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 n 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.
In the era of French Impressionism, “en plein air” painting was introduced. The technique involves painting “in the open air” to draw inspiration from one’s surroundings. This July, the OC Art League has reintroduced the “Kids Paint OC” contest focusing on this method! With over $500 in cash prizes and no fee to enter, it’s time for any young artist to pick up their brushes and paint!
Painting Criteria
One entry is permitted per artist. All submissions must be:
Painted outdoors
Made by an artist ages 6-17
Created in July 2025
Original work
Traditional media (not digital)
Less than 8×10-inches
Submitted by August 7, 2025 to the Arts Center
Free painting kits are available at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St. bayside, courtesy of the Art League. Participants will also receive a “Kids Paint OC” shirt while supplies last!
“We hope any young person interested in the arts will take up the brush and make a plein air painting,” Rina Thaler, Art League Executive Director, said. “Then come to the Arts Center on August 17 to see their work displayed and experience what it’s like to have their art exhibited.”
More information is available here or by calling the Arts Center at 410-524-9433. For more events, read here.
The Art League of Ocean City is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting artistic expression and appreciation for the creative arts in our communitythrough education, exhibits, scholarship, programs, and community art projects. Funding is provided in part by the Worcester County Arts Council, Maryland State Arts Council, and the National Endowment of the Arts, organizations dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive.
At Quality Inn Oceanfront, exceptional guest care is a team effort, and June’s Employees of the Month truly embody that spirit. Known for their warm hospitality and attention to detail, they consistently go above and beyond to ensure every guest feels welcome and comfortable. Whether it’s maintaining spotless rooms or promptly addressing guest needs, their dedication never goes unnoticed. Their commitment reflects the hotel’s core values of genuine care and outstanding service. Thanks to their hard work, every stay at Quality Inn Oceanfront feels personal and memorable. It’s that extra attention that keeps guests coming back year after year.
Housekeeping—De’Myron Showell
We are proud to recognize De’Myron as our Employee of the Month for June for the housekeeping department! De’Myron has been a valued member of our team since October 16, 2005, and currently serves as our Head Inspector. His dedication, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence set the standard for our department every day. De’Myron’s years of service reflect his loyalty not only to the company but to his team, and we are grateful for his hard work and leadership. Congratulations, De’Myron — this recognition is well deserved!
Maintenance—Russell Parker
We are proud to recognize Russell as our Employee of the Month for June for the maintenance department! Russell, our Pool Guru, has been a valued member of our team since December 10, 1986. With nearly four decades of dedication, his expertise, work ethic, and commitment to excellence continue to shine. Russell ensures our pool and facilities are always at their best, and his positive attitude leaves a lasting impression on both guests and team members. Thank you, Russell, for your outstanding service and loyalty — this recognition is truly well earned!
Front Desk—Shemiah Goodman
We’re thrilled to recognize Shemaiah as our Employee of the Month for June for the front desk department! Since joining us on May 9, 2022, Shemaiah has been a shining example of what it means to provide excellent guest service. Her professionalism, friendly demeanor, and dedication make her a standout front desk representative. She is also leading our contest for the most guest compliments on Medallia, a testament to the positive impression she leaves on everyone she meets. Thank you, Shemaiah, for all that you do—we’re grateful to have you on our team.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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 5th and 6th have a variety of special events you won’t want to miss.
On July 5th, 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.
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?
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.
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’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.
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
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!
Get ready to celebrate at Springfest 2025! From April 24-27, this beloved festival brings four days of live music, incredible shopping, delicious food, and exciting activities—all with FREE admission. There are over 30 free bands as well as ticked performances for entertainment, unique artisan vendors, and special 150th-anniversary celebrations. Mark your calendar and join us for a can’t-miss weekend!
With the inlet lot being closed for this event, parking will be sure to fill up fast. If you’re staying at one of our hotels, consider using the city’s bus service or even taking a stroll down the boardwalk to Springfest. The event is rain or shine, so remember to dress for the conditions!
Thursday: STRANGELOVE The Depeche Mode Experience 7pm
Friday: Hunter Hayes 7pm
Saturday: The Legendary Wailers feat. Junior Marvin & Passafire 6pm
Shopping, Vendors, & Food!
One of the best reasons to come to Springfest is walking through all the tents of artisans and merchants! You can find 8 tents featuring over 200 vendors each, with everything from jewelry and garden sculptures to dog accessories and bath products.
Another favorite reason you’ll find locals and tourists alike at Springfest has to be the food! You can find anything from fresh seafood, Korean and Asian specialties, pit beef, Philly cheesesteaks, gourmet sausages, deep-fried candy bars, soft pretzels, and so much more! Enjoy onsite, or go browsing for things to take home for later! Vendors will also be on-site selling jams, Amish goods, seasonings, olive oils, and other delicious treats.
Other Fun Can’t-Miss Things at Springfest 2025!
Experience a variety of events including a sea glass workshop, yoga on the beach, outdoor games, and a fun scavenger hunt. In celebration of Ocean City’s 150th anniversary, enjoy a stunning flower wall, hands-on workshops, and the 150th Walk of Years showcasing historic photos and exhibits. You also don’t want to miss the OC Stars performance, which is one of Springfest’s annual traditions.
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