Your Guide to Fourth of July Weekend in Ocean City, Maryland

Nothing can compare to the sight of fireworks over the nighttime waves of Ocean City, Maryland. The classic beach-town charm builds a magical atmosphere for the perfect Fourth of July celebration. From the iconic downtown fireworks to hidden gems such as the Chesapeake Ghost Walk, Ocean City has just about everything to offer! 

The firework show in downtown Ocean City is one of two simultaneous firework displays on the Fourth of July. The celebration will begin at 8:00 p.m. on the beach when DJ Kutt takes the Caroline Street Stage. The official show is expected to begin at 9:30 p.m. over the ocean, so don’t forget to bring a blanket and beach chair!

At Northside Park, 125th Street and the bay, a separate firework show will take place at the same time as the downtown celebration. Radio Ocean City will kick off the northern event at with DJ entertainment from 8:00 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. “Northside Park is the perfect place for families to watch the colorful displays light up the evening sky and lagoon,” said Mayor Rick Meehan. “We encourage spectators to get there early to claim their spot to watch the fireworks.”

It is important to keep in mind that parking will be very limited throughout the day. The Inlet Lot will have a rate of $6 per hour, but it is suggested to take a bus. The bus will run from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. and provide ride all-day passes for $4. Anybody on the road should expect delays due to heavy traffic.

Other Weekend Events in Ocean City

Ocean City is always buzzing with exciting places to go and unforgettable experiences, but July 5th and 6th have a variety of special events you won’t want to miss. 

Ocean Pines Farmers and Artisans Market

On July 5th, Ocean Pines is proud to open the Farmers and Artisans Market, where you can find one-of-a-kind goods and enjoy the cozy atmosphere of White Horse Park! It’s the perfect place to find fresh produce and locally handcrafted items while supporting one of Ocean City’s communities. If you’re looking for a getaway from the weekend crowds, the Farmers and Artisans Market should be on your list of places to go. The event runs from 8:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday. 

Chesapeake Ghost Tours

Locally owned since 2014, Chesapeake Ghost Tours presents one of nine locations right here in historic Ocean City! From 8:00 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. on Saturday night, guests will be taken on a journey through the very streets on which haunting stories take place. The tour will uncover stories of eerie local legends and unexplained occurrences throughout the town’s history. Can you brave the secrets of Ocean City’s paranormal? 

Camel and Ostrich Races

For an event you won’t forget, visit Ocean Downs Casino to watch camels and ostriches live on the race track! The event is well-organized and focuses on the safety of both the animals and attendees. Seating is available, but standing areas provide great views of the action as well. It’s recommended to arrive early, as parking and seating can fill quickly! Watch the races on Saturday between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.

Sundaes in the Park

On Sunday evening from 7:00 to 9:00, Northside Park is the ultimate destination for kids and adults alike! Free live music spanning across many genres is only one of the park’s excellent entertainment options. Kids can play while you indulge in ice cream or a featured beverage under a stunning sunset view. Whether you’re ending your weekend or just getting started, Sundaes in the Park is a perfect way to enjoy a summer evening.

Marlin Moon Featured Cocktails

Marlin Moon’s special July cocktail menu features refreshing, summer-inspired drinks crafted to celebrate the season. The featured highlight is a vibrant blend of Tito’s Vodka, blue curaçao, cherry juice, and sparkling lemonade. Keep an eye out for additional limited-time cocktails that showcase bold flavors, seasonal ingredients, and the spirit of summer in every sip.

Juneteenth Spotlight: Germantown School

Berlin’s Germantown School Community Heritage Center stands as a powerful testament to African American resilience, collective action, and hope—a perfect anchor for a Juneteenth reflection. Located outside of Ocean City, a short drive from the beach brings you to this important piece of local history in Berlin, Maryland.

A Rosenwald Legacy of Learning

  • Built in 1922 under the pioneering Rosenwald Rural School program—co-created by Booker T. Washington and Julius Rosenwald—the Germantown School is one of just 5,000 Rosenwald schools constructed across the South
  • Designed in the Tuskegee two-room style, it served grades 1–7 until closing in the 1950s
  • After decades of use as a county garage, the local community reclaimed and restored the building in 2000–2013 through public/private partnerships and volunteer effort—reflecting the same unity that created it

Reawakening a Community Hub

Today, the restored school is a vibrant heritage center. What began with reclaimed desks, books, and even a school stove has grown into:

  • A museum chronicling early 20th‑century African American education within the Rosenwald movement
  • Ongoing exhibits that change monthly—from highlighting local women activists to preserving Negro League legacies
  • A restored orchard and pollinator gardens—echoes of student‑led canning, healing herb use, and a once-bustling schoolyard alive with butterflies
  • Hands-on events: summer fun festivals with train rides, petting zoos, museum tours, lectures on veterans and entrepreneurship, and summer concerts. Don’t miss this Saturday’s Summer Fun Kickoff held June 21st from 11am to 3pm.

Juneteenth: Freedom Rooted in the Community

Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people in Texas (June 19, 1865), symbolizing delayed but resolute freedom. It celebrates education, cultural expression, and community empowerment.

At Germantown School, Juneteenth resonates deeply because:

  1. It celebrates educational liberation. The very concept of Rosenwald schools was rooted in breaking the constraints of oppressive Jim Crow-era educational inequality.
  2. It honors shared effort. Just as freed people built new lives on cooperation and hope, Berlin’s community resurrected its school through shared vision and work.
  3. It nurtures cultural identity. Center programs recalling traditional herbal wisdom, gospel roots, and oral histories reconnect present-day families to their heritage.
  4. It sustains forward momentum. Each Juneteenth added to the school can be a moment to recommit—to celebrate surviving, thriving, and lifting future generations.

Why It Matters

Connecting Juneteenth to the Germantown School isn’t just symbolic—it’s a living continuity of African American resilience. Every conversation, herb planted, story told, or song sung reconnects us to a legacy of resistance and progress at the very site that embodies it. This summer, enjoy the beaches but also learn more about the are

Berlin’s little two-room school is more than a museum—it’s a living classroom. On Juneteenth, it becomes an even more profound space: where memory meets promise, where education becomes emancipation, and where a community’s past fuels its future. Growing from hard-won freedom, Germantown School reminds us that lasting liberty starts with learning—and thrives through community.

To learn more about the school or to visit, check out their website at https://thegermantownschool.org/.

The school is located 10223 Trappe Road, Berlin MD and 501(c)(3).

Check out last here’s blog post about Juneteenth on Delmarva here.

2025 OCMD Hotels Photo Contest Is Back!

The Shoot Your Stay Photo Contest is Back – and Bigger Than Ever!

Get ready to dive into another summer of unforgettable memories — the Shoot Your Stay Photo Contest returns for its third year! Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just love snapping photos on your phone, this is your chance to showcase your Ocean City adventure in a whole new way.

This summer, we’re inviting you to capture the magic of Ocean City — from golden sunrises and breezy beach walks to poolside cocktails and evening boardwalk strolls. Whether you’re surfing at sunrise, building sandcastles with the kids, or soaking in the view with your favorite people, every moment is a memory worth sharing and give you a chance to win big!

How To Join The Fun:

Submission Dates: Friday, May 16 – Sunday, October 5
Participating Hotels:
Hilton Oceanfront Suites, Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, DoubleTree Oceanfront, Courtyard by Marriott, Holiday Inn Oceanfront, Quality Inn Oceanfront, Quality Inn Boardwalk, Dunes Suites, Dunes Court, Plim Plaza, Harrison Hall, Flagship, Seabonay, and Oceanic Motel.

 How to Submit Your Photos:

  • Tag @OCMDHotels or a participating hotel on social media
  • Send a direct message with your photo
  • Or upload your entry directly at OCMDHotels.com/photocontest

Contest Details:

  • Grand Prize Winner: Chosen by public vote on OCMDHotels.com/photocontest
  • Finalists: One winner will be selected from each participating property and announced in early October.

What You Could Win:

  • Grand Prize: A 3-night stay at an OCMDHotels.com property in 2025, a $250 gift card to OCMDRestaurants.com, and an exclusive OCMDHotels.com swag bag
  • Finalists: A 1-night stay at the hotel you entered with and a swag bag

Terms and conditions apply. Prizes are not redeemable for cash, are subject to availability, and may not be used during holiday weeks. Submitting photos gives consent for photos to be used for marketing purposes in print, social media and other forms of advertising.

Go ahead, capture the magic, soak in the sun, and share your favorite moments. Your perfect Ocean City photo could win you the ultimate beachside escape in 2025.

Submit your best shots today at OCMDHotels.com/photocontest — we can’t wait to see Ocean City through your lens!

Updated Boardwalk Rock Lineup

Concert week is finally here! If you’re looking for the perfect mix of sun, sand, and rock, the Boardwalk Rock Festival in Ocean City, Maryland delivers all that and more. Held right on the sand along the iconic Ocean City Boardwalk, this inaugural event is celebration of live music, local flavor, and East Coast beach culture. Checkout the updated Boardwalk Rock lineup below.

Whether you’re a die-hard rock fan or just visiting for the weekend, here’s why this festival is one of the best reasons to get to Ocean City this weekend.

The Lineup & Stages

Big names rock the stages! The Boardwalk Rock lineup boasts on Saturday its Rob Zombie, Bush, Flyleaf, Halestorm and closing the night is Def Leppard. On Sunday, rock legend Alice Cooper takes the stage along with Shinedown, Bret Michaels, Three Days Grace and Nickleback.

More Than Just Music

Beyond the incredible performances, the Boardwalk Rock Festival offers an array of activities for attendees. Visitors can explore:

  • Merchandise Booths – Snag exclusive festival gear and band memorabilia.
  • Beach & Boardwalk Fun – Take a break from the music and enjoy Ocean City’s famous beaches, arcades, and amusement rides.
  • Check out Dining Options – Ocean City favorites like Harrison’s Harbor Watch and The Wedge Bar are located inside the festival footprint. Enjoy great food and drink during the festival there!

The Vibe: Pure Ocean City Fun

This isn’t your average music festival. Set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, the Boardwalk Rock Festival blends beachside relaxation with high-energy entertainment. Between sets, stroll the boardwalk to grab an orange crush for the Wedge bar or sit down for a Maryland crabcake at Harrison’s Harbor Watch.

Families, couples, and groups of friends all come together in a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere that’s fun for all ages, with plenty of photo ops, local vendors, and activities for kids and adults alike.

Tips for Festival-Goers

  • Arrive early for the best seating and parking options.
  • Bring sunscreen, a beach towel, and a light jacket—it cools off at night!
  • Stay overnight! Last minute hotel rooms are available, click here to find one!
  • Check the official festival schedule below and ahead of time to catch your favorite bands.
  • See the map below for the bus routes and entrances.

Don’t Miss Out on the Fun!

Whether you’re visiting from out of town or a longtime fan of Ocean City, the Boardwalk Rock Festival is an unbeatable way to experience the beach, the boardwalk, and a full day (or weekend) of unforgettable music. With a friendly crowd, nonstop energy, and a picture-perfect setting, it’s the kind of event that makes Ocean City memories last a lifetime.

Your Guide To Springfest 2025

Get ready to celebrate at Springfest 2025! From April 24-27, this beloved festival brings four days of live music, incredible shopping, delicious food, and exciting activities—all with FREE admission. There are over 30 free bands as well as ticked performances for entertainment, unique artisan vendors, and special 150th-anniversary celebrations. Mark your calendar and join us for a can’t-miss weekend!

Thursday-Saturday 10:00am – 8pm, Sunday 10:00am – 6pm

With the inlet lot being closed for this event, parking will be sure to fill up fast. If you’re staying at one of our hotels, consider using the city’s bus service or even taking a stroll down the boardwalk to Springfest. The event is rain or shine, so remember to dress for the conditions!

If you’re still looking for lodging options, Plim Plaza and The Oceanic are only steps away from Springfest! Visit our page on hotels for more information.

Live Music

Not only are there over 30 free live performances on the two main stages, there is also ticketed headliners to bring the fun to Ocean City! Visit the full lineup and purchase tickets here.

Thursday: STRANGELOVE The Depeche Mode Experience 7pm

Friday: Hunter Hayes 7pm

Saturday: The Legendary Wailers feat. Junior Marvin & Passafire 6pm

Shopping, Vendors, & Food!

One of the best reasons to come to Springfest is walking through all the tents of artisans and merchants! You can find 8 tents featuring over 200 vendors each, with everything from jewelry and garden sculptures to dog accessories and bath products.

Another favorite reason you’ll find locals and tourists alike at Springfest has to be the food! You can find anything from fresh seafood, Korean and Asian specialties, pit beef, Philly cheesesteaks, gourmet sausages, deep-fried candy bars, soft pretzels, and so much more! Enjoy onsite, or go browsing for things to take home for later!  Vendors will also be on-site selling jams, Amish goods, seasonings, olive oils, and other delicious treats.

Other Fun Can’t-Miss Things at Springfest 2025!

Experience a variety of events including a sea glass workshop, yoga on the beach, outdoor games, and a fun scavenger hunt. In celebration of Ocean City’s 150th anniversary, enjoy a stunning flower wall, hands-on workshops, and the 150th Walk of Years showcasing historic photos and exhibits. You also don’t want to miss the OC Stars performance, which is one of Springfest’s annual traditions.

Country Calling Lineup is Announced!

​Country Calling is back for year two and its looking and better than ever! The Country Calling Festival is set to return to Ocean City, Maryland, from October 3 to 5, 2025. This event has moved to a three-day event over two days last year and will feature over 25 country artists. These artists will performing across three stages: two on the beach and one along the boardwalk. Who can forget last year’s amazing weather as country’s top artist graced the stage.

This year’s lineup includes renowned artists such as Carrie Underwood, Brooks & Dunn, Luke Bryan, Jordan Davis, Gabby Barrett, and closing out the show on Sunday is Luke Combs. ​

Presale tickets will be available starting at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025. For more details on ticket options and to sign up for the presale, visit the official festival website.​

In addition to the musical performances, attendees can enjoy offerings from boardwalk businesses within the festival area, including restaurants, bars, and variety shops. The festival grounds also encompass Jolly Roger at the Pier, featuring amusement park rides and games.

Now’s the time to reserve your hotel reservations, with several great opportunities available close to the venue. Just steps from the entrance gates, check out the Oceanic Motel at the Inlet and the Plim Plaza Hotel on Second Street. Further down along the boardwalk, check out the Harrison Hall hotel and Courtyard by Marriott hotel on 15th street. Keep walking down the boardwalk and you’ll find the Quality Inn Boardwalk on 16th street and the Holiday Inn & Suites on 17th street. Before leaving the boardwalk, you will find the Flagship Hotel on 26th street, Dune SuitesDunes Court and the Seabonay on 27th street. All are perfect locations for concert attendees in Ocean City, Maryland! 

For the latest updates and additional information, refer to the official website, CountryCallingFestival.com

Country Calling 2025 Dates Announced

Big news today for country music fans! Promoters announced today that the festival will be a three day event, adding an extra day over last year. The 2025 festival is scheduled for October 3-5, 2025. While the lineup for 2025 has not yet been announced, attendees can expect a similar format with multiple stages and a diverse selection of country artists.

The Country Calling Festival is an annual country music event held in Ocean City, Maryland. The inaugural festival took place on October 4-5, 2024, featuring over 25 artists performing across three stages—two on the beach and one along the boardwalk.

Now’s the time to reserve your hotel reservations, with several great opportunities available close to the venue. Just steps from the entrance gates, check out the Oceanic Motel at the Inlet and the Plim Plaza Hotel on Second Street. Further down along the boardwalk, check out the Harrison Hall hotel and Courtyard by Marriott hotel on 15th street. Keep walking down the boardwalk and you’ll find the Quality Inn Boardwalk on 16th street and the Holiday Inn & Suites on 17th street. Before leaving the boardwalk, you will find the Flagship Hotel on 26th street, Dune Suites, Dunes Court and the Seabonay on 27th street. All are perfect locations for concert attendees in Ocean City, Maryland! For more information on the concert, please visit CountryCallingFestival.com.

Boardwalk Rock Lineup Schedules Announced

All New Concert in Ocean City!

The Ocean City Boardwalk transforms into a high-energy haven for music lovers with the brand new Boardwalk Rock Festival on Saturday May 17th and Sunday May 18th. This electrifying event will draw rock enthusiasts from all over, turning Maryland’s famous coastal town into the ultimate destination for live music, ocean views, and unforgettable experiences.

A Festival Like No Other

Set against the scenic backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, the Boardwalk Rock Festival brings together an impressive lineup of national and local rock bands, covering everything from classic rock to modern alternative. Whether you’re a lifelong rock fan or just looking for an exciting summer event, this festival delivers top-tier performances, engaging crowds, and an unbeatable atmosphere.

The Lineup & Stages

Big names rock the stages! Saturday its Motley Crue, Bush, Flyleaf, Halestorm and closing the night is Def Leppard. On Sunday, rock legend Alice Cooper takes the stage along with Shinedown, Bret Michaels, Three Days Grace and Nickleback.

More Than Just Music

Beyond the incredible performances, the Boardwalk Rock Festival offers an array of activities for attendees. Visitors can explore:

  • Merchandise Booths – Snag exclusive festival gear and band memorabilia.
  • Interactive Experiences – Meet-and-greets with bands, autograph sessions, and photo ops with your favorite rock stars.
  • Beach & Boardwalk Fun – Take a break from the music and enjoy Ocean City’s famous beaches, arcades, and amusement rides.
  • Check out Dining Options – Ocean City favorites like Harrison’s Harbor Watch and The Wedge Bar are located inside the festival footprint. Enjoy great food and drink during the festival there!

Join the Celebration

With its unbeatable combination of live rock music, scenic ocean views, and classic boardwalk charm, the Boardwalk Rock Festival is an unmissable summer event in Ocean City, Maryland. Whether you’re moshing in the front row, enjoying the music from the beach, or soaking up the lively boardwalk atmosphere, this festival guarantees memories that will last a lifetime.

See below lineup schedule get ready to rock the boardwalk!

Rising Tides Festival

Ocean City, Maryland, is gearing up to celebrate its 150th anniversary with the inaugural Rising Tides Festival on November 22, 2025. This dynamic event, presented by Ocean City Tourism, promises a nostalgic journey through the music and culture of the 70s, 90s, and 2000s, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center along Assawoman Bay.

Musical Lineup

The festival boasts an impressive lineup that will transport attendees back in time:

  • Forever Young Tour: Hosted by Chris Kirkpatrick of *NSYNC, this segment features the “I Love the 90s” and “Pop 2000s” tours, bringing together iconic artists from these vibrant decades.
  • 70’s Soul Jam: Hosted by J.J. Walker, this segment will feature classic hits from the 70s, offering a soulful journey back in time.

Beyond the music, the Rising Tides Festival offers a variety of immersive activities. These include roller skating, silent disco and brand activations.

Event Details

  • Date: November 22, 2025
  • Time: 2 PM – 10 PM
  • Location: Roland E. Powell Convention Center, Ocean City, Maryland

Tickets are available for purchase through the official event page here.

The Rising Tides Festival is a highlight of Ocean City’s “150 Reasons to Smile” anniversary celebrations, reflecting the town’s rich history and vibrant community spirit. As Tom Perlozzo, Director of Tourism and Business Development for Ocean City Tourism, stated, “This throwback festival will celebrate the charm and nostalgia of the past while embracing the vibrant spirit of Ocean City.”

Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, the Rising Tides Festival offers a unique opportunity to relive cherished memories and create new ones in a town that has been a beloved destination for generations.

For more information check out the official event page.

Lineup for Ocean City's Rising Tides Festival on November 22nd, 2025 .

Boardwalk Rock Festival

Are you ready to rock? The Boardwalk Rock Festival is an electrifying two-day music event taking place on May 17 and 18, 2025, in Ocean City, Maryland. Held along the iconic boardwalk, this festival celebrates rock music with performances by local and national artists, offering a mix of classic rock, alternative, and emerging bands.

This year’s lineup is nothing short of spectacular, featuring headliners like Def Leppard, Mötley Crüe, Nickelback, and Shinedown. Fans can also look forward to powerhouse performances from Halestorm, Three Days Grace, Alice Cooper, Chevelle, Bret Michaels, and many more. With over 25 acts scheduled across two jam-packed days, it’s the ultimate destination for rock enthusiasts.

But the festival is more than just music. Indulge in mouthwatering food and drinks from a variety of vendors, explore unique merchandise stalls for souvenirs, and dive into interactive experiences that make the weekend unforgettable. The festival’s location along Ocean City’s scenic beachfront creates the perfect setting to enjoy great music and soak up the coastal vibes.

Tickets go on pre-sale this Friday, 12/13, so don’t wait—secure your spot at this must-attend event! Also, be sure to plan your weekend by booking one of Ocean City’s nearby hotels to stay close to the action. The Boardwalk Rock Festival is the ultimate way to kick off the summer season, whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor. Gather your friends, enjoy the electric atmosphere, and create lasting memories with the roaring ocean as your backdrop. For more details, festival schedule, and ticket information, visit www.boardwalkrockfest.com.

Get ready for a rockin’ weekend in Ocean City—this is one event you don’t want to miss!

The line up for Boardwalk Rock Festival in Ocean City Maryland.
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