Tag: ocean city maryland

Country Calling Festival 2026 Lineup Is Announced — Here’s Why You Should Book Your Hotel Now

Posted on by Taylor

The countdown is on, the Country Calling Festival 2026 lineup has officially dropped, and excitement is already building for a standout weekend in Ocean City.

Set right along the famous Ocean City Boardwalk, this two-day beachfront festival has quickly made a name for itself as one of the top country music events on the East Coast. And if past years are any indication, nearby hotels won’t stay available for long.

Here’s what to know — and why now is the perfect time to plan your stay.

Country Calling Festival 2026 Lineup Delivers Big Names

Since launching, Country Calling has brought together a mix of superstar headliners, fan-favorite performers, and rising country artists across multiple stages set directly on the sand. This year, enjoy sets by Lainey Wilson, Rascal Flats, Dierks Bentley, Chris Stapleton and more.

The 2026 lineup continues that momentum, featuring a blend of established icons and today’s biggest country hits. Whether you’re into classic country sounds or modern chart-toppers, this year’s schedule promises nonstop energy all weekend long.

With massive crowds expected once again, hotel demand during festival dates will be extremely competitive.

Why Booking Early Gives You the Edge

Once the lineup is announced, hotel availability starts shrinking fast. Make sure to check out our past blog post on where to stay. Here’s why it pays to book sooner rather than later:

1. Be Steps from the Festival
Boardwalk and oceanfront hotels are always the first to go. Reserving early increases your chances of staying within walking distance, so you can skip traffic and avoid the hassle of finding parking.

2. More Options to Choose From
From oceanfront rooms to group-friendly suites and mid-town properties, booking ahead gives you access to the best selection before choices become limited.

3. Secure Better Pricing
As rooms fill up, nightly rates tend to climb. Locking in your reservation early can help you avoid price spikes and stay within budget.

Turn It Into a Full Ocean City Getaway

Country Calling is more than just a concert, it’s a full beachside experience. Spend your days relaxing by the ocean, grab food and drinks along the boardwalk, and enjoy live music just steps from the shore. (Don’t miss out on Harrison’s Harbor Watch & The Wedge, right inside the festival grounds!)

When the final set wraps up each night, having a nearby hotel makes it easy to unwind without dealing with crowds or transportation delays. Planning ahead means you can focus on enjoying the entire weekend, not scrambling to find a place to stay.

Rooms will become harder to find as the festival approaches. Book early and get ready for an incredible weekend of country music, coastal views, and boardwalk energy at Country Calling Festival 2026!

Best Hotels Near Country Calling Festival 2026 in Ocean City, MD

Posted on by Taylor

If you’re heading to the Country Calling Festival 2026 in Ocean City, where you stay can have a big impact on your overall experience. Travelers often begin looking for hotels near Country Calling Festival well in advance, since this beachfront country music event brings in massive crowds each day. With so many people in town, it’s common to run into heavy traffic, limited parking, and long waits for rideshares — making it even more important to secure a convenient place to stay early.

One of the smartest ways to simplify your trip is by booking a hotel close to the festival grounds. Being within walking distance means you can avoid transportation hassles, take advantage of Ocean City’s famous boardwalk, and easily return to your room whenever you need a break. After a long day of concerts, having your hotel just a short walk away makes the whole experience more enjoyable.

To make planning easier, here are some top hotel options near the Country Calling Festival in Ocean City, MD, all just a quick walk from the action.

The Oceanic Motel

Oceanic Motel — 105 S 1st St, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 0.3 miles

The Oceanic Motel is one of the closest hotels to the Country Calling Festival grounds, making it a top choice for festivalgoers who want maximum convenience. Located just a short walk away, this motel lets you go from your room to the festival stages in just minutes. Its proximity to the Ocean City boardwalk and beach also makes it a great option if you want to enjoy the ocean between sets.

Plim Plaza Hotel

Plim Plaza Hotel — 109 N Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 0.6 miles

Located directly on the Ocean City boardwalk, Plim Plaza Hotel is another excellent hotel near the Country Calling Festival. Guests can easily walk to the festival grounds while also enjoying nearby restaurants, beach access, and boardwalk attractions. Its lively atmosphere and central location make it a popular choice for visitors spending the weekend enjoying live music in Ocean City.

Harrison Hall Hotel

Harrison Hall Hotel — 1409 Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 1.5 miles

Harrison Hall Hotel is a historic oceanfront property located along the famous Ocean City boardwalk. About a 1.5-mile walk from the festival grounds, it offers a classic beachfront stay while still being conveniently close to the Country Calling music festival. Guests can enjoy ocean views, easy boardwalk access, and a relaxing place to unwind after a full day of concerts.

Courtyard Ocean City Oceanfront

Courtyard Ocean City Oceanfront — Two 15th St, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 1.5 miles

For visitors looking for a more modern stay, Courtyard Ocean City Oceanfront offers comfortable accommodations and excellent amenities. Guests can dine at the popular Captain’s Table restaurant located inside the hotel before or after attending the Country Calling Festival. Its boardwalk location also makes it easy to explore nearby attractions, shops, and restaurants.

Quality Inn Boardwalk

Quality Inn Boardwalk — 1601 Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 1.5 miles

Quality Inn Boardwalk is another convenient Ocean City hotel near the Country Calling Festival. Located right on Atlantic Avenue, the hotel provides easy access to the boardwalk and the festival area. There’s even a Starbucks just outside the hotel, making it easy to grab a coffee before heading out for a full day of music and entertainment.

Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City

Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City — 1701 Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 1.6 miles

If you prefer a full-service hotel experience, Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City is a fantastic option. Guests can enjoy amenities such as pools, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant when they’re not attending the festival. It’s a comfortable and convenient place to stay while visiting the Country Calling Festival in Ocean City, Maryland.

Where to Stay for Oceans Calling Festival in Ocean City

With large crowds expected each year, it’s a smart move to reserve a hotel near the Country Calling Festival in Ocean Cityas early as you can. Choosing a spot within walking distance helps you skip the stress of traffic and parking, while giving you the flexibility to step away from the crowds and recharge whenever needed.

From affordable motels to classic boardwalk stays and full-service oceanfront hotels, there are plenty of options that put you close to all the festival action. Book ahead to lock in your ideal stay and get set for a weekend filled with live country music, coastal views, and everything that makes Ocean City a go-to festival destination.

Meet Me in OCMD: Time to Rethink the Off-Season for Group Events in Ocean City

Posted on by Taylor

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.

Top 3 Family-Friendly Hotels in Ocean City, Maryland

Posted on by Jeff

Family Fun in OCMD!

Ocean City, Maryland has long been a favorite destination for family vacations, offering sandy beaches, the iconic Boardwalk, and attractions for all ages. Choosing the right hotel can make all the difference, and these three properties stand out for their family-friendly amenities, prime locations, and consistently positive guest experiences.

1. Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City

The Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City remains one of the most popular choices for families visiting the resort. Located oceanfront and just steps from the Boardwalk, this hotel places guests close to Ocean City’s top attractions, including amusement parks, dining, and shopping.

Spacious suites with separate living areas and kitchenettes provide families with room to relax after a day at the beach. Guests also enjoy direct beach access, indoor and outdoor pools, and convenient on-site dining. Its central location and thoughtful amenities make it an easy choice for families returning year after year. Kids also love all the fun weekly activities held poolside for no additional charge.

The hotel is located oceanfront at 1701 Atlantic Avenue in Ocean City and can be found online at OCsuites.com. We also featured this hotel in 2025 for winning the prestigious Torchbearer Award from IHG, read more about this award by clicking here.

2. Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront Suites

For families looking for a resort-style experience, Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront Suites offers both space and upscale amenities. This all-suite, oceanfront property features full kitchens, private balconies, and generous living areas, deal for extended stays or larger families.

Kids love the indoor and outdoor pools, lazy river, and recreational features, while parents appreciate the beachfront setting and well-appointed accommodations. With direct access to the beach and a wide range of on-site amenities, this hotel delivers a true oceanfront resort experience in Ocean City.

Free kids activities include learning how to juggle, arts & crafts and on a rainy day, indoor movies. Parents also love the poolside live music, that they can enjoy while the kids play in the pool. The Hilton Oceanfront Suites is located oceanfront on 32nd street in Ocean City and can be found online at OceanCityHilton.com.

3. DoubleTree by Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront

The DoubleTree by Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront is another excellent option for families seeking comfort and convenience. Located along the beach and within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and Boardwalk attractions, it offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Families enjoy oceanfront rooms with private balconies, indoor and outdoor pools, and easy beach access. Known for its warm hospitality and comfortable accommodations, the DoubleTree provides a dependable stay that balances location, amenities, and value, perfect for families looking to experience the best of Ocean City.

Look for the mermaids poolside, for a fun free kids activity that is offered all summer long. The hotel also has a full size volleyball court, large firepit and a spacious private beach area where you can lounge in a hammock or play cornhole.

The Doubletree by Hilton is located oceanfront at 33rd street in Ocean City and can be found online DoubletreeOceanCity.com. Don’t forget to get a famous freshly baked cookie at check in, a Doubletree signature experience.

BONUS! Quality Inn Oceanfront

Perfectly situated on a wide, guarded beach on 54th street, kids love to experience a tropical atmosphere retreat at this 5-story atrium, complete with exotic birds and a koi pond. Accommodations include fully-equipped efficiencies with kitchenettes, private patios or balconies, and on-site dining at the Atrium Cafe. This is a must see! Learn more at QualityInnOceanfront.com. 

Find Your Perfect Family Stay

Whether you prefer a central Boardwalk location, resort-style amenities, or a comfortable beachfront retreat, these three hotels offer outstanding options for family vacations in Ocean City, Maryland. Each provides easy access to the beach and attractions that make Ocean City a favorite year after year.

Your Guide To Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City, Maryland

Posted on by Taylor

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.

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

Posted on by Taylor

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.

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