Author: Taylor Harman

Country Calling 2026: FAQs, Schedule, Tips & Tricks for the Ultimate Festival Weekend

Posted on by Taylor

If you’re heading to Country Calling 2026 in Ocean City, Maryland, get ready for two days of country music, beach vibes, boardwalk fun, and some of the biggest names in country music.

Taking place October 2–3, 2026, at Ocean City Inlet Beach, Country Calling brings more than 25 artists to three stages — two on the beach and one along the boardwalk. The 2026 lineup includes major names like Lainey Wilson, Chris Stapleton, Miranda Lambert, Rascal Flatts, Dierks Bentley, Brothers Osborne, Dustin Lynch, Russell Dickerson, Travis Tritt, and Charley Crockett, along with plenty of up-and-coming artists.

But Country Calling is about more than just the music. The festival footprint includes Ocean City’s famous boardwalk, local food and businesses, and even access to Jolly Roger at the Pier.

Whether you’re attending for one day or making a full weekend out of it, this guide covers everything you need to know — including the 2026 schedule, tickets, transportation, what to bring, where to stay, and our best tips for making the most of your Country Calling weekend.

Country Calling 2026 Schedule & Lineup

Country Calling kicks off Friday, October 2, with a full day of country music across the festival’s three stages. The day builds toward a packed evening lineup featuring Travis Tritt, Russell Dickerson, Rascal Flatts, Dierks Bentley, and Lainey Wilson, with Lainey Wilson closing out the night. Earlier performances from artists including Belles, Redferrin, Kaitlin Butts, Wyatt Flores, and Noeline Hofmann give fans plenty of opportunities to discover new favorites before the evening headliners take the stage. With music starting earlier in the day and continuing into the evening, Friday is the perfect time to arrive early, explore the festival grounds, and settle into the Country Calling atmosphere.

Saturday, October 3, brings another stacked day of country music, culminating in a huge evening lineup. Fans can catch performances from Rodney Atkins, Clay Walker, Dustin Lynch, Brothers Osborne, Miranda Lambert, and Chris Stapleton, with Chris Stapleton closing out the festival. The day also features artists including The Jack Wharff Band, Jackson Dean, Charley Crockett, Carter Faith, and Jimmy Charles, making it a great mix of established stars and rising talent. If you’re attending both days, Saturday is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the festival’s beach and Boardwalk setting before settling in for the final performances of the weekend.

Country Calling 2026 FAQs

What Time Should You Get to Country Calling?

If you want to catch the early artists, plan to arrive around the time gates open rather than showing up just before the headliner.

Getting there earlier has a few advantages:

  • You’ll avoid some of the biggest entrance crowds.
  • You’ll have time to activate and check your wristband.
  • You can get familiar with the festival layout.
  • You can grab food and drinks before the busiest periods.
  • You’ll have more time to explore the Boardwalk and Jolly Roger at the Pier.
  • You won’t have to rush between parking, rideshare, and your first set.

If you’re mainly coming for one headliner, you can arrive later, but remember that transportation and entry lines can become much busier toward the evening.

How Do You Get to Country Calling?

There are several ways to get to the festival.

Driving

If you’re driving into Ocean City, official parking options include: West Ocean City Park & Ride, Ocean City Convention Center Parking Lot, and 100th Street Municipal Parking Lot. Public transportation is available from these locations to and from the festival. There are no festival parking options from North Division Street south to the Inlet, so don’t plan on simply driving right up to the festival entrance.

Rideshare

The official rideshare drop-off and pickup location is 409 Baltimore Avenue (4th Street Municipal Parking Lot). From there, it’s approximately a 5–10 minute walk to the festival grounds.  One important tip: rideshare demand will be extremely high immediately after the final performances. The festival itself recommends considering leaving early or spending some time walking the Boardwalk while the biggest rush dies down.

Walking & Biking

Walking may be one of the easiest options if you’re staying near the Boardwalk. Bike parking is available between 2nd and 3rd streets. Bring your own lock if you’re biking.

What if I don’t have a hotel booked yet? 

Don’t stress! We have a guide for you for the best hotels to book for Country Calling here.

What Should You Bring to Country Calling?

The best festival packing strategy is to pack light but prepare for changing weather. The festival grounds include sand, paved areas, boardwalk surfaces, and gravel, so comfortable footwear is essential. The festival’s own welcome guides recommend a hat, sunglasses, and a jacket for potentially chilly evenings.

Country Calling Quick Tips

Download the festival app

The festival guide includes access to the official mobile app, map, schedule, andother important information. Having these resources available on your phone makes it much easier to navigate once you’re inside.

Don’t plan every minute

It’s tempting to create a perfect schedule and race from one stage to another. Resist the urge. Leave some room to grab food, explore the Boardwalk, watch an artist you don’t know, or simply sit down for a few minutes. Some of your favorite moments may come from the performances you didn’t originally plan to see.

Wear comfortable shoes & bring layers

This might be the single most important wardrobe tip. You’re potentially walking on sand, boardwalk, pavement, and gravel for hours. Your favorite cowboy boots may look great, but make sure they’re actually comfortable enough for a full day.

October on the Maryland coast can be beautiful, but evenings can feel much cooler than the afternoon. A lightweight jacket or sweatshirt that you can carry or stash away can make a huge difference.

Eat before you’re starving

Don’t wait until you’re desperately hungry to look for food. The best places to kick back and enjoy a festival meal in our opinion has to be Harrison’s Harbor Watch & The Wedge. Located within the festival footprint, but without festival prices. Great food and drinks, plus a killer view to boot.

Pick a meeting spot & have a plan for getting home

Cell service can be unpredictable when thousands of people are concentrated in one area. If you’re attending with friends, choose a meeting point before you split up. That way, nobody has to spend an hour trying to find someone near a crowded stage.

Don’t make your transportation plan at 11 PM. If you’re using rideshare, remember that demand will be highest immediately after the final set. If you’re taking a shuttle or public transportation, know where the pickup location is before the show ends.

The Ultimate Country Calling Weekend

The best way to experience Country Calling is to think of it as more than a concert. Yes, the lineup is the main attraction. But the real appeal is combining a huge weekend of country music with everything that makes Ocean City special… the beach, the Boardwalk, local food, rides, and the laid-back atmosphere of a fall weekend at the shore. Plan your must-see artists ahead of time, but leave yourself some flexibility. Arrive early enough to get settled, wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and have a transportation plan for the end of the night.

Most importantly, don’t feel like you have to see everything. Pick a few can’t-miss performances, discover an artist you’ve never heard before, grab something good to eat, walk the Boardwalk, and enjoy being in Ocean City. That’s what makes Country Calling more than just a music festival, it’s a full weekend at the beach with a country soundtrack.

Oceans Calling 2026: FAQs, Schedule, Tips & Tricks for the Ultimate Festival Weekend

Posted on by Taylor

If you’re heading to Oceans Calling 2026 in Ocean City, Maryland, you’re in for a huge weekend of music, food, beach vibes, and plenty of time spent exploring the Ocean City Boardwalk.

The 2026 festival takes place September 25–27, 2026, at Ocean City Inlet Beach. This year’s lineup features more than 40 performances across three stages, with headliners including Dave Matthews Band, Twenty One Pilots, and Mumford & Sons.

Whether this is your first Oceans Calling or you’re returning for another year, this guide covers the essentials: the schedule, FAQs, what to bring, transportation, tickets, and some of the best tricks for making the most of your festival weekend.

Oceans Calling 2026 Schedule

The official 2026 schedule is now available, so it’s worth studying it before you arrive rather than trying to figure everything out once you’re inside. Keep them saved on your photo camera roll for easy access, plus then you’re not worrying about phone service issues trying to access the internet.

A good strategy is to divide your lineup into three categories:

  • Must see: Artists you absolutely don’t want to miss.
  • Would love to see: Artists you’ll catch if the timing works.
  • Discovery: Artists you’re willing to see simply because they’re nearby.

This gives you a plan without turning the weekend into a military operation.

Friday features a packed mix of alternative, rock, pop, hip-hop, and singer-songwriter performances, culminating in Dave Matthews Band.

Some of the day’s artists include King Stingray, Better Than Ezra, Gavin DeGraw, Everlast, Shaggy, O.A.R., Yellowcard, Hootie & the Blowfish, and Dave Matthews Band.

Saturday brings another stacked lineup, including Goo Goo Dolls, Third Eye Blind, All Time Low, 311, Dashboard Confessional, Violent Femmes, and more, with Twenty One Pilots taking the headline slot.

Sunday rounds out the weekend with performances from Caamp, My Morning Jacket, The Head and the Heart, Hanson, OK Go, Susan Hoffs, Jet, and others, followed by Mumford & Sons.

Pro tip: Don’t build your entire day around one headliner. Oceans Calling has three stages, and some of the most memorable performances can come from artists you didn’t originally plan to see.

Oceans Calling 2026 FAQs

Where is Oceans Calling?

Oceans Calling takes place at Ocean City Inlet Beach in Ocean City, Maryland, with the festival centered around the southern end of the famous Ocean City Boardwalk.

What time does the festival start?

The ticket information lists a 12:00 PM show time, but individual artist performance times vary throughout the day. Always check the official schedule before heading out.

Can children attend Oceans Calling?

Yes. Children 8 and under can enter the GA areas free with a ticketed adult. Premium ticket tiers can have different child-ticket rules, so check your specific ticket type before arriving.

What if I don’t have a hotel booked yet?

No stress! We have a complete guide for you here.

What can I bring?

Pay close attention to the bag policy before leaving for the festival. The safest approach is to bring as little as possible and use an approved small bag or hydration pack.

For things not allowed, check out the festival’s page here.

Some Oceans Calling 2026 Tips & Tricks

Arrive earlier than you think

If you want to see an early-afternoon performance, don’t plan on walking through the entrance five minutes before showtime.

Give yourself extra time for:

  • Parking or rideshare drop-off
  • Security
  • Wristband issues
  • Finding the correct stage
  • Bathroom stops
  • Getting food or water

Getting there early also gives you time to understand the layout before the crowds become heavier.

Wear comfortable shoes

This sounds obvious, but it’s one of the most important festival tips. You’ll potentially be walking on pavement, boardwalk, sand, and other surfaces for hours. Your favorite stylish shoes may not be your favorite shoes after eight hours. Comfort wins!

Prepare for changing weather

Ocean City in late September can be beautiful, but beach weather can change. Pack layers and check the forecast before leaving each morning. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light outer layer are smart choices. Don’t forget that you’re near the ocean. Wind can make an otherwise comfortable evening feel considerably cooler.

Use the Boardwalk strategically

One of the biggest advantages of Oceans Calling is that you’re in Ocean City rather than an isolated festival field. Use that to your advantage. If you have downtime between sets, explore the Boardwalk rather than standing around waiting for the next artist. Grab food (we recommend Harbor Watch or The Wedge), check out the shops, or enjoy the attractions around the festival grounds. Jolly Roger at the Pier is also part of the festival experience. 

Don’t schedule every minute

It’s tempting to create a perfect itinerary where you bounce from one stage to another all day. That’s usually when festivals stop being fun. Leave some gaps in your schedule. You might discover an artist you weren’t expecting to love, spend longer at a food vendor, or simply sit down and take a break.

Establish a meeting point

Cell service can become unreliable when you’re surrounded by thousands of people. Before splitting up with your friends, establish a meeting place. Better yet, decide on a specific time to reconnect rather than relying entirely on texting.

Take advantage of premium areas if you value comfort

Oceans Calling offers several ticket levels, including GA, GA+, VIP, Platinum, and higher-end experiences. For example, GA+ includes access to a shaded lounge, upgraded air-conditioned restrooms, a private bar, complimentary canned water, and hospitality staff.  VIP and Platinum add additional viewing and lounge benefits, although viewing areas can have capacity limits and seating is generally first-come, first-served. 

If you’re attending all three days, consider how much you’ll value somewhere comfortable to recharge between sets.

Don’t forget your phone battery

Your phone becomes your:

  • Camera
  • Schedule
  • Map
  • Communication device
  • Ticket/wristband companion
  • Emergency contact

A portable battery is one of the easiest things you can bring that can save you from a major headache.

Make the Most of Oceans Calling 2026

Oceans Calling is more than three days of incredible music, it’s a chance to experience Ocean City at one of the most exciting times of the year. From catching your favorite artists and discovering new ones to enjoying the Boardwalk, beach, local food, and everything else OCMD has to offer, a little planning can make your weekend that much better. And when the last song of the night is over, there’s nothing better than knowing you have a comfortable place to come back to. OCMD Hotels makes it easy to find the right place to stay for your Oceans Calling weekend, so you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the music, the beach, and the memories that make Ocean City special. Plan your schedule, pack your festival essentials, book your stay, and get ready for an unforgettable Oceans Calling 2026 weekend in OCMD.

September Events In Ocean City, Maryland

Posted on by Taylor

September is one of the best times to visit Ocean City, Maryland. The busy summer season begins to wind down, but the town is still packed with live music, festivals, outdoor activities, family-friendly events, and plenty of reasons to enjoy the beach.

If you’re planning an Ocean City getaway this September, we’ve put together a handy September events calendar for Ocean City, MD, featuring some of the biggest events happening throughout the month.

From motorcycle enthusiasts and colorful kites to major music festivals, there’s something happening for just about everyone.

Ready to Experience Ocean City This September?

Don’t wait until the last minute to book your stay. Find the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring Ocean City’s beaches, Boardwalk, and September events.

Make your plans today and book your stay in Ocean City, MD! Whether you’re coming for Oceans Calling, Bikefest, the Kite Festival, or simply a relaxing fall beach getaway, we’d love to welcome you.

August in Ocean City: Your Guide to the Biggest Events of the Summer

Posted on by Taylor

If you’re planning a trip to Ocean City this August, you’re in for one of the most exciting months of the year. From live entertainment and family-friendly activities to world-class fishing and waterfront events, there’s something happening every week.

Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or an extended beach vacation, our August Activities Calendar is your go-to guide for making the most of your stay.

The 53rd Annual White Marlin Open

The highlight of the month is undoubtedly the 53rd Annual White Marlin Open, often called the Super Bowl of Ocean City. Every August, anglers from around the world compete in one of the largest and richest billfish tournaments on the planet, creating an exciting atmosphere throughout town.

From watching the tournament fleet depart before sunrise to experiencing the afternoon weigh-ins, the White Marlin Open is more than a fishing tournament—it’s one of Ocean City’s most beloved traditions. Check out this blog post from our archives for more information on the tournament, and don’t forget about our kick off party Monday morning at The Wedge.

More August Events to Enjoy

The fun doesn’t stop with the White Marlin Open. August is packed with activities for visitors of all ages, including:

  • Live music and entertainment
  • Family-friendly events and activities
  • Beach and boardwalk happenings
  • Outdoor festivals
  • Local dining specials and happy hours
  • Sunset cruises and waterfront adventures

No matter your vacation style, there’s always something happening around Ocean City.

Plan Your Stay

With so much to see and do, August is one of the best times to visit Ocean City. Be sure to check our August Activities Calendar to stay up to date on everything happening during your stay, and don’t miss your chance to experience the energy, excitement, and traditions that make summer in Ocean City so memorable.

From relaxing days on the beach to unforgettable events like the 53rd Annual White Marlin Open, August is the perfect time to make lasting memories with family and friends.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Ocean City for another incredible month by the beach!

July Events in Ocean City, Maryland: Summer Fun Every Day

Posted on by Taylor

July is one of the best times to visit Ocean City, Maryland, with exciting events happening all month long. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a weekend getaway, or a beach day, there’s always something to enjoy.

Celebrate Independence Day with spectacular Fourth of July fireworks lighting up the beach and Northside Park. Throughout the month, visitors can also enjoy free weekly favorites like Sundaes in the Park, featuring live music, ice cream, and fireworks every Sunday evening. Other popular summer traditions include Movies on the Beach, outdoor concerts, family-friendly craft events, and live entertainment along the Boardwalk. More info on town events can be found here.

With sunshine, ocean breezes, and activities for all ages, July is the perfect time to experience everything Ocean City has to offer. Ready to experience all the excitement of July events in Ocean City? Book your stay today and enjoy easy access to the beach, Boardwalk, and all the month’s unforgettable events. Reserve your accommodations now and start planning your perfect summer getaway!

Traveling Together: The New Way to Celebrate Life’s Biggest Moments

Posted on by Taylor

Friends and family are discovering a more meaningful way to celebrate life’s biggest milestones, and it doesn’t involve stressing over cleaning the house, planning the perfect party, or finding the ideal gift. Instead, more people are choosing group travel celebrations, family reunion vacations, and getaways to mark special occasions. From milestone birthdays to anniversary trips, the focus has shifted from giving things to creating memories together.

At its core, this trend reflects a simple truth: most of us don’t need more stuff. What we truly value is quality time, meaningful connections, and shared experiences with the people we love.

Why Travel Is the Perfect Celebration Gift

Travel creates a natural pause from everyday routines. It gives us permission to be fully present, disconnect from daily responsibilities, and focus on the moment.

What was once a dinner reservation or a gathering at someone’s home is now an opportunity to escape together. More families and friend groups are turning special occasions into memorable travel experiences.

Popular celebration trips we’re helping plan include:

  • Milestone birthdays and anniversary vacations
  • Mother-daughter and father-son trips
  • Girls’ getaways and guys’ weekends
  • Cousins’ trips
  • Gaming retreats
  • Fantasy football draft weekends and retreats
  • Family reunion vacations
  • Multi-generational family trips

How Group Travel Creates More Meaningful Experiences

Turning an event into a destination experience elevates the celebration in ways a traditional gathering simply can’t.

By removing everyone from the everyday chaos of life, people become more present, relaxed, and engaged. Conversations flow more naturally, connections deepen, and shared memories are created without the distractions of work, errands, and household responsibilities.

One of the biggest benefits is eliminating the pressure of hosting. Instead of one person carrying the burden of planning meals, activities, accommodations, and entertainment, hotel and resort event teams can help coordinate the details.

Many properties offer:

  • Group room blocks
  • Private dining experiences
  • Meet-and-greet events
  • Activity planning
  • Event coordination
  • Housekeeping and room service

This allows everyone—including the guest of honor—to simply enjoy the experience.

Choosing the Best Destination for a Group Celebration

When planning a celebration trip, the destination should encourage togetherness.

Look for accommodations that maximize opportunities to gather and connect, such as:

  • Specialty suites and penthouses
  • Large patios and outdoor decks
  • Hotels with fire pits, lounges, and gathering areas (DoubleTree & Holiday Inn Oceanfront are great options here!)
  • Resorts offering private event spaces

These shared spaces often become the heart of the trip. A morning coffee can turn into an hour-long conversation. Late-night snacks can evolve into game nights, storytelling sessions, and laughter-filled memories.

Often, it’s the spontaneous in-between moments—not the planned activities—that become the most meaningful parts of the experience.

The Growing Trend of Experiential Celebrations

As more people prioritize experiences over possessions, celebration travel continues to grow in popularity. Whether it’s a milestone birthday trip, family reunion vacation, anniversary getaway, or friends’ retreat, the goal is the same: spending intentional time together.

In a world where schedules are busy and time feels increasingly limited, being present with the people who matter most is one of the greatest gifts we can give each other.

Traveling together isn’t just a way to celebrate, it’s becoming the new way to celebrate.

This blog has been written by Sara S. Simon, Corporate Director of Sales for the Harrison Group Resort Hotels & Restaurants. For more information on having your event in Ocean City, visit our Group Sales website here. You can also read our past event posts about outdoor event spaces and even why you should reconsider off-season events.

5 Pool Bars Everyone Loves In Ocean City, Maryland

Posted on by Taylor

When summer arrives in Ocean City, Maryland, there’s nothing better than grabbing a cold drink, soaking up the sunshine, and enjoying the laid-back beach atmosphere at one of the resort town’s legendary pool bars. Whether you’re looking for a swim-up bar, live music, tropical cocktails, or a relaxing afternoon by the water, Ocean City offers some incredible options.

Here are five pool bars that locals and visitors return to year after year.

The Original Pool Bar

Located at the Holiday Inn Oceanfront on 67th Street, The Original Pool Bar is often considered the gold standard of pool bars in Ocean City. This iconic destination helped popularize the swim-up pool bar experience in Maryland and remains one of the most recognizable poolside hangouts in town. The recently renovated pool area features a swim-up bar, outdoor seating, fire pits, and plenty of space to relax with friends and family. Guests love the tropical drinks, oceanfront setting, and lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of a classic Ocean City vacation.

Deep End Pool Bar

Situated along the Boardwalk at the Holiday Inn & Suites 17th Street, Deep End Pool Bar offers elevated views of the Atlantic Ocean and a relaxing escape just steps from the beach. The venue combines refreshing cocktails, Caribbean-inspired fare, and stunning ocean views to create a true vacation vibe. Whether you’re taking a break from the beach or spending the afternoon poolside, Deep End delivers the perfect blend of relaxation.

Mañana Mode

Located at the Hilton Oceanfront Suites on 32nd Street, Mañana Mode has quickly become one of the hottest poolside destinations in Ocean City. The laid-back atmosphere encourages guests to slow down and embrace vacation mode. One of its biggest draws is the swim-up bar, where visitors can enjoy handcrafted cocktails without ever leaving the water. Live music, oceanfront scenery, and excellent service make it a favorite among both hotel guests and day visitors.

Sandshark Pool Bar

For travelers looking for a hidden gem, Sandshark Pool Bar offers a more relaxed and intimate poolside experience. Located at the DoubleTree Ocean City, guests can enjoy cocktails, crushes, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers while lounging beside the pool. Many visitors appreciate the quieter atmosphere compared to larger resort pool bars, making it a great choice for those seeking a more laid-back afternoon. Its reputation as a local favorite continues to grow among Ocean City regulars.

Caribbean Pool Bar

Located behind the Plim Plaza Hotel on 2nd Street and the Boardwalk, Caribbean Pool Bar has been serving tropical vibes in Ocean City since 1996. Known for its live music, frozen drinks, and casual beach atmosphere, it’s one of the most beloved pool bars downtown. Visitors can enjoy local bands, beach-inspired cocktails, and poolside dining while soaking up the sunshine. Its convenient location near the Boardwalk makes it a must-visit stop during any Ocean City vacation.

Creating Memorable Event Experiences: How to Deliver a “Wow” Moment Without Increasing Your Budget

Posted on by Taylor

Creating a memorable event experience does not require booking a celebrity guest or hiring an expensive keynote speaker. In fact, many of the most impactful moments at corporate events, conferences, and meetings are surprisingly budget-friendly. The secret lies in designing intentional, well-timed touchpoints throughout the attendee journey rather than relying on one grand gesture.

Thoughtful event planning, immersive experiences, and purposeful details create excitement and leave a lasting impression on attendees. The best part? Delivering a “wow” moment often costs far less than planners expect.

Make the Most of the Arrival Experience

The attendee experience begins the moment guests arrive. Before any presentations, meetings, or activities start, attendees are already forming opinions about your event. A warm welcome combined with an engaging arrival experience can instantly set the tone for the entire program.

Consider offering a signature beverage, local refreshment, or interactive welcome station. These simple additions help attendees transition from a hectic travel day into a more relaxed mindset, preparing them to fully engage with the event ahead. Hosting your welcome reception in an unexpected venue, such as a pool deck, rooftop terrace, or outdoor gathering space, can further elevate the first impression with minimal additional investment.

Transform Event Breaks Into Engagement Opportunities

One of the easiest ways to enhance event engagement is by rethinking traditional break times. Instead of offering a standard coffee station, create moments of discovery that energize attendees and encourage interaction.

Interactive food stations, locally inspired menu items, live culinary demonstrations, or opportunities to explore a different event space can make breaks feel like part of the experience rather than a pause in the agenda. These small enhancements keep attendees engaged, refreshed, and excited about what’s coming next.

Create Meaningful Connections Through Event Design

The most successful events foster genuine connections. While personalization is often viewed as expensive or complex, it is usually rooted in something much simpler: understanding attendee needs and creating opportunities for authentic interaction.

Changing the environment throughout the event can have a significant impact. Smaller breakout sessions, off-site venues, private dining rooms, penthouse suites, or unique meeting spaces create a different atmosphere that encourages conversation and collaboration.

By varying the scale and setting of your event, attendees experience a sense of intimacy and exclusivity that naturally supports networking, relationship building, and productive discussions.

Don’t Overlook the Departure Experience

Just as arrival presents an opportunity to make an impression, departure offers one final chance to reinforce the attendee experience. Yet the closing moments of an event are often overlooked during the planning process.

A thoughtful send-off can leave a lasting impact long after attendees return home. Simple gestures such as curated snack boxes for travel, locally sourced gifts, handwritten notes, or destination-inspired keepsakes demonstrate appreciation and create a positive final memory.

When attendees feel acknowledged and valued, those feelings often shape how they remember the entire event experience.

Great Event Design Is About Intentionality, Not Spending

Creating a wow-worthy event is not about spending more, it’s about designing better. The most memorable corporate events are built on a series of intentional moments that flow seamlessly from one experience to the next.

Successful event planners understand how to leverage environment, timing, and thoughtful details to elevate an event beyond the agenda. Their role extends far beyond filling a schedule; they shape experiences that feel effortless, engaging, and memorable.

When every touchpoint is designed with purpose, attendees leave feeling connected, inspired, and eager to return for the next event.

This blog has been written by Sara S. Simon, Corporate Director of Sales for the Harrison Group Resort Hotels & Restaurants. For more information on having your event in Ocean City, visit our Group Sales website here. You can also read our past event posts about outdoor event spaces and even why you should reconsider off-season events.

Beyond the Walls: Why Outdoor Event Spaces Are Transforming Conferences & Elevating the Guest Experience

Posted on by Taylor

One of the most exciting trends in modern event planning is the intentional use of outdoor spaces as an extension of the meeting experience. From intimate courtyards and casual fire pits to open-air patios and scenic terraces, planners are incorporating outdoor environments to create more engaging, wellness-focused events.

Stepping beyond the traditional four walls of a conference room brings new energy to any gathering. Fresh air, natural light, and open surroundings encourage organic conversation and help attendees feel more relaxed and connected. Even a brief session on a sunlit terrace can increase participation, inspire creativity, and provide a sense of rejuvenation that enhances the overall event experience.

Outdoor event spaces also help meetings and conferences stand out. Unique experiences such as sunset cocktail receptions, fireside networking lounges, or interactive s’mores stations create memorable moments that attendees continue talking about long after the event concludes. These thoughtful additions elevate a standard program into an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Nontraditional meeting spaces continue to grow in popularity because they naturally foster collaboration and engagement. Lounge-style patios, walk-and-talk sessions, beachside breaks, and outdoor networking areas encourage attendees to connect in more meaningful ways while creating space for inspiration and creativity.

When guests feel comfortable, valued, and cared for, they are more likely to participate, collaborate, and engage deeply with the event content and each other. That connection is what transforms a successful meeting into an unforgettable experience.

By embracing outdoor venues and open-air gathering spaces, planners can give attendees the freedom to step away from expectations and into environments that inspire comfort, creativity, and authentic connection. The result is a more impactful event experience that attendees will remember long after returning to their daily routines.

This blog has been written by Sara S. Simon, Corporate Director of Sales for the Harrison Group Resort Hotels & Restaurants. For more information on having your event in Ocean City, please click here. Also check out this past blog post on catering trends or this one about rethinking off-season events.

Country Calling Festival 2026 Lineup Is Announced — Here’s Why You Should Book Your Hotel Now

Posted on by Taylor

The countdown is on, the Country Calling Festival 2026 lineup has officially dropped, and excitement is already building for a standout weekend in Ocean City.

Set right along the famous Ocean City Boardwalk, this two-day beachfront festival has quickly made a name for itself as one of the top country music events on the East Coast. And if past years are any indication, nearby hotels won’t stay available for long.

Here’s what to know — and why now is the perfect time to plan your stay.

Country Calling Festival 2026 Lineup Delivers Big Names

Since launching, Country Calling has brought together a mix of superstar headliners, fan-favorite performers, and rising country artists across multiple stages set directly on the sand. This year, enjoy sets by Lainey Wilson, Rascal Flats, Dierks Bentley, Chris Stapleton and more.

The 2026 lineup continues that momentum, featuring a blend of established icons and today’s biggest country hits. Whether you’re into classic country sounds or modern chart-toppers, this year’s schedule promises nonstop energy all weekend long.

With massive crowds expected once again, hotel demand during festival dates will be extremely competitive.

Why Booking Early Gives You the Edge

Once the lineup is announced, hotel availability starts shrinking fast. Make sure to check out our past blog post on where to stay. Here’s why it pays to book sooner rather than later:

1. Be Steps from the Festival
Boardwalk and oceanfront hotels are always the first to go. Reserving early increases your chances of staying within walking distance, so you can skip traffic and avoid the hassle of finding parking.

2. More Options to Choose From
From oceanfront rooms to group-friendly suites and mid-town properties, booking ahead gives you access to the best selection before choices become limited.

3. Secure Better Pricing
As rooms fill up, nightly rates tend to climb. Locking in your reservation early can help you avoid price spikes and stay within budget.

Turn It Into a Full Ocean City Getaway

Country Calling is more than just a concert, it’s a full beachside experience. Spend your days relaxing by the ocean, grab food and drinks along the boardwalk, and enjoy live music just steps from the shore. (Don’t miss out on Harrison’s Harbor Watch & The Wedge, right inside the festival grounds!)

When the final set wraps up each night, having a nearby hotel makes it easy to unwind without dealing with crowds or transportation delays. Planning ahead means you can focus on enjoying the entire weekend, not scrambling to find a place to stay.

Rooms will become harder to find as the festival approaches. Book early and get ready for an incredible weekend of country music, coastal views, and boardwalk energy at Country Calling Festival 2026!

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