Destination Guides: Ocean City, United States - Events & Entertainment

St. Patrick's Day Parade and Festival :   Everybody is Irish in Ocean City on the weekend closest to the St. Patrick's Day Parade. There is a parade and Irish festival on Sunday.

First Weekend in May

Springfest :   The first week in May, this 4-day event features crafts, music, and food in the inlet parking lot. Lots of businesses open, as Ocean City gets ready for the summer.

First Weekend in June

Arts Alive:  Held the first week of June, this festival features a juried fine art exhibit and sale, along with music and food. It is held at the Northside Park at 127th Street and the Bay.

July

Fourth of July :   300,000 people crowd into Ocean City every Fourth. Fireworks over Assawoman Bay top off the family-style picnic held at Northside Park beginning at 1pm. A second fireworks display is held at N. Division Street at the south end of the boardwalk. Festivities start with a concert at 8pm. Fireworks at both locations starting at 9:30pm.

August

White Marlin Open:  Held the first full week in August, some 400 boats register for this annual fishing expedition. The top prize goes for the biggest white marlin, but there are other prizes for blue marlin, tuna, and shark.  410/289-9229.

September

Sunfest :   This 4-day festival held the third week in September officially ends the summer season with crafts, music, and food at the inlet.

Mid-November- New Year’s

Winterfest of Lights :   From mid-November to New Year's, two holiday light displays make up this event. The first takes place at the inlet, where you can drive among the lighted displays.

The second is in Northside Park. For a small admission charge, those 12 and older (free for younger visitors), ride the tram through the light displays and then stop to see Santa, have hot chocolate, and browse the gift shop.