the OC Center for the Arts, you can walk through multiple galleries and see the art of local and regional artists, or take a class and learn how to make something for yourself. There’s a pottery studio, five additional artists’ studios, a library of art books and always something going on. 

2. See a show

Events – OceanCity.com

From free weekly events hosted by the town, to major festivals and celebrations, all you need to know about performances and events in Ocean City is on this page.


The Center for the Arts isn’t to be confused with the Performing Arts Center, the multi-leveled auditorium and exhibit hall located inside the Roland E. Powell Convention Center on 40th street. The Performing Arts Center often has local talents performing in their theater, but they also frequently host big names–The Oak Ridge Boys are a group that many will flock to.
In the 2019 off season, the Performing Arts Center will offer holiday shows including a The Ten Tenors, Red Door’s Christmas Cabaret, the Mid-Atlantic Symphony and the Sussex Dance Academy’s “The Nutcracker.” 

3. Treat yourself to a holiday light spectacle

A Winterfest Excursion – Things to Do in Ocean City Maryland

It was a cold night as we drove along the Route 90 into Ocean City. From the bridge, you could see the array of lights set along the coastline, illuminating the buildings all around town.


If you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit (and a Home for the Holidays concert doesn’t do it for you), the Winterfest of Lights is the biggest and best festivity in Ocean City. For only a few dollars, you can ride a tram through Northside Park and immerse yourself in a winter wonderland. Christmas carols play from the tram speakers as you travel through a bright 12 Days of Christmas display, watch Rudolph fly through the air and take a visit to Santa’s light-up workshop. End your night in the heated Winterfest Village Pavillion where you can meet St. Nick himself while sipping on a marshmallow-topped hot chocolate.

4. Watch the Ocean City Christmas Parade

The Ocean City Christmas Parade – OceanCity.com

This year, the Ocean City Christmas Parade begins at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2 on Old Landing Road but you may want to show up a little earlier for the best seats (and as always, feel free to call the town for more information 410-250-0125).


If you miss Santa at the Winterfest celebration, you’ll have another chance to catch him at the annual Ocean City Christmas Parade. See horses, festively themed floats, antique cars and marching bands tread down Coastal Highway. Awards for the best parade acts will be given out after the parade at the Carousel hotel, where there will also be pictures with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, half-priced ice-skating and a DJ spinning holiday tunes all day long. 

5. Ring in the New Year

If your resolution is to have more fun in 2019, Ocean City is the place to celebrate the New Year. The Winterfest of Lights festivities will continue on December 31, with the added bonus of a big and beautiful fireworks spectacle to let in 2019 with a bang. 

6. Engage in some retail therapy

5 reasons not to miss Ocean City’s Light Up Downtown Festival

2017’s Light Up Downtown Festival is on Nov. 17 from 3 – 6 p.m. Any lover of the holidays won’t really need a reason to want to attend Ocean City’s annual Light Up Downtown Festival-after all, it’s chock full of pretty much every exclusively Christmastime specialty except egg nog.


Many local and boardwalk shops will open for the day if the weather is nice enough, but even if you aren’t so lucky as to vacation when the weather is unseasonably warm, you can snag some great deals at the outlets in West Ocean City. If you’re looking to buy holiday gifts, there’s also a Holiday Shopper’s Fair at the Convention Center from November 23-25, where you can find presents for your loved ones ranging from jewelry and ceramics to photography prints. 

7. Bring the whole family to the boardwalk 

Dog friendly Winter Activities – OceanCity.com

Last Wednesday, The conversation in my house went like this: T: “What do you think? Should we go down to the beach this weekend?” A: “Well, there’s not much going on but the weather looks like it will be nice. I’m sure we can find something to do with the dogs.”


You can really bring your entire family to the boardwalk between October 1 and April 30, when dogs are allowed to traipse the boards and the beach. The winter is also the best time to rent bikes, scooters or a surrey. No worries if someone’s still got to have the training wheels on, because now there’s much less of a chance of running into innocent passersby. 

8. Explore the indoors

Spending the wintertime in Ocean City, Maryland

One parts beach, two parts winter wonderland While it’s true that most Ocean City businesses and amusements are closed in the dead of winter, there are plenty of reasons to plan a winter vacation in OC.


You could be lucky enough to have 60-degree weather in January. Or it could be super windy and feel like it’s about -50 degrees outside. If that’s the case, worry not: there’s still plenty to do.
You’re surely familiar with the excess of outdoor mini golf in OC, but there are places to golf inside, too. 136th street’s Old Pro course offers an indoor safari theme, while the 68th street course is decorated with fishes and other underwater paraphernalia. Even if you can’t enjoy the actual ocean, you can feel like you’re putting at the bottom of it. 

9. Soak in the silence

A winter walk on the Boardwalk – OceanCity.com

If you’re not too afraid of the cold, it’s a great time to get out and explore the nooks and crannies of the Ocean City Boardwalk. The place just looks different when there are fewer people. As part of my latest Ocean City photo adventure, I started in the Inlet parking lot and then worked my …


One thing you definitely won’t find in Ocean City in the off-season: Noise. It’s the perfect time of year to bring a chair up to the beach and read a book while listening to the waves crash, or sit on a pier over the bay and meditate.
As someone who likes to take pictures, I also find winter to be the optimal season for Ocean City photogenic-ness. There’s something so beautiful and peaceful about a quiet, empty beach, or a seemingly abandoned amusement park. 

10. Take advantage of off-season deals 

Hotel Packages in Ocean City, Maryland – OceanCity.com

No one needs a good reason to visit Ocean City, but sometimes there’s an extra incentive to come and an even better one to extend your time at the beach. Whatever the season, there are hotel packages in Ocean City that will make you consider the possibilities of a weekend getaway, even if you are a local.


Hotels. Restaurants. Attractions. Everything is way cheaper in the winter. Not only will you find that there are a ton of fun, seasonal activities in Ocean City, but you’ll also be able to enjoy them for half the usual price. That’s the best Christmas present of all. 

 

This article was originally published on Nov. 16, 2017 and was updated for the 2019/20 season –ed. 

Ocean City’s Best New Year’s Eve parties

Jessica Bauer
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Ocean City’s Best New Year’s Eve parties

The best reason to spend New Year’s Eve in Ocean City is that there are so many good reasons to spend New Year’s Eve in Ocean City. That is, you can pick the extent and the type of party in which you want to participate (if you want to participate in a party at all) which means you can both decide which are Ocean City’s best New Year’s Eve parties and which of them you would like to attend. You can even stay at one hotel and go to a party in another. If you want to explore the region’s various ball drop parties, you can use the town as a staging ground. Alternatively, you can attend one of the parties at a local bar or club (below are some of our favorites):

Click the headers to find more information.

New Year’s Eve Bash at Seacrets

Party ’til 4 a.m. with the area’s best bands and live DJs. The balloon drop and complimentary champagne toast is at midnight!

There’s also a three-course dinner that includes a salad, one appetizer of choice and one entree of choice. Reservations are required for dinner.

New Year’s Eve on Fager’s Island

The New Year’s Eve celebration on the Fager’s bar and deck includes party favors and a champagne toast at midnight. Dress for the evening is fashionable attire. Only ticket-holders will be admitted after 7 p.m.

There will additionally be a three-course dinner in the fine dining room. Reservations are required for dinner.

 

New Year’s Eve with Ray & the Revolvers at Pickles Pub

Join Pickles Pub to ring in 2019, with Ray & the Revolvers live on stage and a champagne toast at midnight. There’s no cover at this NYE celebration. 

New Year’s Gala ’19 at the Clarion

Get tickets to the Clarion’s annual New Year’s Gala, or stay two or three nights with deluxe accommodations and receive tickets with the New Year’s package.

Choose Your Midnight Memory at the Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel has a number of New Year’s Eve packages to choose from, including the “Epic Midnight Bash,” “Midnight at the Beach Celebration” and “Choose Your Midnight Memory.” All three packages include hors d’oeuvres and a champagne toast at midnight, so you reallly can’t go wrong.

New Year’s Extravaganza at Dunes Manor Hotel, Courts & Suites

Ring in the New Year at the Dunes! The package includes oceanfront accommodations, an open bar, an elegant buffet station, the sounds of ReWind (Motown, 60s, 70s, 80s and today’s music) and a champagne toast at midnight with party favors.

New Year’s Parties at the Princess Royale

There are two parties to choose from this year at Princess Royale. The Palmetto Ballroom Party Package includes a five-course gourmet dinner, an open bar, party rock music, a champagne toast and coat and tie attire, while the Atrium Stars Package includes a bountiful buffet dinner, open bar, rock music, a champagne toast and upscale casual attire. Party tickets come with hotel packages and can also be purchased separately.

This article was originally published on Dec. 4, 2017, and has been updated for the 19-20 season.

The Ocean City Christmas Parade

Jessica Bauer
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The Ocean City Christmas Parade

This year, the Ocean City Christmas Parade begins at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7 on Old Landing Road but you may want to show up a little earlier for the best seats (and as always, feel free to call the town for more information 410-250-0125).
A tradition more than three decades old, the 37th Annual Ocean City Christmas Parade signals the start of a season full of festivities in the beach resort. Many of the floats support that notion.

Although the rides are closed for the season, one of the final Trimpers rides of 2015 was in a float down Coastal Highway.
Although the rides are closed for the season, one of the final Trimper’s rides of 2015 was in a float down Coastal Highway.

Dog friendly Ocean City

Dogs always are a big part of the parade, both when they’re spectators and participants.

dog at the ocean city christmas parade
This little guy showed up to watch the Ocean City Christmas Parade last year and had a blast.
This couple brought their dog along for the day of riding the in Ocean City.
This couple brought their dog along for the day of watching the in Ocean City Christmas Parade.

Kids love to play in and at the parade

In addition to playing in the marching bands that provide much of the Christmas soundtrack for the Christmas Parade, groups of kids love riding along on floats as well as sitting on the side of the street waving at all the Christmas displays.

kid as elf
This little one was a super helpful team player on the Harrison group float.
SDHS Drum porps
You always know when there’s a drum corps about and many of us spend the rest of the day tapping our feet to music we heard early in the morning.
Sitting in the back of a float and waving is an important way to contribute to the Christmas Parade.
Sitting in the back of a float and waving is an important way to contribute to the Christmas Parade.

Heading to Winterfest after

Once the parade winds down, treat yourself to a hot drink at a local restaurant and maybe some lunch and a winter stroll along the beach. Then warm yourself up again. As the sun goes down, head over to the Winterfest of Lights and spend some time enjoying yourself with people in line before taking the train around the Christmas themed tour. Finally, take a moment to have one final cocoa and a look around the shops before calling it a night.

 

If Christmas Parades are an indulgent that needs to be met more than once, here are more in the driving area of Ocean City.

Pocomoke Christmas parade Tuesday, December 3

Berlin Christmas parade Thursday, December 5

Crisfield Christmas parade Friday, December 6

Selbyville Christmas parade Friday, December 6

Chincoteague Old Fashion Christmas parade Saturday, December 7

Snow Hill Christmas parade Monday, December 9

A Winterfest Excursion

Jessica Bauer
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A Winterfest Excursion

A Night at Ocean City’s Winterfest

 

Ride over the Bridge Sets the Tone

It was a cold night as we drove along Route 90 into Ocean City. From the bridge, you could see the array of lights set along the coastline, illuminating the buildings all around town. Once parked, we made our way to the Winterfest of Lights display, where a large Christmas tree towered over the entrance to the tent in which we would await the tram. Being a weekday, there weren’t many people, so we managed to move through the line very quickly. I purchased my ticket, walked into the tent and swiftly moved in line. I could hardly smell anything other than the coffee and the sweets that were being carried around.

hot chocolate
Even though there wasn’t much of a wait, the smell of hot chocolate was almost too much, although I warmed myself with coffee after my ride.

Plenty of photo ops on the Winterfest of Lights tram

When I got on the tram, the conductor welcomed us all and made the kids giggle. The whole ride was narrated, and a recorded song played depending on what part of the display we were passing. I saw all sorts of the typical Christmas allusions—Elves, “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” and fun lights like sharks and jungle animals. I should note that the tram moved slow enough to take every light in and a window for photo or video. I felt as if I could really take in each light and display individually. Despite it being about a week before Christmas, the experience of sitting on the tram makes you feel like a kid again. The colossal trees and wires that winded by my eyes was easy to lose myself in. After passing countless Santas, Christmas trees, candy canes and more, the tram returned us to  the place where we boarded.

Cocoa & Coffee to Warm Up

I walked around the tent in an attempt to shake off the cold. I ended up getting coffee (which warmed me instantly as I held it) and entered the small gift shop in which Ocean City’s crafts were combined with little ornaments and candy.

A tour of the Winterfest of Lights, a visit with Santa and a candy cane. You can’t do much better.

A visit with the man himself

My last excursion was to visit the man himself in his workshop—Santa. When I got into Santa’s Workshop, my little brother, along with other anxious children, had notes for Santa, which his helpful elves would save after each child’s encounter with Ol’ Saint Nick.
We left happily, my little brother and I, with smiles on our faces and cookie crumbs on our clothes.

This article was created in 2016 and has been updated for 2019

Winterfest Prep: Northside Park in Ocean City

Jessica Bauer
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Winterfest Prep: Northside Park in Ocean City

Are you ready for Winterfest? Winterfest is getting ready for you!

Winterfest is quickly approaching and the anticipation is reaching a fever pitch. We know you have been asking a lot of questions:

What are the dates Winterfest will be open?

Winterfest in Ocean City

Will there be a special event for the opening night?

27th Annual Winterfest of Lights Opening Ceremony

Could you recommend a great hotel package?

Book Your Winterfest & New Year’s Eve Packages Now and Save Big this Holiday Season

Keep in Touch with Us

We are trying to keep up with all of your questions and give the best possible answers. If there is something else you want to know for you time in Ocean City during Winterfest, please feel free to reach out.

We Took a Stroll Around Northside Park for YOU

In the meantime, we know waiting is hard and we are trying to make the time speed up for you, but we haven’t quite mastered the art of time travel. Until then, we made a trip over to Northside Park to see how the town is prepping for your visit. We found some displays up and lights ready to twinkle. THE Christmas Tree already had its lights up. The day we went the sound was on softly being  tested, some of the carolers you love to hear were coming out of the speakers!! If you are anything like us at OceanCity.com, the Christmas music just sets the tone, no pun intended.

“Residents” of Northside Park

For the regular inhabitants of Northside Park, the decorations and tent set-up didn’t seem to change their daily activities, but we like to think it put them in a more jovial mode. This reporter could have sworn the geese in the pond were admiring one of the 12 Days of Christmas Displays with a little more reverence than the other representations. One hint: It comes before the “swans a-swimming” and after “five golden rings… ”

REMINDER to Dress Warm

On this particular day last week, the weather was definitely chilly and the wind kept you alert, but days since the temp has been mild and the wind has calmed. We recommend to dress for the cold, since this is an outside night event. Appropriate dress should be all you need to keep comfortable, and don’t forget the gift shop will give you a reprieve from the night air and an opportunity for shopping while sipping hot cocoa!

[ngg src=”galleries” ids=”125″ display=”pro_mosaic”]

A Winter Walk on the Boardwalk

Tony Russo
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A Winter Walk on the Boardwalk

If you’re not too afraid of the cold, it’s a great time to get out and explore the nooks and crannies of the Ocean City Boardwalk. The place just looks different when there are fewer people. As part of my latest Ocean City photo adventure, I started in the Inlet parking lot and then worked my way up to Somerset Street and finished with a Facebook Live broadcast on the pier. When I go on these adventures, I often also post photos on Instagram, if you want to follow Ocean City there.  If you want to share photos of your own adventures anywhere in Maryland, we can help with that. Click here for information about having us help you photoblog in Maryland.

ocean city inlet
I climbed the stairs at one of the local restaurants to get an alternate view of the Inlet Indian and the view of West Ocean City beyond.
ticket booth
There’s something a little off kilter about an empty amusement park. Not one to eschew hamfistedness, I took this photo. Also, to be fair, I wanted to get the water tower as well as the rollercoaster and composing it was tricky.
skee ball
I grew up near the Jersey Shore and developed an affinity for Boardwalk Skee Ball early on. I’ll be honest, I don’t like the new games, with their plastic balls and 100 point ringers. Give me a nicked up wooden ball, a mostly-warped sideboard and a handful of quarters and I’ll come home with the tackiest ticket treasure you’ve ever seen!
Somerset Plaza
Although it was a quiet enough day in Ocean City, there were still some people about. I waited, though, for the foot traffic to clear around Somerset Plaza to get this straight through shot.
Ripley's Shark
Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! still was decorated for Christmas, but that was fine with me. I captioned this photo on my personal Instagram account this way:
“And it was always said of him, that he knew how to keep Christmas well, if any man alive possessed the knowledge.” It’s from the last paragraph of “A Christmas Carol” so that makes it doubly appropriate.
This was my view of the boardwalk as I made my way from Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! to the pier. There hardly was any wind, so it made my work a little easier.
beach shop opening
Nearly ready! Several shops were open and others were doing what, for the beach shop owners must be the equivalent of Spring cleaning. The kid in me was tempted to peek in and maybe boost one of those broomstick ponies, but really just for the thrill of the trespass. I am a grown man after all. Plus, I already have a broomstick pony.

SALES MARKET STABILITY IN WORCESTER COUNTY

Joanna Laslo
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SALES MARKET STABILITY IN WORCESTER COUNTY
Remington – sold

While most home buyers are more interested in location than history of sales, investors generally examine sales information before considering a real estate purchase.

In an effort to understand the current real estate market in Worcester County we look to statistics.  However, we need to look beyond current numbers.  By comparing the sales from 2019 to the sales that occurred in 2018, we can get a clear glimpse of the overall condition of our sales market.

On the surface, working only with current sales from September 1, 2019 – November 6, 2019 there were 460 total sales in Worcester County.   Coincidentally enough, there were also 460 sales  during the same dates in 2018!  This indicates the sales market is holding strong in total sales.

Maryland Housing Statistics August 2019

Here are some interesting facts for your review:

STATISTICS FROM JAN 1, 2019 – NOV 6, 2019

796 Single family homes were sold

Lowest sale price:  1548 Grand Rd, Stockton.   Listed at $5,000 and sold for $1,500 after 57 days on the market (DOM)

Highest sale price:  17 Seaside Mews, Ocean City.  Listed for $2,575,000 and sold for $2,295,000 after 83 DOM

MEDIAN LIST PRICE WAS $272,450. AVERAGE: $334,524

MEDIAN SOLD PRICE WAS $264.950. AVERAGE: $321,532

 

792 Condominiums exchanged hands

Lowest sale price: 7 45th Street, Ocean Wave, Ocean City.  Listed for $85,000 and sold for $80,000 with 3 DOM

Highest sale price:  14200 Wight St Beach House, Ocean City.  Listed for $1,100,000 and sold for $975,000 after 145 DOM

MEDIAN LIST PRICE WAS $269,900. AVERAGE: $303,769

MEDIAN SALE PRICE WAS $260,000.  AVERAGE: $291,807

 

For comparison:

STATISTICS FROM JAN 1,2018 – NOV 6, 2018

794 Single family homes sold

Lowest sale price: 501 Bonneville Ave,  Pocomoke City.  Listed for $17,900 and sold for $8,500 with 235 DOM

Highest sale price: 5 Pier Walk Mews, Ocean City.  Listed for $2,380,000 and  sold for $2,000,000. After 187 DOM

MEDIAN LIST PRICE WAS $269,860.  AVERAGE: $319,636

MEDIAN SALE PRICE WAS $260,000.  AVERAGE: $305,800.

 

1012 Condominiums were sold

Lowest sale price:  11000 Blockade Lane, Berlin.  Listed for $278,000 and sold for $1,800 with 160 DOM

Highest sale price: 2 48th Street Gateway Grande, Ocean City.  Listed for $1,499,900 and sold for $1,425,000 after 239 DOM

MEDIAN LIST PRICE WAS $255,000.  AVERAGE:  $292,561

MEDIAN SALE PRICE WAS $245,250.  AVERAGE: $280,643

While sales are stable overall, it would appear property values have changed so slightly that whether you look at the average numbers or the median figures, you can view it either way.  If you are shopping, you would want to compare your buildings sales prices to other similar buildings.

In an attempt to further scrutinize the current market, we selected a few random buildings in order to view the market more closely.  For the purposes of this study we looked exclusively at 2 bedroom condos.

2019

CENTURY I:

12 Units sold.  Prices ranged between $285,000-365,000

GOLDEN SANDS:

23 Units sold.  Prices fell between $272,000-385,000

PLAZA:

2 Units sold.  Prices ranged between $367,500-500,000

2018

CENTURY I

11 Units sold.  The prices ranged between $250,000-367,500

GOLDEN SANDS:

26 Units sold.  Prices ranged between $287,000-389,900

PLAZA:

2 units sold.  One unit sold for $382,500 and the other sold for $415,000

While many condo sales have not gained in value, the sales prices are still hovering in the vicinity of the sales prices for 2018.  In fact,  a few units have recognized a modest increase.  You can see the average values of buildings differ from the overall sales average sales prices for the county.

For the current value of your home, condo or property, your local REALTOR would be happy to assist you.

 

Christmas Wish List: Is a Summer Vaca in OC On It?

Jessica Bauer
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Christmas Wish List: Is a Summer Vaca in OC On It?

Heat Up Your Holiday Gift Giving with Ocean City

True, the temperature is dropping, even here in Ocean City, Maryland, but like each night brings a new day, the summer will come soon enough. Who out there is already “Ocean City Dreaming” of laying on the beach by day and taking in all the boardwalk festivities by night?  Before you know it, you will be inside of the best merry-go-round built for kids and adults alike. Lights will swirl around you, and smells of french fries, popcorn, pizza and salt air will bring back every last bit of nostalgia. Waterparks will open, the rollercoasters will be humming with lines of excited faces prepped to be scared, exhilarated, or maybe even a little queasy – in a good way! Nightlife will have the new tunes of the summer and thirst quenching drinks.

Book Your Memories NOW

No need to wait until spring to make those plans! No need to hope you will make it back next year! Give a gift of memories to someone that already knows how magical Ocean City, Maryland can be or start a tradition with friends and family now so next Christmas you can sit around the fire and reminisce about your Ocean City summer vacation. Buy a Christmas card now, and write a sweet note about how you want your time together to always echo with smiles, hugs, and laughter, and include your reservation dates for Ocean City – the best way to gift them this holiday season! 

BOOK NOW

Which Hotel Will Be Under The Tree

To help you get started with this great gift we have compiled a list of hotels in Ocean City that let you book early: (If waiting until Christmas is too hard to keep a secret, or if waiting until November is too long to wait to book for next year, pay attention to how soon you can book again. For you super organizers, or those with no patience or just serious lovers of OC you are in luck, some places let you book a year out. It almost seems like Christmas already came!)

 

Commander – Bookings are 52 weeks out from the current date.

Days Inn Oceanfront– Takes reservations during the summer for following summer, but calls the guest in the Fall to give them the rates and secure deposit.

Dunes Manor – Bookings can usually be 360 days out from current date.Grand Hotel & Spa –  Booking for the upcoming summer starts between September and October.  Hyatt Place – Bookings are 13 months out from the current date.

Home2 Suites – Bookings are 1 year out from the current date

Howard Johnson Oceanfront Plaza – Takes reservations during the summer for following summer, but calls the guest in the Fall to give them the rates and secure deposit.

Howard Johnson Oceanfront Inn – Takes reservations during the summer for following summer, but calls the guest in the Fall to give them the rates and secure deposit.
Park Place – Takes reservations on November 1, at 9am.

Book Your Winterfest & New Year’s Eve Packages Now and Save Big this Holiday Season

Jessica Bauer
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Book Your Winterfest & New Year’s Eve Packages Now and Save Big this Holiday Season

Come celebrate Ocean City, Maryland’s nationally recognized holiday celebration known as Winterfest of Lights. Don’t get left in the dark, or out in the cold, this holiday season. Book your accommodations for your winter beach trip now. Want to save big? Check out these featured hotels offering special seasonal pricing on room rates.

Winterfest Packages

 

Aloft

Aloft Winterfest Package

Enjoy savings of up to 15 percent each day of your stay. Book early and save this holiday season! Skip the crowds and visit Ocean City, Maryland during the holiday season. Catch great events such as Ocean City’s Restaurant Week, our Winterfest of Lights and our not to be missed New Year’s Eve Celebration and Firework show!

 

 

Atlantic Hotel

The Atlantic Hotel Winterfest Package

Two Nights in a Deluxe Period Room in the 1895 Hotel Atlantic, starting at $386 off season and $512 in season. Two Nights in an Elegant Deluxe Room in an 1895 Historic Hotel. Dinner for Two in Drummer’s Café (Coupons valued at $65). A Bottle of Champagne in Guest Room. A Bouquet of fresh Flowers for your Special Occasion

 

 

 

 

 

Boardwalk Hotel Group – Howard Johnson Oceanfront Plaza

Boardwalk Hotels – Howard Johnson Oceanfront Plaza Winterfest Package

Two nights room and tax. 4 tickets to Winterfest of Lights
$40 in Meal Vouchers
$199.00 total for standard or side view rooms
$249.00 total for oceanfront rooms

 

 

Clarion Resort

Clarion Resort Fontainebleau Winterfest Package

One night deluxe guestroom accommodations, $50 meal credit per room valid at any of our food and beverage outlets, and 2 tickets to the Winterfest of Lights at Northside Park.

 

 

Dunes Manor

Dunes Manor Hotel Court Suites Winterfest Package

One night ocean view stay in our Hotel or Suites buildings.  Two tickets to Ocean City’s Winterfest of lights are included for two people.

 

 

 

Grand Hotel

Grand Hotel & Spa Winterfest Package

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. 

 

 

New Year’s Eve Packages

 

Aloft

Aloft New Year’s Eve Package

Enjoy savings of up to 15 percent each day of your stay. Book early and save this holiday season! Skip the crowds and visit Ocean City, Maryland during the holiday season. Catch great events such as Ocean City’s Restaurant Week, our Winterfest of Lights and our not to be missed New Year’s Eve Celebration and Firework show!

 

 

Boardwalk Hotel Group – Howard Johnson Oceanfront Plaza

Boardwalk Hotels – Howard Johnson Oceanfront Plaza New Year’s Eve Package

 

 

 

 

Clarion Resort

Clarion Resort Fontainebleau New Year’s Eve Package

One, two or three nights’ deluxe accommodations with late check out, and tickets to our Gala New Year’s Eve Party.

 

 

 

 

Dunes Manor

Dunes Manor New Year’s Eve Package

One night ocean view stay in our Hotel or Suites buildings.  Two tickets to Ocean City’s Winterfest of lights are included for two people.

 

 

 

Princess Royale

Princess Royale New Year’s Eve Package

Bountiful Buffet Dinner  |  6 Hour Open Bar. Live Music by “Out of Order” playing classic rock, alternative, pop & modern rock. Dancing, champagne toast, party favors & more… Upscale Casual Attire Please!
One-night room and party (side oceanview or poolview) $189 per person, two-night room and party (side oceanview or poolview)
Two-night room and party (side oceanview or poolview) $209 per person, two-night room and party (side oceanview or poolview) $199 per person, party only $99 per person.

Party only $109 per person.

This article was originally published on 12/4/16, and was updated for the 2019 holiday season –ed.

Halloween in Berlin, MD – Spooky Success

Jessica Bauer
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Halloween in Berlin, MD – Spooky Success

Halloween near and around Ocean City was great FUN for all ages!

[ngg src=”galleries” ids=”124″ display=”pro_tile”]Just outside of Ocean City is the town of Berlin, MD. We love this town, and so do ghost, goblins, and princesses alike. Here are some scares and some smiles for you! Even the town and businesses got into the “Spirit of Halloween,” decor set a mood a mischief!

10 reasons to visit Berlin, Maryland

Seal Steward Volunteers Needed : Training November 11

Jessica Bauer
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Seal Steward Volunteers Needed : Training November 11

Maryland Coastal Bays Program in Partnership with National Aquarium

MCBP will be hosting a volunteer training for seal stewards.

Date:Monday, November 11, 2019

Time5:30pm

Location:West Ocean City Fire Department, 10124 Keyser Point Road

Instructed by: Jen Dittmar, National Aquarium’s Director of Animal Rescue

If you are interested in participating please contact Sandi at sandis@mdcoastbays.org or by calling 410-213-2297 ext 106.

Seals Are Protected

Many do not know that seals are a protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Therefore,  it is illegal to touch, feed, or harass a seal. By keeping 50 yards away from a seal, you can best ensure that harassment or change in their behavior will not occur. If you encounter a seal that has hauled out, please contact Marine Animal Rescue Program at 410-576-3880 or 1-800-628-9944.

What is Hauling Out?

Seal haul out for many reasons, mating, giving birth, predator avoidance, thermal regulation, social activity, parasite reduction, and rest. A non-trained observer, may take in their cute faces and want a closer look, but seals in our area are often hauling due to rest or distress. Contact or run ins with humans and dogs on the beach put all at risk; as the seal is still a mammal that can have and pass viruses and diseases along to you or your pet. 

Seal Steward Responsibility

When a seal hauls and MARP response team deems it healthy, the stewards take two -hour shifts watching the seal and making sure beach goers keep a safe distance. They are also there to provide specific information on the seal they are watching.

Keeping Track

If you see a seal in the bay, call call 410-213-2297 ext. 106 and it will be registered to keep track of sightings. UNLESS it is in distress, then please call MARP number above.

 

 

 

27th Annual Winterfest of Lights Opening Ceremony

OceanCity.com
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27th Annual Winterfest of Lights Opening Ceremony

Don’t Miss a Top 100 Event in Ocean City, MD

The Town of Ocean City will be a bit brighter beginning November 21, when the Winterfest of Lights radiates the town during its 27th year at Northside Park. Previously named a prestigious Top 100 Event by American Bus Association and voted “Maryland’s Finest Holiday Tradition” by Maryland Life Magazine, Winterfest of Lights is a winter paradise for the whole family to enjoy.

Winterfest Express

The highlight of the event is the Winterfest Express, which takes guests on a ride through a mile-long animated wonderland of dazzling lights and spectacular displays, including the Twelve Days of Christmas and additional fairytale favorites. Christmas carols float through the air and throughout the Winterfest Village, which is located inside a festive and heated pavilion.

Café and Shopping

After the trip on the Winterfest Express, visitors can celebrate the spirit of the season by sipping hot chocolate from The OC Recreation Boosters Café or browse the Yukon Cornelius Gift Shop for that special stocking stuffer or OC souvenir. 
book-online-2

Santa & Mrs. Claus

Kids of all ages can also visit Santa with a holiday wish list and meet Mrs. Claus, who makes her second appearance at Winterfest. While. Santa is all about giving to others as a sign of appreciation, Mrs. Claus is here to spread her wisdom on staying healthy and lending a helping hand. This iconic couple will be on site to delight adults and kids alike through December 23.

Opening Ceremony 

The special opening ceremony, which kicks off at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 21, at Northside Park’s Winterfest Village at 127th Street and the bay, is free and open to the public. The ceremony features Ocean City Elementary School’s “OC Stars” performing holiday songs and dance. In addition, Mayor Rick Meehan will “flip the switch” to light the Christmas tree and officially open the Winterfest of Lights. Even Santa will make a surprise appearance for the opening ceremony, which will feature free rides on the Winterfest Express train for the remainder of the evening.

Winterfest of Lights is located at Northside Park, 125th Street & the Bay. Beginning November 21, the hours of operation will be Sunday-Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Winterfest tickets are available and can be purchased in advance at the Ocean City Community Center and the Convention Center. Admission is $5.00 for those 12 years & older and FREE for those 11 years and younger. Winterfest concludes on December 31, 2019.

With more than one million holiday lights sparkling throughout the town, Ocean City’s Winterfest of Lights will create a long lasting holiday memory for you and your family.

Trick or Treat: This week In OC

Jessica Bauer
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Trick or Treat: This week In OC

Halloween – Thursday, October 31

A waxing crescent will be all that is illuminated this Halloween. To help you make the most of your time under this special Halloween Moon, we have a list of Trick or Treat locations around Ocean City.

Trick or Treat times & Extra happenings

Town of Berlin, MD

5pm-7pm Trick-or-Treat
Haunted House at the Burbage Funeral Home
Berlin Library – Berlin, MD, 10am – 6pm trick-or-treat
Trunk-or-Treat  – Artic Heating & Air Conditioning on Washington St

Pocomoke City, MD

5pm-7pm Trick-or-Treat

Town of Snow Hill, MD

5pm-8pm Trick-or-Treat
North Washington Street will be closed between Federal and Belt streets during the event. Free candy scanning will be available from 6-8 p.m. at the Worcester County courthouse, located at 1 W. Market St.

West Ocean City, MD

4-6pm trick or treat at White Marlin Mall 

 

 

This Week In OC: Shore Craft Beer Fest – OCtoberfest

Jessica Bauer
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This Week In OC: Shore Craft Beer Fest – OCtoberfest

Amusing, entertaining, and/or satisfying will be the feelings for the week in OC! Today through the 27th will be a blast! Restaurant week continues and will end Sunday; experience great cuisine with special fixed menus and pricing.

 
Events related to Fall and Halloween are dominating our region. The Beach Maze will continue from last week’s great opening! Explore & master the maze before it is gone!
 

October 21-27, 2019

Adults, kids, squads will have plenty of options with costume parties, convention shows, and races. Click these great links to find what fits your time here in Ocean City, Maryland best!

Shore Craft Beer Fest: OCtoberfest

This Saturday! Get your tickets now for our 5th annual autumn Shore Craft Beer Fest, OCtoberfest!

Held annually on the last Saturday of October in Ocean City’s scenic Sunset Park, OCtoberfest is a celebration of great, local beer (more than 40 to taste from the Shore and beyond!), delicious food from local food trucks, and fun times with family and friends. Live music will be provided by Johnny Bling. Dogs, kids and non-drinkers are welcome, too!
General admission gate will open at 1:30 p.m. and run until 4:30. A special VIP admission will be available for those wanting an extra hour of tasting craft beer plus a t-shirt to commemorate the day! Entrance for VIPs starts at 12:30 and includes time to talk to the local brewers and start sampling a little earlier.  buy tickets

Oct 25, 2019

 
 

Oct 26, 2019

 
 

 

Looking Ahead

 
November and December in Ocean City are shaping up to be just terrific! Winterfest will have lights ready on Nov 21. Hotels are announcing their Thanksgiving packages and dinners. Ocean City is much more than a summer town, but you won’t know until you try it!
 
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