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

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. 

Ocean Pines Farmers and Artisans Market

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. 

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!

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!

Your Guide To Springfest 2025

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!

Thursday-Saturday 10:00am – 8pm, Sunday 10:00am – 6pm

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!

If you’re still looking for lodging options, Plim Plaza and The Oceanic are only steps away from Springfest! Visit our page on hotels for more information.

Live Music

Not only are there over 30 free live performances on the two main stages, there is also ticketed headliners to bring the fun to Ocean City! Visit the full lineup and purchase tickets here.

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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