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.
Concert week is finally here! If you’re looking for the perfect mix of sun, sand, and rock, the Boardwalk Rock Festival in Ocean City, Maryland delivers all that and more. Held right on the sand along the iconic Ocean City Boardwalk, this inaugural event is celebration of live music, local flavor, and East Coast beach culture. Checkout the updated Boardwalk Rock lineup below.
Whether you’re a die-hard rock fan or just visiting for the weekend, here’s why this festival is one of the best reasons to get to Ocean City this weekend.
The Lineup & Stages
Big names rock the stages! The Boardwalk Rock lineup boasts on Saturday its Rob Zombie, Bush, Flyleaf, Halestorm and closing the night is Def Leppard. On Sunday, rock legend Alice Cooper takes the stage along with Shinedown, Bret Michaels, Three Days Grace and Nickleback.
More Than Just Music
Beyond the incredible performances, the Boardwalk Rock Festival offers an array of activities for attendees. Visitors can explore:
Merchandise Booths – Snag exclusive festival gear and band memorabilia.
Beach & Boardwalk Fun – Take a break from the music and enjoy Ocean City’s famous beaches, arcades, and amusement rides.
Check out Dining Options – Ocean City favorites like Harrison’s Harbor Watch and The Wedge Bar are located inside the festival footprint. Enjoy great food and drink during the festival there!
The Vibe: Pure Ocean City Fun
This isn’t your average music festival. Set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, the Boardwalk Rock Festival blends beachside relaxation with high-energy entertainment. Between sets, stroll the boardwalk to grab an orange crush for the Wedge bar or sit down for a Maryland crabcake at Harrison’s Harbor Watch.
Families, couples, and groups of friends all come together in a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere that’s fun for all ages, with plenty of photo ops, local vendors, and activities for kids and adults alike.
Tips for Festival-Goers
Arrive early for the best seating and parking options.
Bring sunscreen, a beach towel, and a light jacket—it cools off at night!
Check the official festival schedule below and ahead of time to catch your favorite bands.
See the map below for the bus routes and entrances.
Don’t Miss Out on the Fun!
Whether you’re visiting from out of town or a longtime fan of Ocean City, the Boardwalk Rock Festival is an unbeatable way to experience the beach, the boardwalk, and a full day (or weekend) of unforgettable music. With a friendly crowd, nonstop energy, and a picture-perfect setting, it’s the kind of event that makes Ocean City memories last a lifetime.
Big news today for country music fans! Promoters announced today that the festival will be a three day event, adding an extra day over last year. The 2025 festival is scheduled for October 3-5, 2025. While the lineup for 2025 has not yet been announced, attendees can expect a similar format with multiple stages and a diverse selection of country artists.
The Country Calling Festival is an annual country music event held in Ocean City, Maryland. The inaugural festival took place on October 4-5, 2024, featuring over 25 artists performing across three stages—two on the beach and one along the boardwalk.
Now’s the time to reserve your hotel reservations, with 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! For more information on the concert, please visit CountryCallingFestival.com.
Ocean City, Maryland, is gearing up to celebrate its 150th anniversary with the inaugural Rising Tides Festival on November 22, 2025. This dynamic event, presented by Ocean City Tourism, promises a nostalgic journey through the music and culture of the 70s, 90s, and 2000s, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center along Assawoman Bay.
Musical Lineup
The festival boasts an impressive lineup that will transport attendees back in time:
Forever Young Tour: Hosted by Chris Kirkpatrick of *NSYNC, this segment features the “I Love the 90s” and “Pop 2000s” tours, bringing together iconic artists from these vibrant decades.
70’s Soul Jam: Hosted by J.J. Walker, this segment will feature classic hits from the 70s, offering a soulful journey back in time.
Beyond the music, the Rising Tides Festival offers a variety of immersive activities. These include roller skating, silent disco and brand activations.
Event Details
Date: November 22, 2025
Time: 2 PM – 10 PM
Location: Roland E. Powell Convention Center, Ocean City, Maryland
Tickets are available for purchase through the official event page here.
The Rising Tides Festival is a highlight of Ocean City’s “150 Reasons to Smile” anniversary celebrations, reflecting the town’s rich history and vibrant community spirit. As Tom Perlozzo, Director of Tourism and Business Development for Ocean City Tourism, stated, “This throwback festival will celebrate the charm and nostalgia of the past while embracing the vibrant spirit of Ocean City.”
Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, the Rising Tides Festival offers a unique opportunity to relive cherished memories and create new ones in a town that has been a beloved destination for generations.
The Winterfest of Lights is back in Ocean City, Maryland, spreading holiday magic across the town. This year, the Art League of Ocean City invites you to make the season even brighter by participating in its annual “Trees for the Arts” event—a festive competition about creativity, community, and giving back.
From November 21st to December 31st, step into the Winterfest Pavilion to marvel at a dazzling display of 24 uniquely decorated trees. Each tree is lovingly crafted by local businesses and organizations, including some of your favorite Ocean City hotels and restaurants. Together, they’re lighting up the holidays for a great cause.
How It Works:
Vote for Your Favorites: Each vote costs $1, and you can vote as often as you like. Every dollar raised will support the Art League’s youth programs. VOTE FOR US BY CLICKING HERE
Help Choose the Winner: The tree with the most votes at the end of Winterfest will receive a $1,000 cash prize. Your votes could help your favorite tree take the crown!
What Makes It Special:
“Trees for the Arts” is more than a holiday event—it celebrates Ocean City’s creative spirit. Each tree tells its own story, showcasing the talent and festive imagination of the people and businesses that make this town shine.
OCMD Hotels and OCMD Restaurants will both have a tree decorated to represent all of your favorite properties! Here’s a sneak peek at what you can look forward to when you go to vote for yourself.
Plan Your Visit:
Tickets for the Winterfest of Lights are available at ococean.com. Stop by the pavilion to see the trees, cast your votes, and enjoy the lights.
Don’t miss the chance to celebrate the season, support local art programs, and make cherished memories with friends and family. Cast your votes, spread the holiday cheer, and let the magic of “Trees for the Arts” light up your winter!
Ocean City’s Sunfest 2024 wrapped up another incredible year, filling the beach with energy, live music, and sunshine! This year’s festival offered everything fans love, from thrilling performances and unique crafts to mouthwatering food options—all under perfect weather conditions, making it an unforgettable celebration of summer’s end!
Stellar Line-Up of Artists
This year’s lineup brought something for everyone, with standout performances like Kayleigh Clark. With a mix of rock, country, pop, and local favorites, the festival’s headliners and supporting acts created an unforgettable atmosphere that amplified the fun.
Exciting Events and Activities
Beyond the music, Sunfest offered an array of activities to engage and entertain. Visitors wandered through artisan booths, watched Dock Dogs, explored the beach maze, and more! The food vendors didn’t disappoint, serving classic beach bites along with unique festival fare like Gosia’s Pierogies and sweet and savory crepes. Kids enjoyed family-friendly games, face painting, and interactive activities, making Sunfest an event for everyone.
Perfect Weather to Top It Off
Adding to the magic, this year’s Sunfest enjoyed ideal weather—sunny skies, mild ocean breezes, and warm temperatures. This made the outdoor experience even more enjoyable, whether visitors were lounging on the sand, strolling the festival grounds, or dancing along to their favorite tunes. They were kidding when they named the stage “Beach Stage”.
Until Next Year!
As the final day came to a close, Sunfest reminded everyone why it’s one of Ocean City’s most cherished traditions. The festival was the perfect farewell to summer, setting the stage for an even bigger celebration next year!
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