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OC Rock & Ride: Bikefest 2025

Posted on August 27, 2025August 27, 2025 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 August 19, 2025September 16, 2025 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.

Holiday Inn & Suites on 17th Street in Ocean City, Maryland Wins Prestigious Torchbearer Award from IHG® Hotels & Resorts

Posted on July 23, 2025August 5, 2025 by Jeff

Ocean City, MD – The Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City, located on 17th Street and the Boardwalk, is proud to announce it has received the 2024 IHG® Torchbearer Award, the highest honors granted by IHG Hotels & Resorts. This elite recognition is awarded to hotels that have achieved the highest levels of excellence in quality, service, and overall guest satisfaction.

The Torchbearer Award places the Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City among the top-performing properties within the IHG global portfolio, which includes more than 6,000 hotels in over 100 countries. This distinction is a testament to the hotel’s unwavering commitment to hospitality, operational excellence, and creating memorable guest experiences.

Owned and operated by the Harrison Group, one of the most established hospitality companies in mid-Atlantic region, the Holiday Inn & Suites has long been a flagship destination for visitors seeking upscale accommodation with stunning oceanfront views, resort-style amenities, and the warmth of family-owned service.

“We are deeply honored to receive the IHG Torchbearer Award,” said Natalie Vallieres, General Manager of the hotel. “This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of our incredible team, who strive every day to deliver a world-class experience to our guests. It also reaffirms our long-standing commitment to excellence and to Ocean City as a premier destination.”

The hotel features spacious suites with private balconies, an on-site fine dining restaurant, indoor and outdoor pools, and a prime location just steps from the beach and on Ocean City Boardwalk. The Torchbearer Award solidifies its position as not just a local favorite, but a national standard-bearer for hospitality.

For more information about the Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City or to book your stay, please visit www.ocsuites.com or click here to learn more about them on this website. Make sure to follow the hotel on social media at the handle of ocsuites on Facebook and Instagram. The Harrison Group corporate office is located in Ocean City, Maryland and can be found online at www.harrisongrouphotels.com.

General Manager Natalie Vallerieres pictured with the award and members of her manangement team.

Ocean City, Maryland’s Top Ten Places to Visit

Posted on July 2, 2025July 2, 2025 by Haven

From the shores of Assateague Island to Jolly Roger Splash Mountain, Ocean City has a collection of attractions like no other! To help narrow the list of possibilities, these are Ocean City, Maryland’s top ten places to visit.

10: Paradise Watersports

With the largest reserved jet ski area in Ocean City, Paradise Watersports is a great destination for a thrilling experience on the water! You can rent a jet ski, go parasailing, or even climb aboard a safari boat for a tour of the wild ponies and animals of Assateague Island. You can also board their tiki boat for the ultimate party experience! Each boat is equipped with a Coast Guard Certified Captain and first mate to ensure a safe and exciting time.

9: Dumsers Dairyland

Since 1939, Dumsers Dairyland has been a part of Ocean City’s nostalgic beach-town atmosphere. Whether you’re searching for a quick treat or a place to relax in the hot summer weather, any of Dumsers Dairyland’s seven locations will be perfect for you! You can choose from many types of soft serve ice cream, hand scooped ice cream, milkshakes, sundaes, sorbet’s, specials, and more!

8: Baja Amusements

Ever since its first race in 1981, Baja Amusements has delivered fun for all ages on their 8 high-speed go-kart tracks. Kids as young as 5 years old can have their turn behind the wheel on the Junior Speedway. Baja also features several rides including a carousel, the frog hopper, and the spin zone! If you’re looking for even more excitement, you can try your hand at mini golf, test your skills in the arcade, or grab a snack and relax between races. With a mix of adrenaline-pumping tracks and attractions, Baja Amusements is the best stop for a full day of fun!

7: Jolly Roger Splash Mountain

Jolly Roger at 30th St. is a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals looking for family-friendly fun in Ocean City! One of the park’s four areas is Splash Mountain, home to 16 thrilling water slides that offer something for every age. Among them is the Aqualoop, a 360º semi-transparent looping slide that’s the only one of its kind on the East Coast! Park passes are available at the main entrance, but visitors should keep an eye out for discounted passes offered at participating OCMD hotels.

6: Harrison’s Harbor Watch

Whether you’re planning a relaxing date night or looking for the perfect lunch spot, Harrison’s Harbor Watch is a must-visit. With its unmatched views of the inlet, the setting is as memorable as the meal. The restaurant is also well-suited for groups, offering spacious booths and large tables for comfortable dining. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes made with high-quality ingredients, making it a go-to destination for anyone craving a taste of the coast.

5: Trimper Rides

If you’re looking to add a little thrill to your Ocean City visit, Trimper Rides on the boardwalk is a great place to start. Just steps away from Harrison’s Harbor Watch, you can end your visit with a meal by the inlet. Trimpers offers 22 rides that range from classic carousels to high-energy roller coasters, making it a staple of the Ocean City experience.

4: Northside Park

Northside Park is a scenic 58-acre bayfront recreational space offering year-round fun for everybody! Visitors in the summer can enjoy Sundaes in the Park for free bayside concerts and beautiful sunset views. After the sun sets, fireworks are set off over the bay as a magical end to an unforgettable night.

3: The Wave Riding School

If you’re looking to catch some waves during your visit in Ocean City, there’s not better place to go than K-Coast Surf Shop! Partnered with the Wave Riding School, the shop offers 1.5 hour long surf lessons at only $99. The school’s team of instructors are among the best, ensuring a safe and productive experience for surfers of any level. Call or text 443-203-WAVE (9283) for details and book online today!

2: Breakfast at Coastal Salt

Coastal Salt opened its doors in the Spring of 2020 with visions of providing excellent culinary experiences through honest, inventive, and locally sourced cuisine. Located right on the boardwalk, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the early morning sun with a fresh ocean breeze! Coastal Salt has a wonderful breakfast menu complete with different types of omelets and morning delicacies.

1: Assateague Island

Assateague Island is an unforgettable destination, best known for its wildlife that roam freely across the beaches and marshes. The island’s coastline offers a place for swimming and sunbathing without the crowds. Hiking and biking trails wind through the area, offering beautiful views and encounters with herds of wild ponies. Whether you’re drawn by wildlife, adventure, or relaxation, Assateague is a destination for every type of traveler!

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

Posted on June 27, 2025June 27, 2025 by Haven

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 5^th and 6^th have a variety of special events you won’t want to miss.

Ocean Pines Farmers and Artisans Market

On July 5^th, 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.

2025 OCMD Hotels Photo Contest Is Back!

Posted on May 16, 2025May 13, 2025 by admin

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!

Honoring Our Heroes: Special Military Discount at Our Ocean City, Maryland Hotels

Posted on May 15, 2025May 15, 2025 by admin

At our Ocean City, Maryland hotels, we are proud to show our appreciation for the brave men and women who serve our country. As a small token of our gratitude, we’re pleased to offer an exclusive military discount to all active duty service members.

We understand the sacrifices you make every day, and we want to provide you with a place to relax, unwind, and enjoy all that Ocean City has to offer—at a great value. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a romantic weekend, or just a few days of well-deserved rest, we’re here to make your stay as comfortable and welcoming as possible.

From all of us, thank you for your service. We look forward to welcoming you to our Ocean City hotels and making your stay one to remember.

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