You already know that vacations can break the bank. Luckily, the Town of Ocean City knows this too, and that’s why, in addition to the miles of free beach and boardwalk that are perfect for a summertime stroll, the city also offers a variety of free, fun and family-friendly activities throughout the season. It is possible to have a memorable trip without emptying your wallet – here are just 10 of the top free events, some hugely popular and others lesser-known, to take advantage of during your summer vacation.
And if you need any more ideas for free and fun things to do, well… we’ve got 100.
The Italian Air Force Frecce Tricolori are visiting the USA for the first time in over 30 years. Their performance will commemorate the 500th anniversary of Giovanni da Verrazzanoโs expedition to America in 1524. Also known as the โTricolour Arrowsโ in English, they are officially designated as the 313ยฐ Gruppo Addestramento Acrobatico, Pattuglia Acrobatica Nazionale. The Frecce Tricolori aerobatic team comprises of ten aircraft, holding the distinction of being the worldโs largest acrobatic patrol. Their 30-minute display will showcase their awe-inspiring skills, bringing a touch of Italian flair to the skies over Ocean City.
Throughout the week, weather permitting, the whole family is welcome to catch a flick by the ocean, Monday and Friday evenings on 27th street and and Wednesday evenings on 118th behind the Carousel Hotel. All you need is a beach blanket and maybe some popcorn to enjoy a movie three nights out of the week, all summer long.
3Ocean City Beach Dance Party
Every Monday in July and August from 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm at the Caroline Street Stage. Beach entertainment hosted by local DJs.
4Monday Night Fireworks
Right after the Dance Party, the Town of Ocean City will light up the night with a free fireworks display. Watch from the beach or boardwalk near the Caroline Street stage.
Firetrucks and floats will be parading along Coastal Highway at the annual Fireman’s Parade, and all families and future firefighters are welcome to join the crowd. The parade is part of Fireman’s Week, which begins the third weekend in June and runs through the following week.
6St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Free fun for everybody is the idea at the annual Ocean City St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Find your seat or just stand along Coastal Highway where the Delmarva Irish American Club puts on their annual event. Wear green or you will feel left out!
Go to our St. Patrick’s Day page for more suggestions of fun things to do around this traditional early start to the season in Ocean City, Maryland!
7ESA Summer Surf Series
Family Olympics are great, but ever thought about competing in the real Olympic games? This series of surfing competitions provides an avenue for amateur surfers to compete internationally and maybe even worldwide. The Eastern Surfing Association’s Regional Championships are held in Ocean City. In 2024, they were held in May. Come to the beach to watch the surfing!
Just keep checking the events page for updates and more information.
84th of July Concert and Fireworks
Whether you prefer to see the fireworks in Ocean City, MD at Northside Park or at N. Division Street just off the Boardwalk, both locations will feature a live band prior to the 9:30 fireworks display. You knew this would make the list of the best free things to do in Ocean City, MD because it’s an Ocean City tradition.
Every Thursday night from July to August, you can watch the sun set over the Isle of Wight Bay while listening to live music – just bring a chair and maybe a few bucks for a cold beer.
Head up to Northside Park to enjoy a free summer concert series, and bring a few bucks for ice cream, too! This family-friendly event hosts bands that play almost any genre from country to rock to tribute bands to oldies, and happens every Sunday night in the summer from 7 to 9 p.m.
Details and a full listing of the free events that Ocean City offers can be found here.
Nice updates on FUN FREE TTD!
It might be time to update your
photo…to Spring/Summer!
You need to correct the website for concerts on the beach…the write up states the concerts are on Wednesday but the dates a Thursday…we got all the way down there wednesday and found we were a day early..kinda spoiled the evening.