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With only a few days until September, we are looking forward to what the fall months are going to bring – and one of those things is some of the best events of the year!

Wine on the Beach (9/8-9)
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just want to do some taste testing, the Wine on the Beach Festival is a great place to try the best wines, beers, and food Maryland has to offer. Also, while you’re there, browse vendor tents selling gorgeous art and handmade products and jam to live music from local artists like Larry Lay, Bird Dog & the Road Kings, Misspent Youth, and Tranzfusion.

Tickets are $35 and include a wine glass and samples, and can be purchased in advance on their website, winefest.com. You can even bring your family if you want to. Tickets for children 13-20 are $15, and children under 12 are free!

Bikefest (9/13-17)
The largest motorcycle rally on the East Coast is back for another year! From a boardwalk parade to shopping, concerts and more, BikeFest is one of the most exciting weeks of the year. With big names like Joan Jett, Billy Idol, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and more are set to perform, it’s sure to be a week to remember!

Check out ocbikefest.com for more information about the rally!

AdventureFest (9/22-24)
Back for their second year, AdventureFest is a hunting, fishing, and gun show, featuring activities like K9 training, C.O.P.S. support meetings, hunting and fishing expos, a H&H memorial walk, and even a motorcycle rodeo. The event also includes live music performances by artists such as Don McLean of “American Pie” fame and David Bray, as well as auctions for custom items like a gun, surfboard, and autographed guitars. Proceeds will benefit various non-profits supporting law enforcement, military personnel, and veterans. The festival runs from September 22nd to 24th at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center.

You can purchase concert tickets at ocadventurefest.com.

Ocean’s Calling (9/29-10/1)
After being canceled last year due to severe weather, Ocean’s Calling is back and better than ever! This live music and food festival is unprecedented for the town bringing world-renown names like John Mayer, Alanis Morissette, Jack Johnson and The Lumineers – just to name a few.

But the exceptional music line-up isn’t the only exciting thing happening. Celebrity chefs, Robert Irvine, famous for his Food Network programs, Dining: Impossible and Restaurant: Impossible, and Amanda Freitag, best known for her appearances on Chopped, will be doing cooking demos, and revealing “tricks of the trade” for festival goers.

Tickets are limited, but still available at oceancscallingfestival.com

With something happening every weekend, it’s sure to be an exciting September! We hope to see you, and as always, check out our hotels for the best oceanfront accommodations!

Ocean City, Maryland, is renowned for its stunning beaches, lively boardwalk, and a plethora of exciting attractions. Among these, Jolly Roger Amusements stands out as a beacon of fun and adventure. At the heart of this amusement park lies a thrilling water ride known as “Splash Mountain.” With its nautical theme and captivating twists, Splash Mountain promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the enchanting world of Splash Mountain and discover what makes it a must-visit attraction in Ocean City. We’re also thrilled to offer discounted passes at several of our hotels.

A Journey into Nautical Fantasy

As you approach Splash Mountain at Jolly Roger Amusements, you’re immediately drawn in by its elaborate nautical theme. The ride is inspired by the allure of the high seas and pirate lore, creating an immersive environment that transports riders to a world of adventure and excitement. The attention to detail is evident in the shipwrecks, seafaring decorations, and cleverly placed pirate references throughout the ride.

The Build-Up: Boarding the Ship

As you wait in line, anticipation builds with every passing moment. The ride’s soundtrack, featuring sea shanties and swashbuckling tunes, adds to the atmosphere, creating a sense of camaraderie among fellow riders. Upon reaching the boarding area, you’re met with the sight of a weathered pirate ship ready to embark on a perilous journey.

The Plunge: Heart-Pounding Thrills

Once aboard the ship, the real adventure begins. The ride’s design incorporates both gentle meanders and heart-pounding drops, catering to riders of varying thrill preferences. The twists and turns mimic the ebb and flow of ocean waves, keeping riders engaged and unsure of what to expect next. The highlight, of course, is the dramatic plunge, where the ship hurtles down a steep slope into a refreshing pool of water, creating a splash that delights riders and onlookers alike.

Captivating Sights

As you navigate the course, you’re treated to breathtaking vistas of the amusement park and the beautiful Ocean City shoreline. The ride’s elevation allows for stunning panoramic views, making it a perfect opportunity to snap memorable photos and take in the surrounding beauty.

Fun for the Whole Family

One of the standout features of Splash Mountain is its family-friendly nature. While the exhilarating drops and turns cater to thrill-seekers, the overall ride experience is designed to be enjoyed by families and groups. The thrill factor is balanced with whimsical elements that make it accessible to a wide range of visitors, from young adventurers to those seeking a more relaxed ride.

Conclusion

Splash Mountain at Jolly Roger Amusements in Ocean City, MD, is a true gem that captures the spirit of adventure, camaraderie, and the allure of the sea. Its intricate theming, heart-pounding thrills, and captivating sights make it a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the vibrant world of Ocean City’s amusements. Whether you’re an avid coaster enthusiast or a family looking for shared moments of excitement, Splash Mountain offers an experience that will leave you with cherished memories of your time spent on the high seas of fun. So, next time you’re in Ocean City, be sure to set sail on this thrilling nautical adventure at Jolly Roger Amusements. Also don’t miss out on purchasing discounted passes at the Hilton, Doubletree and Oceanic hotels.

Every August for 18 years, the Art League of Ocean City hosts “Artists Paint OC”. For five days, 50 artists paint famous local scenes at perfect times of the day. Discover your own masterpiece and meet the artist who painted it.

Schedule of Events: August 9-13: 50 artists paint around Ocean City & Assateague Island

Saturday August 12, 5-7pm: Wet Paint Sale & Festival, Ocean City Center for the Arts. Collect just-painted original artwork of iconic local scenes. Free! Live music. Cash bar. Hors d’oeuvres. Meet the artists.
Sunday August 13, 9-11am: Quick Paint on the Boardwalk. Watch the artists paint around S. Division St. quickly for prizes. Sponsored by Ocean City Development Corporation.
Sunday August 13, 1-3pm: Wet Paint Sale & Festival, Ocean City Center for the Arts. Take home an original masterpiece just painted on the famous OC Boardwalk. Meet the artists. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, live music, and a cash bar. Free!

Please visit and support this great event put on by the Art League. For more information please visit http://www.artleagueofoceancity.org

Recently featured in the Ocean City Today newspaper, we’re proud support the Maryland Coastal Bays Program with new educational signage about horseshoe crabs at the Oceanic Motel. Pictured are members of the Coastal Bays team and Oceanic’s General Manager Nicole Bowen. To read the full article, click here – https://www.oceancitytoday.com/lifestyle/maryland-coastal-bays-horseshoe-crab-survey-done/article_372cc114-219c-11ee-bf15-43e7b7d79ca8.html

Ocean City, Maryland, is more than a picturesque beachfront town boasting mouth watering seafood and breathtaking landscapes. It’s a vibrant community enriched by tradition and a shared love for the sea. Embodied in this community spirit is a long-standing opportunity of adventure for over 35 years, the Sea Rocket! Showcasing how this celebrated attraction seamlessly blends thrilling water activities with Ocean City’s robust community, let’s set sail on an exploratory experience.

The Patriotic Spirit of the Sea Rocket Speedboat

The Sea Rocket, painted in patriotic colors of red, white, and blue, symbolizes the American Dream! This is more than a speedboat; it’s an emblem of national pride that rides the waves of Ocean City. The Sea Rocket experience allows both locals and visitors to engage with the Atlantic Ocean’s mighty splendor while taking in an awe-inspiring perspective of Ocean City’s skyline. As you skim along the coastline, you can spot iconic landmarks, your own hotel such as The Doubletree by Hilton or The Holiday Inn, and even playful bottlenose dolphins, our regular aquatic companions- further enhancing your connection with this vibrant coastal community.

Basking in Nature’s Grandeur: Sea Rocket Sunset Cruises

As your day of adventure comes to an end, we invite you to join us on a more relaxing adventure: the Sea Rocket Sunset Cruise. Watch as the setting sun paints a canvas of golden hues across the sky, bathing the cityscape in a warm, calming light. Every landmark, from the bustling boardwalk to the beautiful beachside hotels, radiates in the sunset’s glow. These shared moments of tranquility, watching nature’s spectacle together, are the very essence of our close-knit community. Harrison’s Harbor Watch, only 5 minutes away, is one site that may grab your attention and be the place for dinner after your cruise comes to an end.

Elevating Adventures with Ocean Parasailing

For thrill-seekers, Sea Rocket’s parasailing ventures offer an exhilarating bird’s-eye view of our beautiful city and the neighboring Assateague Island State Park. As you’re lifted high into the sky, snugly fastened, and securely linked to our trusty boat, you’ll get a whole new perspective on Ocean City! It’s a sight that’ll stick with you as you satisfy your thrill seeking desire. Hey, is that your hotel over there? Seeing it from way up here sure makes you feel like a part of this remarkable city! Who knows, this new view may pique your interest of some new places to visit once you return to land, such as the new Wedge Bar that is located right in the inlet!

Sea Rocket: Activities for All

Our repertoire at Sea Rocket extends to offer various exciting water activities for everyone. Hop onto our Banana Boat for an adrenaline-fueled ride or explore the calm waters with our kayak and Stand Up Paddle Boards [SUP] rentals. We also offer Private Party Cruises, ideal for unforgettable gatherings to share memorable moments against the beautiful backdrop of Ocean City. Angling enthusiasts can dive into a thrilling deep-sea adventure with Chaser Sportfishing, reaffirming Sea Rocket’s commitment to offering a variety of engaging activities that cater to everyone.

Welcome to the Sea Rocket Family

Sea Rocket Adventures isn’t merely a host of exciting water activities; it’s an integral part of Ocean City’s unique charm and community spirit. We are proud to partner with other local businesses, including hotels and restaurants, striving together to provide a top-notch experience for everyone. This shared endeavor echoes our commitment to the community and enriches the Ocean City experience for locals and visitors alike.

We warmly invite you to join our Sea Rocket family. Hop aboard, share in our community spirit, and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Ocean City. From soaring through the sky to cruising along the beautiful coastline, let the Sea Rocket steer toward an adventure you’ll cherish forever.

Click here to book your adventure today!

Picture this: It’s the first day of your vacation. You are planning to spend the whole day on the beach, catching a tan and cooling off in the ocean. You might people-watch for a while, maybe take a little nap, but there are a lot of hours in the day to fill. What could be a better way to complement your relaxing summer vacation than a captivating beach read?

Whether you are a seasoned reader or a rookie looking to dip your toes into the beach read waters, we’ve got the perfect reading guide for you!

Trending Books

These books have taken the book world by storm this year, racking up thousands of readers and reviews.

Fourth Wing

By Rebecca Yarros

Rated 4.68 Stars on Goodreads

In this fantasy world of dragons, a twenty-year-old Violet Sorrengail was supposed to join the quiet and peaceful Scribe Quadrant, but when her mother, a Riders Quadrant general, forces her to join the deadly Basgaith War College for dragon riders, the odds are against her. She has two choices once she joins the Riders: graduate or die.

Yellowface

By R.F. Kuang

Rated 4.11 Stars on Goodreads

An aspiring author, June Hayward, has always been overshadowed by her successful peer, Athena Liu, but she seizes an opportunity after Athena tragically dies. Impulsively, June steals Athena’s latest manuscript, publishing it under a new identity, and finds the success she’s always dreamed of. But as June, now known as Juniper Song, faces mounting evidence and a brewing scandal, the question arises: what is she willing to do to protect her stolen success?

Love, theoretically

By Ali Hazelwood

Rated 4.26 Stars on Goodreads

Elsie Hannaway, a struggling theoretical physicist, works as a “fake girlfriend” alongside her teaching job to make ends meet. However, when she encounters Jack Smith, the broody and brilliant older brother of her favorite client and a physicist who has caused her mentor’s downfall, her conflicted emotions make her pursuit of her dream job at MIT a bit more challenging than she expected.

Divine Rivals

By Rebecca Ross

Rated 4.38 Stars on Goodreads

In a fantasy twist on You’ve Got Mail, two young rival journalists, both vying for a columnist promotion, begin to exchange anonymous letters, finding a deep and unexpected connection.
But as Iris Winnow strives to keep her family together, her correspondence with her rival Roman Kitt intertwines with their journey to the front lines, shaping the fate of mankind and their own love.

Icebreaker

By Hannah Grace

Rated 4.06 Stars on Goodreads

A dedicated figure skater aiming for Team USA, is determined to win after years of hard work and sacrifices. However, when a misunderstanding forces her to share a rink with the hockey captain, their worlds collide, but she doesn’t even like hockey players…right?

Hello Beautiful

By Ann Napolitano

Rated 4.25 Stars on Goodreads

This emotional book asks the question: Can love make a broken person whole? William Waters escapes his troubled past through basketball and finds solace in Julia Padavano and her close-knit family. However, when the darkness of William’s history resurfaces, their carefully planned future and the unwavering loyalty between Julia and her sisters are put to the test, leading to a family rift that may determine their ability to reunite when it truly counts.

Non-Fiction

Take a look behind the curtain of public figures’ lives. These memoirs offer a glimpse into the world of a former child star, a writer, a musician, a former cult member and even a prince, but they also offer valuable life lessons, reflections and insights that are universal to any reader.

I’m Glad My Mom Died

By Jennette McCurdy

Rated 4.5 Stars on Goodreads

In her memoir, former child actor and iCarly star, Jennette McCurdy shares the heartbreaking and hilarious account of her struggles with eating disorders, addiction, and a complicated relationship with her overbearing mother. Through unflinching detail, she reveals the toll of fame and the aftermath of her mother’s death, leading her on a journey of recovery, self-discovery, and finding joy in the simplest acts of independence.

Spare

By Prince Harry

Rated 3.92 Stars on Goodreads

In this compelling and emotional memoir, Prince Harry reflects on the profound impact of his mother’s death and how it shaped his life. From struggling with grief and anger to finding purpose in the military and ultimately navigating the challenges of royal life, Harry’s journey is a testament to the enduring strength of love and the pursuit of personal growth.

The Many Lives of Mama Love

By Lara Love Hardin

Rated 4.5 Stars on Goodreads

From soccer mom to opioid addict to a jailhouse shot-caller, Lara Love Hardin shares the harrowing details of her descent from the average suburban mom to a jail inmate and then her unlikely resurgence as a successful ghostwriter in a gripping memoir. From navigating the power dynamics of jailhouse politics to reinventing herself after release, Lara’s journey is a testament to the power of forgiveness and redemption, even in a system that makes it difficult to move beyond past mistakes.

Losing Music

By John Cotter

Rated 4.11 Stars on Goodreads

In this honest and enlightening memoir, John Cotter recounts his journey with Ménière’s Disease, a debilitating condition that leads to hearing loss, dizziness, and profound life changes. As he navigates the limitations of the American healthcare system and grapples with the narrowing possibilities in his life, Cotter reflects on the deeper questions of fate, meaning, and the taboos surrounding disability, offering readers a poignant and transformative perspective on their own lives.

When the World Didn’t End

By Guinevere Turner

Rated 3.8 Stars on Goodreads

In this captivating memoir, Guinevere Turner shares her experience growing up in the infamous Lyman Family cult and the complexities of leaving the only home she had ever known. From waiting for salvation on the supposed doomsday to the dark secrets and challenges she faced within the cult, Turner’s heartfelt narrative delves into the pain of her upbringing and the gradual realization of the harm inflicted by her childhood environment.

Beach Reads

Get into vacation mode with these beach and vacation based books. From romance to mystery, these books are the perfect read to pair with your beach time.

Happy Place

By Emily Henry

Rated 4.18 Stars on Goodreads

Harriet and Wyn broke up 6 months ago. But they still haven’t told their friends. When their annual weeklong vacation with friends comes around they pretend to still be together, because how hard could it be to pretend after years of being in love. Between lying to their friends about their relationship status and pretending to not notice how much they still want each other, what could possibly go wrong?

Same Time Next Summer

By Annabel Monaghan

Rated 3.95 Stars on Goodreads
An engaged woman is forced to confront her first love after fourteen years, but as they are reunited at her family’s beach house, memories and unresolved feelings resurface, forcing her to question her current relationship and make a life-altering choice.

Every Summer After

By Carley Fortune
Rated 4.26 Stars on Goodreads

Persephone Fraser is drawn back to her lakeside hometown after a decade, where she reunites with Sam Florek, a long-lost love. As they navigate the pain of past mistakes and the undeniable connection they still share, they must confront their choices and decide if their love can transcend the weight of their past.

Five Star Weekend

By Elin Hilderbrand

Rated 4.28 Stars on Goodreads

After tragically losing her husband, Hollis Shaw hears about Five-Star Weekends where one woman organizes a trip for friends from all stages of her life: her teenage years, twenties, thirties, and midlife. Hollis throws her own together in Nantucket, but as old feelings resurface, secrets unravel, and unexpected challenges arise, things get complicated. This captivating story explores friendship, love, and self-discovery against the backdrop of a memorable weekend.

Summer of Broken Rules

By K.L. Walther

Rated 4 Stars on Goodreads

Meredith Fox returns to Martha’s Vineyard for a family wedding after the death of her sister. As she participates in her family’s annual game of Assassin, she forms a connection with a charming groomsman, but the budding romance jeopardizes her chances of winning the game and potentially her own heart.

It Happened One Summer

By Tessa Bailey

Rated 4.01 Stars on Goodreads

When fashionable wild child Piper Bellinger is sent to run her late father’s dive bar in a small town, she meets Brendan, a gruff sea captain who doubts her ability to adapt. As they clash and unexpectedly connect, Piper must decide between her glamorous past in LA and the newfound sense of home and love she discovers in Westport.

People We Meet on Vacation

By Emily Henry

Rated 3.91 Stars on Goodreads

“Two best friends. Ten summer trips. One last chance to fall in love.”
Poppy and Alex have been best friends for years after meeting in a rideshare in college. Every summer for a decade they’ve taken a weeklong vacation, but two years ago, something happened, and they haven’t spoken since. But Poppy misses Alex. After convincing him to go on one last trip together, she has one last chance to right the wrongs of two years ago.

The Celebrants

By Steven Rowley

Rated 3.8 Stars on Goodreads

As five college friends face the challenges of adulthood, they gather for their traditional “funerals” in Big Sur to celebrate life and support each other. However, this reunion takes an unexpected turn as Jordan holds a secret that could shake their long standing pact.

Bad Summer People

By Emma Rosenblum

Rated 3.55 Stars on GoodReads

In a summer haven on Fire Island, where infidelity and manipulation run rampant, a tight-knit group of friends finds themselves entangled in a web of deceit and murder. As secrets unravel and a body is discovered, the dark underbelly of their seemingly perfect lives is exposed.


From thrilling fantasies and heartwarming romances to thought-provoking non-fiction and suspenseful mysteries, these books offer a diverse range of stories to suit every reader’s taste. So, as you relax on the beach or unwind in your vacation spot, immerse yourself in the pages of these captivating reads, and let your imagination soar. Embrace the joy of summer reading and let these books transport you to new worlds, challenge your perspectives, and provide moments of escape and reflection. Happy reading!

And if you need to pick up your read on the way to the beach, check out our local book store, The Buzzed Word on 120th Street or the Worcester County Library’s Ocean City Branch on 100th Street.

Summer is here, and so is Ocean City’s Free Movies on the Beach event! Get ready for fun-filled evenings under the stars and in the sand, as you get the perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment. Mark your calendars because every Monday until August 7th, the town will be hosting a free movie night on 27th Street. It’s a great event to add a little variety to your vacation plans and perfect way to spend a night with your family.

Prepare for a great movie lineup featuring favorites from Disney, Pixar, and more.
Here is the lineup for this summer’s Movies on the Beach:

July 3 – Minions: The Rise of Gru
July 10 – Hotel Transylvania: Transformania
July 17 – Encanto
July 24 – Vivo
July 31 – Rock Dog 3: Battle of the Beat
August 7 – Strange World

​​*All titles subject to change without notice
*All movies are Weather Permitting

Grab your beach essentials, invite your friends and family, and get ready for a magical movie experience on the beach.