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.
