As winter fades and spring begins to bloom, Ocean City, Maryland comes alive with exciting March events. From festive parades and film screenings to running races and early spring celebrations, March is one of the best times to enjoy OCMD without the peak-season crowds.
If you’re planning a spring getaway, save the calendar above of the top March events in Ocean City.
Why Visit Ocean City, MD in March?
Here’s why March is a hidden gem month for OCMD travel:
✔ Lower hotel rates compared to summer ✔ Fewer crowds ✔ Unique seasonal events ✔ Mild spring temperatures ✔ Easier restaurant reservations
Whether you’re visiting for the St. Patrick’s Day festivities, a film festival weekend, or simply a peaceful beach escape, March offers a refreshing way to experience Ocean City.
Plan Your March Getaway to OCMD
If you’re searching for March events in OCMD, this coastal town offers the perfect blend of entertainment, culture, and relaxation. From festive parades and 5Ks to independent films and seaside strolls, Ocean City in March delivers spring fun for couples, families, and friend groups alike.
Start planning your early-season beach trip now, before the summer rush begins. (And don’t forget the hotel and restaurants!)
The wait is over, the Oceans Calling Festival 2026 lineup has officially been announced, and it’s already creating serious buzz for another unforgettable weekend in Ocean City.
Set against the iconic backdrop of the Ocean City Boardwalk, this three-day beachfront music festival has quickly become one of the East Coast’s most anticipated live music events. And if history tells us anything, hotels will fill up fast.
Here’s what you need to know, and why now is the time to lock in your stay.
Oceans Calling Festival 2026 Lineup Brings Major Star Power
Since its debut, Oceans Calling Festival has blended chart-topping headliners with nostalgic favorites and emerging artists across multiple stages right on the sand.
The 2026 lineup announcement continues that tradition, bringing together a mix of rock, pop, and alternative artists that appeal to multi-generational audiences. From legacy acts that defined decades to today’s streaming sensations, this year’s roster is designed to deliver high-energy performances from start to finish.
With past years drawing tens of thousands of fans to the beach, demand for accommodations during festival weekend is always intense and 2026 will be no exception.
Why Booking Early Makes All the Difference
When the Oceans Calling Festival lineup drops, hotel inventory starts moving almost immediately. Here’s why securing your room now gives you a major advantage:
1. Stay Close to the Action
Properties along the boardwalk and oceanfront sell out first. Booking early gives you the best chance at walking to the festival gates instead of relying on rideshares or long commutes. Check out Holiday Inn & Suites on 17th St, the newly renovated Courtyard by Marriott on 15th St, or places right steps away from the gates like the Plim Plaza.
2. Better Room Selection
Whether you want an ocean-view balcony, a suite for your group, or a convenient mid-town location, early booking means more choices, making it a better overall experience.
3. Lock In Rates Before They Rise
As availability tightens, rates typically follow. Reserving your hotel now helps protect your budget while ensuring you’re exactly where you want to be.
Make It a Full Ocean City Experience
Oceans Calling Festival isn’t just about the music — it’s about the setting. During the day, enjoy the beach and Atlantic views. Between sets, explore restaurants, local bars, and boardwalk favorites. After the final encore, your hotel is just steps away.
Planning ahead allows you to build a full weekend itinerary instead of scrambling for last-minute lodging outside of town.
And remember, this isn’t just another concert. It’s a beachfront festival experience in Ocean City, where staying nearby is part of what makes the weekend seamless and memorable.
Rooms will not last as the event approaches. Lock in your stay today and start counting down to an unforgettable weekend at Oceans Calling Festival 2026.
For years, planners have associated beach meetings with peak season in Ocean City… sunny weather, nonstop activity, and the full energy of resort life. But when it comes to planning group events in Ocean City, a new perspective is emerging. Instead of focusing on creating the biggest and busiest event, planners are asking how to create the best overall experience. The answer? The off season.
Why the Off Season Is Ideal for Group Events in Ocean City
As meeting planning continues to evolve, experience has taken center stage in decision-making. At the same time, budgets are more scrutinized than ever, with a clear expectation of return on investment. When demand softens, value opportunities emerge, and that works to a planner’s advantage in off-season resort communities.
Oceanfront destinations still pack a powerful punch after peak season ends. In fact, many would argue they improve. The off season offers open beaches where retreats can truly shine. Rejuvenation takes center stage, and the calmer atmosphere encourages meaningful time with colleagues and peers.
For group events in Ocean City, this shift creates space for deeper engagement.
Budget Advantages Without Sacrificing Experience
Hotels and restaurants have greater flexibility and availability during the off season, prioritizing your needs rather than juggling multiple large-scale events. Rates allow planners to elevate the attendee experience without inflating budgets.
Instead of scaling back to meet financial constraints, planners can scale up strategically. Consider room upgrades, enhanced food and beverage experiences, dynamic guest speakers, or customized team-building activities that bring everyone together in a meaningful way.
Planning group events in Ocean City during the off season allows your event to feel premium, not pared down.
Logistics That Make a Difference
The advantages go beyond atmosphere and budget. Logistics improve with easier travel, less traffic, and smoother arrivals. Smaller crowds and quieter settings allow for stronger connections, focused agendas, and intentional networking.
When you remove distractions, the experience becomes the centerpiece.
A Strategic Shift for the Future of Meetings
The future of meetings is less about doing more; it’s about doing it better. Showcase your agenda against the backdrop of a beautiful beach community filled with restaurants, activities, and amenities — but with the breathing room to enjoy them.
As you review your upcoming calendar, consider the off season not as a fallback, but as a strategic advantage for hosting impactful group events in Ocean City. Don’t forget to also check out these properties who have won ConventionSouth’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards!
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.
Each summer, the skies over Ocean City, Maryland light up with one of the most exhilarating events of the season: the OC Air Show. Featuring thrilling aerial performances, jaw‑dropping stunts, and demonstrations from top military and civilian pilots, this all‑day spectacle is scheduled for June 13–14, 2026 along the beautiful Ocean City beach and boardwalk. The action is typically centered around 12th–17th Street on the sand, making oceanfront hotels and venues in this area ideal for viewing.
Whether you want front‑row seats to the sky ballet or a comfortable base for your weekend staycation, here are the top five places to view the air show in Ocean City… from relaxed beachfront hotels to centrally‑located boardwalk stays.
Nestled at 15th Street on the boardwalk, this popular oceanfront hotel offers spectacular panoramic beach views, perfect for air show enthusiasts who want to catch every pass without crowds. It’s a short walk right to the heart of the action, making it easy to step outside and look up as jets roar overhead. With contemporary rooms that have been fully remodelled and a classic boardwalk location, it’s a perennial favorite for both families and weekend visitors.
Why it’s great for the air show:
Steps from the beach and boardwalk show center
Elevated ocean views for sky watching
Easy access to OC dining with The Captain’s Table located right in the lobby
Located right on the iconic Ocean City boardwalk, this hotel is an excellent budget‑friendly choice that still puts you in the thick of the action. Guests can enjoy easy access to the sand where much of the air show viewing takes place. You’ll be ideally positioned to walk to the central flight path and experience the adrenaline‑pumping show without needing a vehicle.
Why it’s great for the air show:
On‑boardwalk location from which most of the show is visible
Oceanfront and centrally located between 13th and 17th Streets — the prime stretch of the air show — this renovated hotel offers spacious suites and private balconies overlooking the beach. It’s a perfect pick for guests who want a mix of shoreline relaxation and jet‑fueled excitement.
Classic and convenient, Harrison Hall Hotel sits just off the boardwalk near the heart of the air show zone. Its historic vibe and proximity to local boardwalk shops and restaurants make it a fun choice for travelers who want to be in the center of the summer buzz.
Why it’s great for the air show:
Short walk to viewing beaches and event area
Centrally located for boardwalk access
Budget-friendly option for travelers looking to save without sacrificing location
No need for additional transportation on show weekend
Just a half‑block from the beach, Dunes Suites offers comfortable oceanfront rooms and private balconies that are ideal for watching pilots perform dramatic passes overhead. Its location on Baltimore Avenue gives you quick access to the boardwalk and all the Air Show festivities too.
Why it’s great for the air show:
Near‑beach location with balcony views
Relaxed, suite‑style lodging
Great option for families or longer stays
Whether you’re a local Marylander planning your annual air show visit or a first‑time spectator looking for unforgettable summer fun, these five spots offer excellent vantage points and welcoming stays that put the sky right at your fingertips.
Winter in Ocean City doesn’t mean the fun has to stop! From cozy indoor activities to exciting seasonal happenings, February events in OCMD offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a local looking for something new or a visitor planning a winter getaway, our guide to February events in OCMD and the surrounding area will help you make the most of the month. Get ready to discover beer festivals, live entertainment, family-friendly outings, and more… You won’t want to miss a single moment!
Planning a trip to OC for one of these exciting upcoming events? Explore our hotel page to find the perfect place to stay, with options to match every style and budget.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
“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.
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.
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.
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