Night in Venice Planning Committee Chairman Dave Winslow has announced the theme for the 2024 event: “Summertime Vibes: A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett.”
Ocean City’s 69th annual Night in Venice at 6:30 p.m. July 20 this year will honor Buffett and provide a chance to celebrate the music and carefree persona of the songwriter, who passed away in September after more than five decades of writing, recording and performing timeless classics.
Winslow, a retired executive and Fourth Ward representative on City Council, returns as chairman of the Night in Venice Committee. He served in the same role for many years beginning in the 1980s and continues for another year. The group also will include Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Michele Gillian, Ocean City Community Services Director Daniel Kelchner and Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian.
“A tribute to Jimmy Buffett is perfect for our summertime event,” Mayor Gillian said. “I’m excited to work with Dave and the committee to make this year’s event better than ever.”
Winslow also announced this year’s presenting sponsors: ACME and OCNJ Watersports.
Entries are currently being accepted from all those who want to participate in the annual bayfront celebration. The boat parade and decorated bayfront home contests provide a chance to be part of the highlight of the summer season in Ocean City. Thousands of spectators line the bayfront, and thousands more attend private parties at homes along the route from the Ocean City-Longport Bridge to Tennessee Avenue. The theme is always optional, and entries for boats and homes are currently being accepted online at www.ocnj.us/NIV or by calling 609-399-6111.
A spectacular fireworks display over the bayfront will return after the boat parade.