Category: Events

Del Vecchio’s Bakery X Winterfest of Lights

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Del Vecchio’s Bakery Brings Holiday Magic to Winterfest of Lights with Gingerbread Cookies

The holiday season is all about magic, lights, and of course, sweet treats—and this year, Del Vecchio’s Bakery is making the season even brighter! We’re thrilled to announce that our local favorite bakery has partnered with Winterfest of Lights to create delicious, festive gingerbread cookies for the annual event.

A Taste Of Tradition

Del Vecchio’s Bakery has been a beloved fixture in our community for over three decades. Founded by the Del Vecchio family, the bakery started as a small, family-run shop with a passion for authentic recipes and high-quality ingredients. Over the years, it has grown into a local institution, known for its fresh breads, decadent pastries, and of course, its seasonal holiday treats. The bakery’s commitment to tradition and quality has made it a go-to spot for generations of families. (Check them out on Instagram here!)

Del Vecchio’s Bakery Collaborates With Winterfest of Lights

Visitors to Winterfest of Lights will not only be dazzled by the sparkling displays but will also have the chance to enjoy Del Vecchio’s signature gingerbread cookies, baked fresh and decorated with holiday cheer. Each cookie is crafted with care, using the bakery’s time-honored recipes and festive touches that perfectly capture the spirit of the season.

This partnership is a perfect blend of community, creativity, and holiday joy. Whether you’re walking through the lights with family, friends, or on a cozy evening stroll, these cookies add a warm, tasty touch to the magical atmosphere of Winterfest.

Stop by the event this season and treat yourself to a little holiday sweetness courtesy of Del Vecchio’s Bakery. It’s the perfect way to savor the season and make memories that will last long after the lights go down!

Make sure you also check out our guide to Winterfest for all of the scoop on our favorite winter event in Ocean City, Maryland.

Your Guide To Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City, Maryland

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Each winter, Northside Park in Ocean City transforms into a sparkling holiday wonderland filled with millions of twinkling lights, festive displays, and plenty of seasonal cheer. Winterfest of Lights has become one of the town’s most beloved traditions — perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to embrace the magic of the holidays by the sea.

Here’s everything you need to know before you go.

What & Where

Located at Northside Park (on 125th Street), Winterfest of Lights is a walk-through experience that spans more than 50 acres of beautifully lit pathways and animated light displays. Visitors can enjoy larger-than-life holiday scenes, shimmering tunnels of light, and the centerpiece — a stunning 50-foot Christmas tree that lights up the night sky.

Now in its 33rd year, the event continues to bring new surprises and interactive experiences for all ages.

Dates & Hours

  • Opening Night: Thursday, November 20, 2025 (Free admission)
  • Regular Schedule: Wednesdays through Sundays, November 21 – December 21
  • Open Daily: December 22 – 31
  • Hours: 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Please note: The event may close during inclement weather, so it’s best to check the official website for updates before visiting.

Admission costs $6 per person for ages 12 and up. The event is free for children 11 and under. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance gate.

Highlights & Features

Winterfest of Lights offers more than just beautiful displays — it’s an immersive experience filled with special features and themed nights throughout the season:

  • 50-Foot Christmas Tree: The perfect backdrop for your family photo or holiday card.
  • Animated Light Displays: Featuring scenes from favorite holiday stories and festive icons.
  • Winterfest Train Garden: A must-see attraction inside the event tent, featuring detailed model train displays in various scales.
  • Enchanted Evenings: On select dates (December 1, 8, 9 & 15), guests can enjoy a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the lights. This is a fun new addition for 2025!
  • Fire & Ice Nights: Fridays and Saturdays feature live entertainment, cozy bonfires, food trucks, and themed photo ops like the “ice throne” and “snow arch.”
  • Furry Friends Night: Wednesdays are pet-friendly, so visitors can bring their leashed dogs to join in the fun.
  • Accessibility: Scooters and wheelchairs are available for rent on site to ensure everyone can comfortably enjoy the experience.

Tips For The Best Experience:

Arrive early to catch the full glow as the lights come on at dusk.

Bundle up — temperatures can drop near the bay, so layers and gloves are recommended.

Visit midweek to avoid crowds, especially early in the season.

Buy tickets online for faster entry.

Bring a camera or tripod to capture those picture-perfect moments under the lights.

Plan a full evening: After exploring the park, warm up with dinner or drinks at one of Ocean City’s wonderful restaurants. (Our picks? Marlin Moon Restaurant or Captain’s Table!)

Winterfest of Lights perfectly captures the holiday spirit in Ocean City. It’s family-friendly, affordable, and designed to create lasting memories — whether it’s watching the lights reflect over the water, sipping hot cocoa by a bonfire, or snapping that perfect holiday photo.

From dazzling displays to festive music and cozy moments, it’s an Ocean City tradition that keeps guests coming back year after year.

For more information, tickets, and event updates, visit ococean.com/winterfest

Make this holiday season one to remember — visit this page to see our great options for booking your stay and experiencing the magic of Ocean City’s Winterfest of Lights for yourself.

Ocean City Running Festival

Posted on by Jeff

The Ocean City Running Festival returns this Saturday, November 1, 2025, offering runners of all levels the chance to take in breathtaking views while conquering their distance of choice. With four unique race options, there’s truly something for everyone. Marathoners will take on the ultimate challenge, running from Ocean City to Assateague Island and back, with sweeping coastal vistas and the possibility of spotting the island’s famous wild ponies. Half-marathoners will begin their journey on Assateague Island, crossing over the bridge into Ocean City before making their way to the finish line. For those looking for a shorter race day, the 5K and 8K courses showcase the iconic Ocean City Boardwalk, offering a flat, fast route filled with salty ocean air and energetic crowd support.

No matter the distance, all races share one incredible destination: the finish line on the Ocean City boardwalk at the inlet parking lot. That’s where the celebration truly begins. Runners will be greeted by cheering spectators and ushered into Celebration Village, a post-race party complete with live music, vendors, delicious snacks, refreshing adult beverages, and even a costume contest. It’s the perfect place to soak in your accomplishment, reconnect with friends, and make new ones in the running community. 

And the perks don’t stop there. Every participant will walk away with a collectible finisher medal unlike anything else on the racing circuit. This year’s design is inspired by the Eastern Shore’s coastal charm with an oyster shell that slides open to reveal an iconic Ocean City image inside. Runners will also receive high-quality race gear to remember their accomplishment: a lightweight Under Armour t-shirt for 5K and 8K participants, or a quarter-zip performance hoodie for half and full marathoners. Plus, every finisher (21+) can raise a complimentary post-race beer in celebration of their hard work. Between the stunning courses, memorable swag, and festive atmosphere, the Ocean City Running Festival is more than a race—it’s an experience. The time is now, grab your running buddies, and get ready to run, celebrate, and create lasting memories at the beach this fall!

In town for the run and looking for some tasty eats and refreshing drinks? Check out the Captain’s Table on 15th street inside the Courtyard by Marriott. Load up on carbs on Friday with the following special. House-made fettucine tossed with chicken, sweet Italian sausage and broccoli rabe. Served in a light white wine and roasted garlic sauce, finished with sundried tomatoes, Parmesan and fresh herbs. After the race, bring your finisher medal for a half priced appetizer and $4 beer. Visit their website by clicking here.

If your looking for restaurant closer to the inlet, then you need to check out Harrison’s Harbor Watch, overlooking the water at the inlet. They will also offer a carb load special on Friday with Chicken Florentine. Grilled chicken, spinach, tomatoes, garlic, parmesan cream sauce and penne pasta. After the race, bring your finisher medal for a half priced appetizer and $4 beer. To learn more about Harrison’s Harbor Watch, click here.

Learn more about the Ocean City Running Festival by visiting their website here: https://www.ocmdrunfest.com/

Four Harrison Group Properties Honored with ConventionSouth’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Award

Posted on by Jeff

The Harrison Group Hotels and Restaurants is proud to announce that four of its Ocean City properties have been recognized with the prestigious 2025 Readers’ Choice Award from ConventionSouth, the leading national multimedia resource for event and meeting planning in the South.

The honored properties include:

“ConventionSouth readers and fans have once again voted to decide the best meeting sites in the South, and it’s no surprise that these Harrison Group properties have been selected,” said ConventionSouth Associate Publisher Tiffany Burtnett. “This recognition comes directly from the nation’s top meeting professionals—those who demand the highest levels of service, creativity, and facility quality. These Ocean City hotels clearly exemplify that commitment.”

The ConventionSouth Readers’ Choice Awards celebrate the most outstanding hotels, venues, and CVBs across the Southern United States. This year, over 7,000 meeting professionals participated in the nomination and voting process—making it one of the most engaging award years in the publication’s 40-year history. The four Harrison Group properties were selected among 502 distinguished hotels, event spaces, and destinations throughout the South.

In addition to highlighting award-winning properties, ConventionSouth’s upcoming Awards Issue will feature its annual “Meeting Professionals to Watch” list, showcasing some of the industry’s most innovative and inspiring planners.

Celebrating more than four decades as a trusted resource for meeting planners, ConventionSouth reaches over 18,000 professionals nationwide who book events across the Southern region.

The Harrison Group Hotels & Restaurants owns and operates 19 hotels and 16 restaurants along the Eastern Seaboard, including several premier properties in Ocean City, Maryland.

For more information, visit www.HarrisonGroupHotels.com.

Your Guide To Sunfest 2025

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As summer winds down and the ocean breeze starts taking on a crisp edge, Ocean City, Maryland, gears up for one of its biggest celebrations: Sunfest. This four-day arts, music, and food festival is a beloved seasonal sendoff and a perfect excuse to take a last hurrah at the shore. Below is your guide to making the most of Sunfest — what to expect, how to plan, and insider tips to get the full experience.

What & When — The Basics

  • Dates (2025): October 23–26
    • Thursday through Saturday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
    • Sunday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Location: The Inlet Lot / south end of the Ocean City boardwalk (near 809 S. Atlantic Avenue)
  • Cost: Free admission.

Sunfest is more than just a street fair — it’s a festival combining arts & crafts, live music, food, and special events designed to entertain all ages.

Also, 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of Sunfest, making it a milestone year.

Main Highlights & Events

Here are some of the attractions you won’t want to miss:

1. Live Music on Two Stages
Over the four days, more than 20 bands perform across two stages, covering genres from rock and country to reggae and fusion. All performances are free.

  • For example, on Thursday, October 23, the lineup includes Rick K, Chris Sacks Band, Jim Barone (Elvis tribute), The Amish Outlaws, and more.
  • On Friday, you’ll find “Romeo Delight: The Ultimate Van Halen Experience” and “FADE TO BLACK (a Tribute to Metallica)” among others.
  • The schedule continues into Saturday and Sunday with acts like Hank Azaria & The EZ Street Band, The Reagan Years, Tropidelic, and Kelly Bell Band.

2. Arts & Crafts Vendors
Sunfest draws more than 200 artisans from across the country, offering handmade items in pottery, textiles, jewelry, glass, wood, photography, specialty foods, and more.
This is a great opportunity for early holiday shopping, local souvenirs, or unique finds you won’t see elsewhere.

3. Themed Events & Activities
Sunfest includes a robust slate of special programming:

  • Dock Dogs (Thursday–Sunday): Watch or participate in canine dock jumping and retrieving competitions.
  • Howl-O-Ween Pet Parade & Pageant (Saturday): Bring your pet in costume, parade them along the boardwalk, and enjoy the fun.
  • Beach Bicycle Show-N-Shine & Swap Meet (Saturday): Showcase your bike or browse/swap bike parts — registration is required.
  • Drive in Disguise / Truck or Treat (Saturday afternoon): A fun, festive parade and Halloween-style event.
  • Beach Bonfire + Fireworks (Saturday evening): As day fades, gather around the beach bonfire and wrap up the night with fireworks.
  • Great Pumpkin Race (Sunday): Build and race your own pumpkin car — creative fun for both adults and kids. Registration opens around noon, race at 1 p.m.

These events give the festival extra personality and make it more than just strolling from tent to tent.

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

Sunfest is more than just a festival — it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and coastal living. It caps off the Ocean City season with energy, color, and personality. For many, it’s a final chance to soak in boardwalk views, live music, and artisans before winter rolls in. With free admission, a diverse lineup, and immersive events, it’s accessible and fun for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Oceans Calling Food & Beverage Specials

Posted on by Jeff

We’re so ready for Oceans Calling 2025 in Ocean City, Maryland! Check out these two Ocean City favorites during Oceans Calling! Both the Wedge and Harrison’s Harbor Watch are located within the festival footprint. Enjoy the festival experience, without paying festival prices!

Wedge Bar & Grill, located at the end of the boardwalk, overlooking the Inlet.

Festival season calls for big music, big memories—and an even bigger pour. This year at The Wedge, we’re raising the bar (and the cup!) with the Dewey Beer Souvenir Cup for both Ocean’s Calling and Country Calling festivals. For just $15, you’ll score a keepsake 22oz cup filled with your first pour of Dewey’s award-winning craft beer, and when you’re ready for more, refills are only $10 all festival long. Don’t miss out on the Patron Pop up Party! They will have a special Patron bar along with tons of giveaways! Sip, savor, and take home a piece of the party—your festival drink just got an upgrade. For more on the restaurant, visit their website here.

Harrison’s Harbor Watch – 806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, right next door to the Wedge.

If you’re looking for more than just a quick concert bite, then dine at Harrison’s Harbor Watch in Ocean City, MD is a treat for all the senses. Perched at the south end of the boardwalk with sweeping, panoramic views of the inlet, Assateague Island, and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a picturesque backdrop for a relaxing evening. The menu leans heavily into local seafood—think fresh-caught rockfish, lump-meat crab cakes with no filler, and a raw bar that’s among the most authentic in town. For more about the restaurant, visit their restaurant website here.

Need more information on the concert?? Click here for all the the Ocean’s Calling 2025 FAQ’s.

The Wedge (left) and Harrison’s Harbor Watch (right) are ready to serve you this festival season!

All You Need to Know for Country Calling 2025

Posted on by Jeff

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. ​For more details on ticket options, 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.

There’s also great dining opportunities during the festival. Inside the event venue, check out local favorites, Harrison’s Harbor Watch and The Wedge Bar. Grab a seat and check out their amazing water views overlooking the inlet.

Still need a place to stay, there’s 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! 

Additional important FAQ’s:

Re-Entry Policy? Yes, you can leave and re-enter on the same day up until 7pm

Map & Stages: The 2025 festival map is official live, click here to see it.

Lockers: Lockers are available for rent.

Merchandise & Boardwalk Businesses: Yes, there will be official merchandise vendors, and local boardwalk/restaurant businesses inside the festival footprint will also be open.

Accessibility: The festival has ADA accessibility accommodations, accessible entrances, etc.

For the latest updates and additional information, refer to the official website, CountryCallingFestival.com Please see the daily schedules below.

Saturday October 4th

Sunday October 5th

OC Rock & Ride: Bikefest 2025

Posted on by Haven

Known in the past as Bikefest, Ocean City, Maryland’s annual motorcycle festival is back with a brand new look! Local organizers Matthew and Tyler Odachowski are proud to present OC Rock & Ride, a fresh take on Bikefest dedicated to preserving the rally’s spirit. The event will begin on Wednesday, September 10th, and end on the 13th.

Tickets and Lineup

With performances from bands including Queensrÿche, Slaughter, and Quiet Riot, rock and roll is being brought right to the inlet! Tickets are available online, starting at only $41 for a single-day general admission pass. Upgrades and multi-day packs are also for sale through the official OC Rock & Ride website.

OC Rock & Ride is also partnering with local charities to make a difference in our community. The four-day event draws over 160,000 attendees, providing support for several non-profit organizations:

Beyond the Stage

As part of the plan to preserve the spirit of Bikefest, OC Rock & Ride will welcome back many longtime Bikefest traditions. The event features more than just music, so take a step beyond the stage to explore everything the festival has to offer!

Vendors

This year, more than 85 sellers will make up the vendor villages, one of the most popular parts of Bikefest. The vendors will be set up in two locations. The Convention Center near 40th Street will host over 60 vendors, while the inlet area will feature about 30. Visit the OC Rock & Ride website to see a full list of participating businesses.

From custom gear to jewelry, the vendor areas have something for everyone. Also, because no festival experience is complete without it, OC Rock & Ride will feature a wide variety of food vendors to keep you fueled through the event!

Stunts, Poker Runs, and More

Beyond the music and vendors, there are a variety of stunt shows and activities to enjoy, including the thrilling Globe of Death performance and a huge fireworks display.

Don’t miss Cruizin’ the Coast, with exciting new stops across Worcester County, Somerset County, and Downtown Salisbury, each offering scenic views and an incredible experience! Every $50 ticket includes admission for one rider and 1 Cruzin’ the Coast t-shirt. Bikers can pick up their stamp cards at the locations listed below starting on Monday, then visit participating locations Thursday and Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Monday – Tuesday(8 AM to 5 PM)
  • OC Rock & Ride Main Office (Look for the OC Rock & Ride Sign)
    12046 Ocean Gateway
    Ocean City, MD 21842
Wednesday 9/10 – Friday 9/12 (9 AM – 5 PM)
  • Ticket booth at the Ocean City Inlet
    809 S Atlantic Ave
    Ocean City, MD 21842
  • OC Rock & Ride Info Booth at the Convention Center (South Lot)
    4001 Coastal Hwy
    Ocean City, MD 21842

To learn more about OC Rock & Ride, click here. Learn more about nearby hotels under the lodging page or at ocmdhotels.com.

Ocean’s Calling 2025 – Times & FAQ’s

Posted on by Haven

Ocean’s Calling is a three day music festival taking place this September in Ocean City Maryland. Featuring headliners such as Green Day, Noah Kahan, Fall Out Boy, and Weezer, the event brings in a huge crowd each year. The festival grounds are right on the beach, creating one of the most unique and memorable venues ever! With endless food vendors, onsite bars, merch stands, and music all day long, Ocean’s Calling is an experience that you’ll never forget! If you’re planning a visit or looking to buy tickets, check out our blog about which artists are to appear onstage here.

Friday, September 26

Kicking off the festival are artists Izzy Escobar and Chef Antonia Lofaso, who will take the Sea Bright and the Carousel stages at 12:15. Water stands, merch stands, bars, food vendors, and more will also open at this time. Friday includes many well-known artists and bands such as the Spin Doctors, Fountains of Wayne, Live, Nelly, O.A.R., The Black Crowes, Cake, Lenny Kravitz, and Green Day! Green Day will take the final performance on Friday with an almost 2 hour set accompanied by an ASL interpreter.

Saturday, September 27

With artists like Noah Kahan and bands like Good Charlotte, Modest Mouse, and Franz Ferdinand, Saturday is going to be packed with incredible music! Don’t miss O.A.R. & Friends, which features a mystery guest appearance. The final performance by Noah Kahan is ASL interpreted, ensuring a great night for everybody! While the doors open at 12:00 p.m., the first performances are not set to begin until 12:30. If you don’t want to miss any music, it’s the perfect amount of time to stop by the merch stands set up around the festival grounds!

Sunday, September 28

The final day of the festival, Sunday, September 28, keeps the music going with sets from Marcy Playground, 4 Non Blondes, and Blind Melon. Weezer will also take the stage, delivering their signature hits to the Ocean City crowd for the second year in a row. Closing out the weekend, Fall Out Boy headlines with a nearly two hour set beginning at 9:15 p.m. on the Sea Bright stage!

FAQ

  • Are tickets for Ocean’s Calling still available?

Yes, tickets for the event are still available for purchase through the official Ocean’s Calling website! Three day tickets are currently waitlisted, but there are single day passes still for sale.

  • What is the best time to arrive at the festival grounds?

If you’re looking to beat the crowds and find parking, it’s best to arrive from 11 to 12. Doors open at 12:00 p.m., so arriving earlier will give you time to get a good spot in line.

  • What am I allowed to bring into the festival?

You can bring:

  • Check what bags are allowed at the festival
  • Empty reusable water bottles and hydration packs, and plastic or aluminum water bottles
  • Baby strollers, including stroller wagons designed to transport children with children present
  • Binoculars
  • Cameras (basic point and shoot consumer-grade cameras) without detachable lenses and other accessories (monopods, selfie sticks, tripods, GoPro mounts, and other attachments are not allowed)
  • Personal-sized hand sanitizer
  • Portable battery packs
  • Personal misting fans with a bottle no larger than 1.5 L (must be empty upon entry)
  • Sunscreen in non-aerosol containers is allowed in the size of 3.4 ounces or less
  • Factory sealed Naloxone/Narcan kit
  • Hydration/Electrolyte packets in factory sealed single serving package(s)
  • Frisbees
  • Blankets, sheets, towels

You cannot bring:

  • Any bag that is not aligned with the allowed bags
  • Aerosol containers, including sunscreen and personal beauty products
  • Coolers of any kind. (Exceptions may be made for medical use)
  • Any and all professional audio recording equipment
  • Professional cameras and professional recording (photo, video, audio) equipment
    • NO large professional detachable zoom lenses, stands, monopods, tripods, attachment sticks (selfie sticks) or other commercial equipment
  • Any and all professional video equipment. No video recording will be allowed
  • Drones or any other remote flying device
  • Hammocks
  • Inflatables of any kind
  • Glass containers of any kind
  • Illegal and illicit substances of any kind
  • Outside food or beverage (including alcohol) of any kind
  • Umbrellas
  • Pets (except service animals)
  • Selfie sticks
  • Skateboards, scooters, bicycles, wagons, carts, or any personal motorized vehicles
  • Tents, canopies, or shade structures of any kind
  • Unauthorized/unlicensed vendors are not allowed. No unauthorized solicitation and materials including handbills, flyers, stickers, beach balls, giveaways, samples, etc.
  • Weapons or explosives of any kind
  • Fireworks
  • Large chains or spiked jewelry
  • Bicycles inside festival grounds (free parking is available near festival entrance)
  • Carts of any kind (including Red Wagons)
  • Chairs of any kind
  • Smoking (including vaping)

More Info

For more information about Ocean’s Calling, check out their website here. The website includes festival maps, transportation guides, hotel booking services, merchandise, and more! Visit their help page for any questions about the event.

With three jam-packed days of music, ocean views, and nonstop entertainment, Ocean’s Calling is shaping up to be one of the biggest music events of the year! Whether you’re here for your favorite band just to soak up the festival atmosphere, this is one weekend you won’t want to miss.

The White Marlin Open is Back!

Posted on by Haven

The White Marlin Open is a 52-year-old deep-sea fishing event famous for being the world’s largest and richest billfish tournament. Hosted yearly in the waters of “The White Marlin Capital of the World,” a name bestowed upon Ocean City in 1939 by President Franklin Roosevelt, the competition reels in a massive crowd of spectators and competitors. Whether you’ve never heard of the White Marlin Open or you’re planning to visit and watch, here’s everything you should know about the tournament!

Photo courtesy Jim Motsko

About the White Marlin Open

The White Marlin Open was founded in 1974 by the Motsko family. The inaugural tournament had 57 boats, 150 anglers, and a total prize purse of $20,000. The event has been hosted by Ocean City ever since, earning titles such as the “World’s Largest Billfishing Tournament.” It lives up to the name, as the total number of boat entries since 1974 exceeds 15,500.

“The White Marlin Open began in 1974 with 57 boats entered in the tournament and a top prize of 20,000 dollars,” said director Jim Motsko. “In 2018 we had 382 boats entered and paid out over 5,450,000 dollars in prize money. It’s grown a lot since the beginning.”

Since then the tournament has only gotten bigger, with this year’s edition of the White Marlin Open watching 282 boats chase $7.2 million in prize money. 2025 also welcomes back past winners such as the Waste Knot, Blue Runner, and Floor Reel.

Watching the Tournament

The end-of-day weigh-in is the most popular time to watch the White Marlin Open. Starting at 4:00, people can see fish get weighed on the scale as boats fight to climb the leaderboard all night. Many people also enjoy seeing the boats return to the inlet. Flags are flown on each boat as they return to signify what fishes were caught and which are going to the scale.

The edges of the inlet fill up quickly, so it’s recommended to arrive early. There are also two restaurants with views of the inlet, which are perfect places to ensure a spot to watch without the crowds. Harrison’s Harbor Watch and The Wedge both offer a clear look at the returning boats, making them popular choices for dinner during the tournament.

Another way to watch is at the festival downtown. Marlin Fest is held during the White Marlin Open, featuring a daily livestream of the tournament weigh-ins, live music, food & drink, and local vendors! It’s a great way to support the community while celebrating the competition. The event is also completely family-friendly, bringing the action straight to you on a big screen at the beach!

If you’re not able to attend in-person, you can still tune in online! The official White Marlin Open website features the MarlinCam, a livestream complete with commentators and real-time reports as the fish hit the scales. If you want to see the inlet and returning boats, you can watch the cameras from The Wedge here.

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