September 2025 OCDC

Downtown Ocean City has everything

Discover fun, food, shopping, events and entertainment in downtown OC

There's something magical about Ocean City in September. As the summer crowds thin out and the kids head back to school, this beloved coastal destination transforms into something even more special—a place where you can truly breathe, explore, and fall in love with everything the shore has to offer.

Picture this: cooler ocean breezes, shorter lines at your favorite Boardwalk treats, and that perfect balance of warm days and comfortable evenings. September in Ocean City offers all the summer fun you crave without the peak season hustle.

For many visitors, it's become their favorite time of year here, and once you experience it yourself, you'll understand why. Residents will tell you the same thing — after months of bustling summer energy, September brings a welcome rhythm that lets you truly savor what makes Ocean City special.

Start the month off with Wine on the Beach, Ocean City's most beloved celebration of regional wines and coastal culture. Picture this: you're lounging on pristine sand with your favorite people and a perfectly chilled bottle of wine in hand, while the ocean breeze carries the sounds of live music across the beach. It's the kind of experience that makes summer memories last a lifetime.

This year's festival brings together everything that

makes Wine on the Beach special. Browse unique creations from talented artisans and crafters, savor mouthwatering Delmarva food specialties, and dance to an incredible lineup of performers on the oceanfront stage. This event is held at the inlet from Sept. 5-6. The excitement continues with OC Rock and Ride Bikefest from Sept. 10-14, when the largest motorcycle rally on the East Coast roars into town. Feel the rumble of excitement as impressive bikes fill the streets throughout the city.

Beyond the spectacular motorcycle displays, OC Rock and Ride delivers four nights of incredible concerts at the inlet parking lot. This year's lineup includes Blandini, Continued on page 4

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Discover Downtown Ocean City

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September: Perfect time to experience OC

Slaughter, Queensryche, Quiet Riot, and more. Whether you ride or not, the energy is infectious and the music unforgettable. Experience the magic as Ocean City's skyline transforms into a kaleidoscope of color from Sept. 18-21 at the 47th Annual Sunfest Kite Festival on the iconic Boardwalk. This world-class celebration ranks among the planet's top 100 most popular events, and admission is completely FREE.

Prepare to be amazed by spectacular giant kites featuring mermaids, dragons, whales, and beloved characters like Snoopy, while skilled quad-line teams perform breathtaking aerial choreography to music with up to 16 kites flying in perfect formation.

Throughout the four-day festival, families can enjoy candy drops from soaring kites, participate in free flying lessons, watch mesmerizing bubble shows, and join the excitement in the small kite field.

As the month continues, prepare for something truly extraordinary with the Oceans Calling Music Festival from Sept. 26-28.

This three-day celebration transforms eight blocks of Ocean City's Boardwalk into a world-class concert venue. With headliners such as Green Day, Lenny Kravitz, Noah Kahan, Fall Out Boy, and Weezer, plus incredible supporting acts including O.A.R., The Black Crowes, Cake, Collective

Soul, Train, and Ziggy Marley, every music lover will find their perfect moment.

Celebrity chefs Robert Irvine, the Voltaggio Brothers, and Antonia Lofaso add culinary excitement to this unique Bardwalk experience, creating a festival that engages all your senses.

But Ocean City's appeal extends far beyond these spectacular events. The town's miles of pristine, well-maintained beaches remain one of its greatest treasures, and they're always free for everyone to enjoy.

September's ocean temperatures stay invitingly warm for swimming, while the gentler crowds make it ideal for peaceful strolls, surfing, or boogie boarding.

Don't miss the chance to book a beach bonfire—a magical family experience that creates memories to last a lifetime.

You'll find all the details at ocbonfires.com for this unique opportunity to gather around crackling flames with the ocean as your backdrop.

When you're ready to explore beyond the sand, Ocean City's legendary Boardwalk beckons with nearly three miles of pure entertainment. Every step offers something new, from thrilling rides at Jolly Roger at the Pier and classic Trimper Rides at the inlet to fascinating stops like the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum.

Duck into local surf shops, challenge yourself at arcade games that are infinitely more fun than anything on your phone, and soak in the timeless charm

that makes this boardwalk world-famous.

Your taste buds are in for a remarkable treat throughout your September visit. Start with iconic boardwalk classics—sweet caramel corn, hand-pulled saltwater taffy, and boardwalk pizza that tastes like summer itself.

Then elevate your dining experience with Ocean City's exceptional seafood restaurants, many offering stunning waterfront views that make every meal memorable. The combination of fresh catches and spectacular scenery creates dining experiences you'll talk about for years.

When it's time for drinks, you'll discover the perfect spot whether you prefer the authentic local atmosphere of Wicomico Street's neighborhood bars or the sophisticated ambiance of bayside establishments where spectacular sunsets provide natural entertainment.

Many venues feature live music that keeps the good times rolling well into the evening, creating the perfect soundtrack for your Ocean City memories.

September's perfect weather makes it ideal for Ocean City's endless outdoor adventures. Rent a Jetski or pontoon boat and explore the bayside waters at your own pace, or book an ocean charter fishing trip for the chance to catch tuna or even marlin.

Not interested in an adventure on the water? No problem! There’s still plenty for you to do at the newly renovated Bay-

side Park at 3rd Street; visit the country's oldest municipal skate park—the Ocean Bowl Skate Park—or enjoy the tennis and pickleball courts, basketball courts, and playgrounds that provide fun for the entire family.

Consider renting bikes to discover the hidden corners of downtown Ocean City from a different perspective. With multiple rental options available, cycling offers the perfect way to cover more ground while enjoying the pleasant September weather and taking in the sights you might miss from a car.

Whether you're drawn by world-class music festivals, the allure of perfect beach days, exceptional dining experiences, or simply the chance to experience this iconic destination at its most relaxing and welcoming time, September in Ocean City offers something magical for everyone. The shoulder season brings with it the perfect blend of summer warmth and autumn comfort, creating an atmosphere where you can truly connect with what makes this place special.

Come discover why so many people consider September the best time to fall in love with Ocean City. Your perfect coastal getaway is waiting, complete with unforgettable festivals, pristine beaches, incredible food, and that special September magic that transforms a great vacation into an extraordinary experience you'll treasure forever.

Sept. 5-6

Downtown Events September 2025

Wine on the Beach 2025

This festival returns to the Ocean City Inlet for a celebration of the regional wine industry. This event will also include unique artisans and crafters, Delmarva cuisine, and live flip flop music on the oceanfront stage. The festival runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on both days, and tickets sell for $35 in advance and $45 at the gate. Visit winefest.com to purchase tickets in advance.

Sept. 7

OC Cruzers on Somerset Plaza

The OC Cruzers continue their classic car shows on Somerset Plaza. These shows are family friendly and free to the public. Stroll Somerset Plaza and check out an array of classics, hot rods, and custom cars. Beach Bandit Duo will perform live music on this date. The show takes place from 3-6 p.m.

Sept. 10-14

OC Rock and Ride Bikefest

This annual event replaces the former OC Bikefest. Major headliners for this year’s festival include Bandini, Slaughter,

Queensryche, and Quiet Riot. Vendors, demos, and other attractions will be set up at the inlet parking lot and convention center. Full festival details and ticket information can be found at ocrockandride.com.

Sept. 11

Parade of Brothers Boardwalk Ride

Hosted by the Red Knights Motorcycle Club (MD-3), this motorcycle ride down the Boardwalk will honor those lost on 9/11 and raise money for local charities. Registration for riding starts at 9 a.m. at 27th Street on the boardwalk, with the parade beginning at 11:30 a.m. The registration fee is $30, and the first 400 riders will receive a commemorative pin.

Sept. 18-21

Sunfest Kite Festival

Between 3rd and 7th Streets, the Boardwalk and beach will be filled with kite enthusiasts and a kaleidoscope of kites of all shapes and sizes. Included in this festival are giant kite air shows, sport kite and quad kite demos, free kite lessons, candy drops, a giant

bubble show, and more. Visit kiteloft.com for additional information about this amazing family-friendly event.

Sept. 14

OC Cruzers on Somerset Plaza

The OC Cruzers host their final classic car show for 2025 on Somerset Plaza. These shows are family friendly and free to the public. Stroll Somerset Plaza and check out an array of classics, hot rods, and custom cars. Music will be provided by a DJ. The show takes place from 3-6 p.m.

Sept. 26-28

Oceans Calling Music Festival

Returning after major success in 2023 and 2024, Oceans Calling is a 3-day music festival headlined by world famous talent such as Green Day, Noah Kahan, and Weezer. This festival takes place on the beach and Boardwalk south of N. Division Street. This is a ticketed event, with verified resale tickets available at oceanscallingfestival.com.

Property transformations with OCDC grants

With September ushering in the shoulder season for Ocean City, you may be looking at your house or business and thinking about making some changes.

Perhaps the siding is cracked and faded, or the roof is missing more than a few shingles. Or maybe you’ve noticed your power bill draining your bank account from all that air conditioning you used during the dog days of summer. You wonder how much energy you were bleeding through your drafty windows and doors.

Now is the time to begin planning for “construction season.”

You only have until next spring to finish any renovations you’re looking to

complete at your business, rental property, or residence.

The Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) has the funding to help you make it happen. With over two decades of success supporting downtown transformation, the OCDC offers generous grant programs that can help you create the business or home of your dreams.

Business owners can launch or expand with up to $20,000 in combined funding through two key programs. The Business Assistance program provides up to $10,000 for interior buildouts at new locations, perfect for creating that dream coffee shop, restaurant, or surf shop.

Meanwhile, the Commercial Façade Improvement program offers any existing or new location up to $10,000 for stunning exterior upgrades, including awnings, windows, doors, and siding.

Property owners have multiple residential improvement options available. The Façade Improvement program provides up to $7,500 for exterior upgrades, while the Green Building program offers the same amount for energy-efficient windows, doors, and insulation.

Additional programs include roof improvement grants of up to $2,000 for roof replacement, streetside fence funding up to $2,000 for attractive fencing, and downtown lighting grants

of up to $500 for enhanced exterior lighting.

Hundreds of downtown properties have already been transformed through OCDC programs. These grants help preserve Ocean City's historic charm while creating a vibrant, attractive downtown that benefits everyone.

Take action today by contacting Program Manager David Noonan at (410) 289-7739 or email at david@ocdc.org before starting any construction work. Don't miss this opportunity to access valuable funding that can turn your property dreams into reality.

Programs generally target properties south of 17th Street. Additional eligibility requirements apply.

Discover Ocean City: Beach and so much more to enjoy

While Ocean City's 10 miles of pristine coastline and vibrant summer events — from free concerts to spectacular fireworks — draw millions of visitors each year, the resort town offers so much more than sun and surf.

Whether you're seeking quiet family time away from the crowds or looking to explore the area's rich history and natural beauty, Ocean City and its surrounding communities provide countless opportunities for discovery.

Green spaces and recreation

Ocean City's network of 15 parks offers peaceful retreats and familyfriendly activities throughout the resort town. At the heart of the park system lies North Side Park, a sprawling 58-acre complex at 125th Street that serves as a recreational hub for visitors and locals alike.

The park features playgrounds, sports fields, picnic pavilions with grills, and a mile-long walking path perfect for evening strolls. Its crown jewel is a 935-foot fishing and crabbing pier where no license is required — just bring your gear and enjoy the bay views.

Every Sunday from 7 to 9 p.m., families gather for "Sundaes in the Park," featuring make-your-own sundae activities and live music, followed by fireworks. Best of all, admission and parking are completely free.

Bayside Park at 3rd Street, just two blocks from the Boardwalk, offers something special for families with children of all abilities. The park includes an all-access playground featuring a communication board, quiet grove, and music hut, alongside traditional play areas. Visitors can enjoy bay views from the walking path or stay active on the basketball, pickleball, and tennis courts.

Ocean City maintains 12 additional green spaces open from dawn to dusk, each offering different amenities. Sunset Park on South Division Street provides panoramic views of Assateague Island and Sinepuxent Bay, making it the perfect spot for sunset views and photographs.

For those seeking active recreation, Little Salisbury Park at 94th Street bayside features tennis courts, a basketball court, playground equipment, and the popular Ocean City Dog Playground.

Gorman Park at 136th Street and Derrickson Avenue offers recreational experiences with pavilions, grills, a playground, and courts for racquetball, tennis, and pickleball.

More information about Ocean City’s parks can be found on the Department of Recreation and Parks page at oceancitymd.gov.

Year-round sports and activities

Ocean City's recreational opportu-

nities extend far beyond seasonal beach activities. The Ocean City Racquet Center on 61st Street Bayside features six asphalt pickleball courts, four Premier tennis courts, and three Lee Fast Dray clay courts, providing options for players of all skill levels.

Adventure seekers will find their thrills at Ocean Bowl Skate Park on 3rd Street at St. Louis Avenue. This 17,000-square-foot concrete facility includes hit walls, hips, bowls, and a vertical gnarwall, plus an 11,000square-foot street course with rails, boxes, and ledges. The skate park celebrated the opening of its administrative building in August with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Golf enthusiasts can experience Eagles Landing Golf off Route 611, the road to Assateague Island. Recognized as Ocean City's premier golf course, the well-maintained greens offer stunning views of Sinepuxent Bay and Assateague Island National Seashore, with refreshment options and competitive tee time deals.

When the weather calls for indoor activities, the Carousel Hotel at 118th Street features ice skating with sessions running Sunday through Thursday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. and 7:30 to 10 p.m. and Friday from 10 a. m. to 10 p.m. At $8 admission with skate rental available, it's an affordable family activity.

Ocean Lanes on Coastal Highway at 72nd Street offers regulation 10pin bowling with a full bar, food service, and bumper bowling for children. The facility operates daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with extended hours until 11 PM on weekends.

Angling adventures

Ocean City's fishing opportunities cater to both novice and experienced anglers, with several license-free locations throughout the area.

The Ocean Pier behind Jolly Roger at the Pier Amusement Park allows visitors to bring their own equipment or rent rods, nets, and bait on-site.

Common catches include bass, bluefish, croaker, skate, and rays, while crabbing opportunities yield blue crabs, horseshoe crabs, and occasionally seahorses.

The Oceanic Pier, located at the southernmost end of S. Philadelphia Avenue, extends more than 450 feet into the inlet, providing excellent bay fishing access. The facility includes equipment rentals, cleaning tables, ample seating, and restroom facilities, plus exceptional sunset views.

Additional free fishing zones include the Bayside Boardwalk at Bayside Park at 3rd Street, the 9th Street Fishing Pier on Edgewater Avenue, and the Northside Park pier. For regulations and additional information, visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website at www.eregulations.com.

Bayside Park deserves a visit

Cultural and educational experiences

The Ocean City Life Saving Station Museum on the Boardwalk at the Inlet offers fascinating glimpses into local maritime history. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the museum charges $6 for adults while children 11 and under visit free.

One block from the Boardwalk, the Museum of Ocean City at Dorchester Street and S. Baltimore Avenue complements the maritime experience. Adult admission is $6, or visitors can purchase a combined ticket for both museums for $10. Children 11 and under enjoy free admission to both facilities.

Ocean City Center for the Arts at 94th Street showcases regional and local artists in its two-story gallery. Open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the facility offers free admission and features pottery studios, classrooms, an art library, and five artist studios. Families can participate in free Saturday Kids Crafts from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on a drop-in basis.

The Worcester County Library at Coastal Highway and 100th Street provides diverse programming in its modern, environmentally friendly facility.

Activities range from chess and

mahjong clubs to green screen photography for teens and story time for young children. All programs are free, with schedules available at worcesterlibrary.org/branches/ocean -city.

All attractions in Ocean City are accessible by car, on foot, or via the Ocean City Beach Bus with convenient $4 ride-all-day passes, making exploration both affordable and environmentally friendly.

Beyond Ocean City

A short drive from Ocean City provides additional adventures for families to enjoy. Take Route 611 south to Assateague Island and explore over 37 miles of coastline that offers pristine beaches and opportunities to spot the famous wild horses that roam freely across the landscape.

The charming town of Berlin, just 20 minutes from downtown Ocean City, epitomizes small-town Maryland with tree-lined streets, boutique shopping, excellent restaurants, and local breweries.

The Sunday farmers market from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. features local farmers, live music, and fresh baked goods. Attractions include the Mermaid Museum and Jeffrey Auxer Design's glass blowing classes.

Snow Hill preserves Maryland's history through its collection of historic churches, homes, and buildings

listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The area provides free public boat launches and convenient Pocomoke River access for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.

In Pocomoke City, the Delmarva Discovery Center at 2 Market Street combines education with entertainment through interactive displays, including the North American River Otter Exhibit, Dinosaur Fossil Exhibit, and Boat Building Exhibit.

The center operates Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. More information about Berlin,

Snow Hill, and Pocomoke City can be found at visitmarylandscoast.org.

The Salisbury Zoo at 755 South Park Drive in Salisbury features species native to the Americas and Australia along fully accessible, paved pathways. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with free admission.

Whether you spend your time exploring Ocean City's hidden parks, diving into maritime history, or venturing to nearby communities, the area offers endless opportunities for discovery. Plan your activities today and discover the treasures that make this coastal region truly special.

SOUVENIRS AS MEMORABLE

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Sunset Park Party Nights wrap up memorable season

Sunset Park Party Nights concluded in August after another successful year of free, community concerts.

A special surprise this year was the Fitzkee Brothers performed an amazing show on Aug. 7 with unexpected guests Melody Trucks and her brother, Vaylor, jumping in for a set.

Melody and Vaylor are the children of the late Butch Trucks, who drummed for the Allman Brothers, and are also related to members of the Tedeshi Trucks Band and Widespread Panic.

Shore Craft Beer Fest will be held at new Bayside Park

The OCDC and Shore Craft Beer are excited to announce the return of the OCtoberfest Shore Craft Beer Fest to Bayside Park.

This annual craft beer festival, which has been held in downtown Ocean City for more than a decade, has seen some changes over the past few years.

As the festival has continued to grow, the event was moved to a larger venue, Bayside Park on 3rd Street. This venue continues the tradition of offering stunning bayside views for attendees while they sip on local craft brews.

This year, the festival has moved

its date to Nov.1. The promoters note that moving the date back to November allows attendees to take advantage of lower hotel prices and avoids conflicts with other shoulder season events in Ocean City.

“This event checks multiple boxes for the OCDC,” said OCDC’s executive director, Zach Bankert. “It’s a great event that brings people to OC during the shoulder season, it acts as a fundraiser for the OCDC, and it utilizes Bayside Park, which is honestly a jewel of downtown Ocean City. We’d like to thank our partners at Shore Craft Beer, who really make this event happen, and the

Renovated skate park earns high marks in downtown OC

The community celebrated the grand opening of the administrative building at the Ocean Bowl Skate Park last month with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Attended by local officials, representatives from the Maryland Gen-

eral Assembly, community leaders, and residents, the ceremony completed the over two-year redevelopment journey that began with breaking ground in April of 2023.

The Ocean Bowl Skate Park is located at Bayside Park at 3rd Street.

Beer fest eyes new site, date

Ocean City, who’s support we’ve continued to receive over the years.”

Attendees this year can expect the opportunity to enjoy unlimited samples of local and regional craft beers as well as other alternatives such as seltzers, hard tea, mead, canned cocktails, and even non-alcoholic options.

The festival will also feature live

music, food trucks, and retail vendors. Proceeds go to benefit the OCDC, a non-profit organization with the mission to revitalize downtown Ocean City.

General Admission and VIP options are available for purchase at the events website (www.ShoreCraftBeerFest.ocm/octoberfest ).