Can I buy anything at Winterfest?

Yes, you can get a cup of hot chocolate, get a picture with Santa Claus, buy arts, crafts and unique gifts.

What is a Motor Event?

A Motor Event is a term that is used in Ocean City to describe an event or gathering that brings thousands of vehicles to our resort town. A Motor Event can be authorized in partnership with the Town of Ocean City or can be unauthorized.

Where can spectators park for Cruisin'?

There are some spots around town, but we would recommend that you park your car at your hotel and use the bus to get around. You can also park your car at the West Ocean City Park and Ride and catch the bus into Ocean City. The event promoter has more information on their site .

How can I watch the weigh-ins?

The weigh-ins are free and open to the public. They take place at Harbour Island at 14th Street and the Bay in Ocean City each day of the tournament, typically from 4:00 PM to 9:15 PM. You can also watch the weigh-ins on the live screen at Marlin Fest in the inlet parking lot.

Can I leave and re-enter the Country Calling Festival Grounds at any Time?

Festival patrons can leave and re-enter as often as they would like until 7pm (local time). Patrons will scan their wristband and pass through security each time they re-enter the site.

Is Winterfest of Lights subject to closure due to inclement weather?

Yes, the Winterfest of Lights is subject to closure for inclement weather. Visitors are advised to check for updates or call 410-289-2800 for more information.

Where does the Special Event Zone apply?

The Special Event Zone applies to all of the roads within the corporate limit of the Town of Ocean City. The town limits begin midway on the Route 50 and Route 90 bridges and extend from the inlet to the Delaware State Line. This year, the Special Event Zone is being extended to include all roads in Worcester County. the expectation that they will follow our local laws and ordinances. There is no simple solution to the challenges faced during various Motor Events, but the Town of Ocean City is working hard to find solutions that positively impact everyone.

Where can I get more information on Cruisin' Ocean City?

First, check out the OceanCity.com Cruisin' Guide . You can also go to the organizer's site.

Can I participate in the tournament as an angler?

Yes, but there's a registration fee and limited space. Registration details are usually available on the White Marlin Open's official website.

Will any new ordinances be passed by the Town of Ocean City that will affect the Motor Vehicle Events?

Along with the Special Event Zone legislation, which was passed in 2018 by the State of Maryland, legislation passed in early 2020 will allow the Town of Ocean City to continue addressing lawlessness and unruly behavior with stricter fines and jail sentences for the most serious violations. To view the Special Event Zone Bill, visit: oceancitymd.gov/specialeventzone

What are the special attractions at Winterfest of Lights?

Special attractions include the 50-foot Christmas tree, Santa Claus's reindeer, the Field of Lights, 12 Drummers Drumming, and the Winterfest Ring selfie spot. These displays contribute to a magical and festive atmosphere.

Do businesses realize they’re going to lose a lot of money when the rallies go away?

While some businesses do benefit financially from the Pop-up Rallies, others do not. Some of the businesses that have benefited financially from the Pop-up Rally event still believe that overall the event is not a good fit for our community. Regardless, the Town is focused on the non-monetary concerns our community has expressed. The Town of Ocean City has been working closely with the Chamber of Commerce and the Hotel Motel Restaurant Association to prioritize keeping our community safe.

What is the schedule of events for Cruisin' Ocean City 2024?

You can find the complete schedule of events for Cruisin' 2024 on the organizer's site.

What is the White Marlin Open?

It's the world's largest and richest billfish tournament. Anglers from around the globe compete to catch white marlin, blue marlin, tuna, wahoo, and dolphin fish (mahi-mahi).

Isn’t it true that the town makes plenty of money from the amount of traffic tickets issued during these events?

The Town of Ocean City and the Ocean City Police Department do not make any money from the traffic citations issued. In the state of Maryland, the money from paid District Court traffic citations goes to the Maryland General Fund.

Are there any special events during Winterfest, such as parades or themed activities?

Yes, there are. Shore Craft Beer is hosting a "Let's Get Lit" Fest on December 7th with hotel packages at the Cambria and wristbands for all ticket-holders that get's them discounts at bars and restaurants around town all weekend. Of course, the Ocean City Christmas Parade is a fun holiday event scheduled for December 7.

If the Pop-up Rally Event is not a Town of Ocean City event, how can the Town of Ocean City implement the Special Event Zone?

In April 2018, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan signed the “Special Event Zone” bill into law, allowing authorities in Worcester County to designate Special Event Zones during large events, particularly motor events. The legislation allows officials to lower speed limits in the Special Event Zone. In addition, legislation signed in 2020 allowed for increased penalties for specific motor vehicle violations. Similar to a Construction Zone, violators will face increased fines, or in some cases arrest, if violations occur in a Special Event Zone. Special Event Zones are in place during motor events in Ocean City due to the high volume of motor vehicles and pedestrians on/near the roadways. The zone can be implemented for authorized and unauthorized events to ensure the safety of those in our town.

If I am not participating, but I want to attend Cruisin', can I buy tickets?

Tickets may be purchased at the Inlet (809 South Atlantic Ave.) or the Convention Center (4001 Coastal Highway). You can purchase a one day ticket or a four day event pass. Tickets are good at the Inlet and at the Convention Center, both inside and outside. Discounted four day passes can also be purchased in advance, prior to April 15th online at www.cruisinoceancity.com or over the phone, 410-798-6304.

The prize money varies depending on the number of boats entered and the categories won. The purse can reach millions of dollars.

When is Winterfest in Ocean City?

Winterfest of Lights runs from mid-November to New Year's Eve. Take a look at our Winterfest page for the complete dates and information.

Can I park my trailer anywhere in Ocean City?

Trailers and oversized vehicles may not be parked on Baltimore Avenue at any time. Parking a trailer or oversized vehicle on any street or paved public lot without a permit is prohibited between May 1 and October 31. Permits are available to registered participants of Cruisin’ Ocean City, OC BikeFest, and Endless Summer Cruisin’ for a fee of $50 from the event organizer. There are three options for parking your trailer in town without a permit.

When is the Winterfest of Lights taking place?

The Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City is scheduled to run from November 21 to December 31, 2024. It will be open from Wednesday to Sunday, starting at 5:30 p.m. and closing at 9:30 p.m. The Winterfest of Lights is not open on Mondays and Tuesday except Christmas Day. It will be open daily on Christmas Day through New Year's Eve.

Is there a map available for Winterfest of Lights?

This map will help you navigate the 58-acre Northside Park and explore the various attractions. [caption id="attachment_158420" align="alignnone" width="648"] Winterfest map by the Town of Ocean City: https://www.ococean.com/winterfest/[/caption]

Are there any other events during the White Marlin Open?

Yes, there are often associated events like the Marlin Fest at the Inlet, which features vendors, live music, and food.

When is Sunfest in Ocean City?

Sunfest takes place in late September. Check out our Sunfest page for updated dates and information.

What are my 3 parking options in Ocean City for my trailer?

There are three options for parking your trailer in town without a permit. 1. The West Ocean City Park & Ride has limited free trailer parking available starting at noon on the Friday prior to the Cruisin’ OC, OC BikeFest and Endless Summer Cruisin’ events through noon on the Monday immediately following each event. However, no overnight parking is allowed – Vehicles and trailers will be towed if parked between 3:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. 2. The 100th Street gravel lot also has limited trailer parking for a daily fee that can be paid on site. 3. In addition, you may make arrangements with a private property owner to park on their lot. You may not park on any public street. nn

What are the key features of the Winterfest of Lights?

The Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City, MD, features various attractions such as the 50-foot Christmas tree, Santa Claus's reindeer, the Field of Lights, 12 Drummers Drumming, and the Winterfest Ring selfie spot.

Motor events can cause tremendous challenges for residents. How can Ocean City stop motor event enthusiasts from coming to the town?

Ocean City cannot stop people from coming to visit our community; however, we can deter violations through our Special Event Zone. In addition to Special Event Zone legislation, the Town of Ocean City and the Ocean City Police Department are working closely with the State of Maryland, our partners in the business community and participants of the Pop-up Rally event to develop a plan for peace during these events. Our resort community welcomes everyone with

How much is admission to Winterfest of Lights?

Admission to Winterfest of Lights is $6 for guests aged 12 and older. Children aged 11 and younger can enter for free.

Where can I find more information about the tournament?

OceanCity.com will have lots of great content on the tournament throughout the week. In addition, the official website (whitemarlinopen.com) is the best source for up-to-date information.

What are some free things to do in Ocean City?

The Town of Ocean City prides itself on hosting free weekly events throughout the summer to help you enjoy your vacation without blowing your budget. Find a full list here . The Beach is free Walk & Explore the boardwalk View Free Events

So, is the Town of Ocean City anti-car enthusiast?

Not at all. The Town welcomes car enthusiasts 365 days a year, as long as they obey all local and state laws. However, the Town does not welcome the huge, unruly crowds associated with the Pop-up Rally and the disorderly conduct that has resulted from this gathering.

How can I purchase tickets for the Winterfest of Lights?

Tickets for the Winterfest of Lights can be purchased on the Town's commerce site. Admission is $6 for guests aged 12 and older, and children aged 11 and younger can enter for free.

What can I expect during a Motor Event Weekend?

Each Motor Event in Ocean City is different. For residents, the biggest impact on our community comes during the Pop-Up Rally event and Spring Cruisin’. Although the promoters of Spring Cruisin’ have worked very hard to make positive changes to the event, there is still significant traffic congestion. During the Pop-Up Rally, the town recommends staying off the road for the weekend, as residents are safer at home.

When does the Boardwalk Tram run?

**The Boardwalk tram is suspended indefinitely** The Boardwalk Tram costs $5.00 per person, per boarding, per one way ride. Although the tram runs every day throughout the summer, it may not maintain its normal schedule during during inclement weather due to safety precautions. For further questions please contact Transportation at 410-723-1606. Summer Boardwalk Tram Hours: May 24 – September 2 2024, 12pm -Midnight/Daily Special Events Boardwalk Tram Hours: Springfest: May 2-5 2024, OC Cruisin’ Weekend: May 16-19, Post Labor Day: September 3-8, Bikefest: September 11-15, Sunfest: Thursday, October 24-27

Is there parking available near the weigh-in location?

Parking can be limited, especially during peak weigh-in times. Consider alternative transportation options like the Ocean City bus system. There is parking at the Ocean City Convention Center and the Town of Ocean City frequently runs shuttles from there to Harbour Island.

Where is the Winterfest of Lights located?

The Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City, Maryland is set up in Northside Park. The address for your navigation system is: 200 125th St, Ocean City, MD 21842 Parking is available inside the park and on the side streets around the park. You can also take the Ocean City bus from your hotel. These buses are running every half hour and the ride all day cost is $4. You can see the real-time location of buses here: https://oct.transloc.com/

How many Motor Events do you have in Ocean City?

Ocean City typically hosts six authorized Motor Events each year, taking place primarily in the Spring and Fall. These events include Cruisin, the OC Car & Truck Show, OC Bikefest, Jeep Week, Corvette Weekend, and Endless Summer Cruisin. In addition, we have one unauthorized Motor Event, which is commonly referred to by participants as H2Oi. The Town of Ocean City, however, refers to this unauthorized event as a Pop-up Rally event.

Coming to Ocean City with a Modified Vehicle?

If you have concerns regarding your vehicle’s modifications, the Ocean City Police Department’s Traffic Safety Unit has provided two resources that you can check regarding the state of Maryland’s regulations. The first resource is COMAR, and you can visit their website at http://www.dsd.state.md.us/COMAR/title_search/Title_List.aspx. Title 11 is where the majority of the regulations for vehicles can be located. In addition to reviewing COMAR, please review the most current Maryland Transportation Articles/Code 22 at https://casetext.com/statute/code-of- maryland/transportation/title-22-vehicle-laws-equipment-of-vehicles. Both of these resources will cover the laws that apply to vehicles within the state of Maryland.

What happens to the fish that are caught at the White Marlin Open?

The White Marlin Open has several rules designed to minimize the number of fish that are actually killed and brought to the scales. Then, the tournament encourages the anglers to donate their catches to charities in the Ocean City area who help feed those in need. Catch n Carry processes and flash freezes the fish before distributing the meat to 3 local charities including the Maryland Food Bank. For more information, you can read this article: https://www.oceancity.com/the-fate-of-fish-at-the-white-marlin-open-in-ocean-city-a-conservation-success-story/

What should I bring to the weigh-ins?

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. It can get hot and sunny on the docks. Also, bring your camera or phone to capture the action. You can bring water - but you may also be able to buy water from entrepreneurial vendors. As usual, bring money if you want to buy an iconic White Marlin Open t-shirt or other cool stuff from vendors.

Is there a tram for Winterfest of Lights?

This year, 2024, there will be no tram at Winterfest of Lights.

What is the difference between an authorized Motor Event and the Pop-up Rally event?

The Town of Ocean City works closely with event promoters of authorized Motor Events to assure our residents, visitors and event participants are equally accommodated. Most of the authorized events offer contests, parades and concerts. These additional activities create a family-friendly atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. The Pop-up Rally event, however, has no formal schedule, which results in an enormous amount of traffic and large gatherings in parking lots and sidewalks. In addition, the Pop-up Rally does not have a designated event promoter for the Town of Ocean City to communicate with like the authorized Motor Events do.

What is Cruisin' Ocean City?

Cruisin' Ocean City is a celebration of cars - over 3000 hot rods, customs, classics and trucks - in it's 32nd year. It includes car shows dotted around Ocean City and the surrounding area as well as entertainment, boardwalk parades, special guests, featured cars, live music, celebrities and more.

The Pop-up Rally brings a lot of revenue to the city and its businesses. Does the City Council realize how much money it stands to lose if the unauthorized event stops?

Yes, the City Council is aware of the economic impact of the Pop-up Rally event. The Pop-up Rally also costs our community more than just money. The Town also pays a substantial cost in staff time and resources to cope with the rally. But perhaps the biggest cost of all is the effect the rally has on the quality of life for our residents and visitors. Its important for car enthusiasts and Pop-Up Rally participants to know that Ocean City welcomes everyone to our resort community, with the expectation that they follow our laws and ordinances in order to keep everyone safe.

What is Allowed and Not Allowed inside the Country Calling Festival Grounds?

What items are allowed & prohibited at Country Calling? (Info from the official Country Calling site ) Guests and their belongings are subject to search upon entry or re-entry. You can help keep the lines moving quickly by leaving large bags at home. The following items are ALLOWED : CLEAR bags made up of clear plastic, vinyl, or pvc, and no larger than 12" x 6" x 12". Small clutch purses and fanny packs with no more than 1 pocket. Clutch purses no larger than 6" x 9" (See Full Bag Policy Below) Baby Strollers Frisbees Binoculars Blankets, Sheets, Towels Cameras (basic point and shoot consumer-grade cameras) without detachable lenses and other accessories (monopods, selfie sticks, tripods, GoPro mounts, and other attachments are not allowed) Empty reusable water bottles and hydration packs (See full bag policy), and plastic or aluminum water bottles Sunscreen in non-aerosol containers is allowed in the size of 3.4 ounces or less Personal sized hand sanitizer Factory sealed Naloxone /Narcan kit Prescription Medicine Requirements: Anyone needing prescription medicine at the festival must present the pharmacy-labeled container which states the prescription, dosage, and patient name to our medical staff at each entrance gate. Patrons are only allowed a sufficient supply of the prescribed medication for that day. Medicines needing to be inhaled or smoked are prohibited unless in a prescribed inhaler. Over the counter medications are allowed in a sufficient supply for the day. Bottle contents will be verified by medical personnel at the entry gates. The following items are PROHIBITED : Any bags that are NOT CLEAR bags made up of clear plastic, vinyl, or pvc, and are larger than 12" x 6" x 12". Any Small clutch purses and fanny packs with more than 1 pocket. Clutch purses that are larger than 6" x 9" (See Full Bag Policy Below) Aerosol containers, including sunscreen and personal beauty products. NOTE: Sunscreen in non-aerosol containers is allowed in the size of 3.4 ounces or less Coolers of any kind. (Exceptions may be made for medical use) Framed backpacks, multiple pocket back packs and any pack that is not aligned with the allowed backpacks above. (See Full Bag Policy Below) Any and all professional audio recording equipment Professional cameras and professional recording (photo, video, audio) equipment (NO large professional detachable zoom lenses, stands, monopods, tripods, attachment sticks (selfie sticks) or other commercial equipment. Any and all professional video equipment. No video recording will be allowed Drones or any other remote flying device Hammocks Glass containers of any kind Illegal and Illicit substances of any kind Outside food or beverage (including alcohol) of any kind Umbrellas Pets (except service animals) Selfie sticks Skateboards, scooters, bicycles, wagons, carts or any personal motorized vehicles Tents, canopies, or shade structures of any kind Unauthorized/unlicensed vendors are not allowed. No unauthorized solicitation and materials including handbills, flyers, stickers, beach balls, give-aways, samples, etc. Weapons or explosives of any kind Fireworks Large chains or spiked jewelry Bicycles inside festival grounds (free parking is available near festival entrance) Carts of any kind (including Red Wagons) Chairs of any kind Smoking of any kind, including vaping FULL BAG POLICY: ALL bags will be searched before entry. Small clutch purses and fanny packs that are 6" x 9" or smaller do not need to be clear, but can have no more than one pocket. All other bags larger than 6" x 9" must be smaller than 12" x 6" x 12" and clear. Hydration packs are allowed and do not need to be clear, but must be emptied of all liquid and have no more than two pockets in addition to the one holding the water reservoir. * SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Are there accommodations available in Ocean City during the tournament?

Yes, but book well in advance, as hotels and rentals tend to fill up quickly during the White Marlin Open. You can find Ocean City hotels here. If you can't find a hotel in Ocean City, you might try <a href="https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en-us.html?ss=SAlisbury%2C+MD&ssne=Ocean+City&ssne_untouched=Ocean+City&efdco=1&label=link&aid=390739&lang=en-us&sb=1&src_elem=sb&src=city&dest_id=379518&dest_type=hotel&ac_position=0&ac_click_type=b&ac_langcode=en&ac_suggestion_list_length=2&search_selected=true&search_pageview_id=ad047d99727f0010&ac_meta=GhBhZDA0N2Q5OTcyN2YwMDEwIAAoATICZW46DVNBbGlzYnVyeSwgTURAAEoAUAA%3D&group_adults=2&no_rooms=1&group_children=0&sb_travel_purpose=leisure&sb_lp=1">Salisbury.

Are pets allowed at Winterfest of Lights?

Yes, pets are welcome on Wednesday evenings at Winterfest of Lights.

When does the Pop-up Rally event take place?

Traditionally, the Pop-up Rally event takes place the last week of September. In 2021, we expect it to occur on September 24-26.

Springfest 2024: Your Questions Answered

News Ocean City Events Springfest

April 1, 2024

By Ann

Springfest 2024 will be here before we know it. OceanCity.com was there to film the opening of 2023 Springfest as festival goers streamed into the festival grounds at the Ocean City inlet parking lot.

Springfest 2024 – May 2nd – 5th.

We have put together a list of questions and answers that may help you navigate Springfest this year. If you have any other questions, please contact us by making a comment on this post or go to our Facebook page and leave us a message with your questions. We will try to answer them for you.

Springfest

Does the Ocean City Beach Bus run from the Park and Ride in West Ocean City during Springfest?

Yes. The bus is normally free from the Park and Ride in West Ocean City, but during the big festival weekends, the Town charges $4 to ride all day. The schedule is here.

Categories: Events, Springfest, Transportation

Ann https://www.oceancity.com

Ann has been with StateVentures since 1999. She moved from Annapolis to Berlin, MD to be closer to Ocean City. She splits her work week between the two locations to help clients and visitors get the best information and value out of our sites. She loves a camera and any excuse to use it. Her kids are both grown and off adventuring. Ann loves to travel with her kids and lives with her dog Marley when she's not in Virginia fishing.

Beach Heroes OC. Our Heroes!!

“Dunes at Sunrise” Captures the Essence of Ocean City in Winning Photo

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4 COMMENTS

Kelly Thomas May 6, 2024 At 7:48 pm

Hello, has Springfest 2025 been scheduled?
Thank you
Kelly

Reply
- Anne May 7, 2024 At 9:18 am
  
  We don’t have the 2025 dates for Springfest yet. Stay tuned!
  
  Reply
charlene swineford April 21, 2024 At 4:00 pm

Do you publish a list of ventors for Springfest 2024?

Reply
- Anne April 22, 2024 At 8:19 am
  
  Unfortunately we do not have a list of vendors for Springfest
  
  Reply

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About Us

THINGS TO DOHave A Great Time!

Places

Family Fun

On The Water

Trimper's Rides

Nick's Mini Golf & Ropes

SPECIAL OFFERS & DISCOUNTS

Grand Hotel

Hilton Oceanfront Suites

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Park Place Hotel

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RestaurantsWhere to Eat in Ocean City, MD

By Type

Cuisine

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Captain's Table

The Angler

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Springfest 2024: Your Questions Answered

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Does the Ocean City Beach Bus run from the Park and Ride in West Ocean City during Springfest?

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