Save the Dates for All Your Favorites
Ocean City greeted the new year in style with spectacular First Night and First Day celebrations, and the city is planning a full calendar of special events for 2022.
It’s not too early to start planning for family fun in the new year, and attached is our tentative schedule for the year, including all of the biggest annual events.
The city’s Martin Luther King Jr. Ceremony will kick things off and bring the community together to honor Dr. King’s legacy on Monday, Jan. 17. The event will start at noon and move to the Ocean City Music Pier this year.
The spring season opens with Girls Weekend from April 1 to April 3, and the OC Con Comic Book and Memorabilia Show on April 2.
The madcap Doo Dah Parade falls on April 9 this year and will feature the usual brigade of basset hounds. The Mr. Mature America Pageant returns on that evening of April 9 and caps off a day dedicated to humor.
The Great Egg Hunts on April 9 and April 16 will follow the same new format implemented this year – with children invited to stop by participating boardwalk stores in their search for eggs and treats.
After two cancellations during the pandemic, the Spring Block Party returns on May 14. Because Mother’s Day falls on May 8 this year, the popular event is a week later than usual, which should make for great weather. The Fall Block Party is on for Oct. 8 with fireworks
scheduled for 9 p.m. that evening.
Night in Venice – Ocean City’s premier summer event – is set for Saturday, July 23. Look for announcements soon on this year’s theme.
The Baby Parade will return for the 112th time on Thursday, Aug. 11.
Fall events include the Ocean City Airport Festival and Parachute Pyrotechnic Show on Sept. 17 with the Boardwalk Aerobatic Air Show on Sept. 18.
If part of your New Year’s resolution is to get back in running shape, the OCNJ Half Marathon on Oct. 2 is a great race and a great goal.
After a successful debut in 2021, Dog Day on the Boardwalk and the Humane Society’s Howl-O-Ween Parade will return on Oct. 22.
Be sure to check back throughout the year for additions and updates to our event calendar.
For more information on any OCNJ Events, call 1-800-BEACH-NJ, (609) 399-6111 or visit www.oceancityvacation.com.
Download the official OCNJ Vacation App for your smart phone.
All dates/events are subject to change.
JANUARY 1st
First Day Shopping Extravaganza Welcome in the New Year by shopping for tremendous bargains in Downtown Ocean City, Asbury Avenue from 6th to 14th Street.
Horse & Carriage Rides noon to 3 p.m., 6th & Asbury Ave.
JANUARY 17th
MLK National Day of Service Volunteers are invited to join others nationwide to honor Dr. King’s contributions. In Ocean City, citizens are asked to participate in a citywide cleanup from 9 a.m. to noon. Sign-up and supply distribution will take place at the Howard S. Stainton Senior Center.
Martin Luther King Jr Ceremony and Soul Food Lunch Noon at the Music Pier. This event will bring the community together to remember Dr. King through words, song and dance. The event will include community resources and a soul food lunch.
APRIL 1st, 2nd, & 3rd – Girls Weekend It’s time to put yourself first! Girls Weekend Downtown on Asbury Avenue between 6th and 14th Street. Fashion show Kick-Off Event on Friday evening, shopping and dining specials all weekend, accommodation packages, wellness classes, and so much more!
APRIL 2nd – OC CON Super Hero Run- 1 Mile & Kids Super Hero Obstacle Dash – Pre-registration & Race Day Registration. 9 a.m. Start at Carey Stadium. For more information & registration ocnj.us/race-events contact: lrumer@ocnj.us or call 609-399-6111.
APRIL 2nd & 3rd – OC Con Comic Book & Memorabilia Show Save the Date! Join us for a fun filled weekend at the Music Pier. More details to follow at ocnjcon.com
APRIL 9th – Doo Dah Parade Welcome in the Spring season with this comedy parade complete with over 300 basset hounds. Noon on Asbury Ave. from 6th Street to 12th Street and then up to the Boardwalk ending at 6th & Boardwalk.
April 9th – The Great Egg Hunt 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. 6th to 14th street along the boardwalk, stop by participating stores, until supplies lasts. Rain date: April 10th.
APRIL 9th – Mr. Mature America Pageant Ocean City presents the Mr. Mature America Pageant for Men 55 years and older, first event of its kind in the United States. Contestants compete in talent, poise & interview categories.
APRIL 16th – The Great Egg Hunt 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. 6th to 14th street along the boardwalk, stop by participating stores, until supplies lasts. Rain date: April 17th.
APRIL 17th
Easter Sunrise Service A traditional non-denominational service by the sea. All are welcome. 6:30 a.m. at the Music Pier.
Dueling Pianos Show in front of the Music Pier. The Philly Keys will be performing their hit dueling pianos show starting at noon. Free fun for the entire family! The Philly Keys will take a break for our annual Easter Fashion Promenade.
Easter Fashion Stroll in front of the Music Pier. Come dressed in your Easter’s best for our Fashion Stroll and meet the Easter Bunny. Judging begins at 1 p.m. Prizes awarded for Best Dressed Children, Teen, Adults and Family.
APRIL 30th – Sports Memorabilia Show at the Music Pier. More details and ticketing info to follow.
MAY 6th
Martin Z. Mollusk Day Come and find out if summer is coming early, 11 a.m. at the 9th Street Beach.
Janice Ian The Farewell Tour The concert begins at 7 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.
MAY 7th – Modern Muscle Car Invasion Modern Muscle Cars will be displayed on the boardwalk between 5th-14th Streets, noon to 5 p.m. For more information visit modernmusclecarinvasion.com or email blinkerfluidproductions@gmail.com
MAY 7th & 8th – Boardwalk & Downtown Merchant Table Sales 6th Street – 14th Street on the boardwalk and Asbury Ave.
MAY 14th – Spring Block Party 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from 5th Street to 14th Street on Asbury Ave. Over 350 crafters, food vendors, music and more. For more information, call 1-800-BeachNJ
MAY 14th & 15th– Boardwalk & Downtown Merchant Table Sales 6th Street – 14th Street on the boardwalk and Asbury Ave.
MAY 15th – OCNJ Triathlon/Duathlon 1/4 mile Pool Swim, 2M Run/16M Bike/2M Run. Plus a kids course 1/8 mile swim, 1m run/8m bike/1m run. Pool Swim start 6 a.m.- 8 a.m. Run/Bike/Run starts 9 a.m.
MAY 21- American Heart Assoc. Heart Walk Registration begins at 9 a.m. at the Sports & Civic Center, walk begins at 10:30 a.m. For more information call 609-223-3731.
MAY 27th – Unlocking of the Ocean and Business Persons Plunge Participants dress in business suits, carry brief cases and march into the ocean to the strains of Pomp and Circumstance to welcome the new season. Noon, Moorlyn Terrace St. Beach.
MAY 28th – Memorial Beach Challenge for 31 Heroes The main obstacle course challenge is a soft sand adventure race followed by our kid’s fun run. Staging at 9th St. beach. For registration information visit memorialbeachchallenge.com or call 856-905-0583.
MAY 30th – Memorial Day Service 11 a.m. at the Ocean City Tabernacle
MAY 30th – National Moment of Remembrance established by Congress asks Americans, wherever they are at 3 p.m. on Memorial Day, to pause in an act of national unity for a duration of one minute. The moment of remembrance will take place on the Boardwalk
JUNE 2nd – Wonder’s Birthday Bash at Gillian’s Wonderland Pier 6th St. and the Boardwalk. Celebrate Wonder Bear’s Birthday from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Celebrating 93 years on the Ocean City Boardwalk with fireworks at 9 p.m.
JUNE 3rd, 4th & 5th – Ocean City Flower Show See beautiful commercial, amateur and children’s displays at the Music Pier. Show times are Friday 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
JUNE 15th – FARMERS MARKET –Tabernacle Grounds 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
JUNE 20th – Kenny Wayne Sheppard Band The concert begins at 7 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at Ticketmaster. Produced by BRE Presents
JUNE 22nd– FARMERS MARKET – Tabernacle Grounds 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
JUNE 25th – Antique Auto Show Over 300 vintage vehicles. Tabernacle grounds, 6th & Asbury Ave. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. boardwalk parade after 2 p.m. For more information visit jerseycape.aaca.com
JUNE 29th
FARMERS MARKET – Tabernacle Grounds 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
Wacky Wednesday– (Taffy Sculpting) Use your creativity to shape and sculpt Shriver’s salt water taffy into your very own unique masterpiece. Contest is free but open to the first 250 participants. Open to all ages. 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. at the Music Pier.
JULY Every Monday
Beach Exercise (Yoga) on 6th Street Beach Volleyball Courts. 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. Free! Bring a towel & a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information call (609) 398-6900.
JULY Every Tuesday
Funtastic Tuesdays– 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Asbury Ave. Entertainment, Face Painters, Balloon Sculptors.
Mummers Night – Strutting 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the boardwalk, 6th Street – 14th Street
Beach Walks – 59th St. & Central Ave. (Entrance to Corson’s Park) Tuesdays- 9 a.m., Wednesdays- 6:30 p.m.
JULY Every Wednesday
Beach Exercise (Pilates) on 6th Street Beach Volleyball Courts. 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. Free! Bring a towel & a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information call (609) 398-6900.
Beach Walks- 59th St. & Central Ave., (Entrance to Corson’s Park) Tuesdays 9 a.m., Wednesdays 6:30 p.m.
JULY Every Thursday
Market Days 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Asbury Avenue. Entertainment, face painters, balloon sculptors.
Family Nights Entertainment on the boardwalk 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. between 6th Street – 14th Street.
JULY Every Friday
Beach Exercise (Low Impact) on 6th Street Beach Volleyball Courts. 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. Free! Bring a towel & a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information call (609) 398-6900.
JULY 4th
Bike Parade Sponsored by the Gardens Civic Association Registration 9 a.m. at the Longport Bridge parking lot. Parade begins at 10 a.m.
Bike Parade Sponsored by the South OC Improvement Assoc. Registration 9 a.m. at 40th & Asbury Ave. Parade begins at 10 a.m.
Fourth of July Celebration Kite flying competition at 7 p.m. followed by entertainment on the beach next to the Music Pier. A spectacular boardwalk fireworks display tops off the evening at 9 p.m.
JULY 5th – Ocean City Theatre Company Presents: Madagascar The Musical- Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto your stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime. 10:30 a.m. at the Music Pier.
JULY 6th
FARMERS MARKET – Tabernacle Grounds 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
Wacky Wednesday – (Pie Eating Contest) Celebrate America with a good old-fashion apple and cherry pie eating contest. No hands allowed! Contest is free. Open to all ages. Limited to 150 participants. 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.at the Music Pier.
Freckle Contest Registration is free and begins at 5:30pm in front of the Music Pier. Contest starts at 6 p.m.
JULY 7th – Sand Sculpting Contest Open to kids, teens, adults and families! Registration is free and begins at 9 a.m. at the 6th St. Beach. Judging takes place by 11 a.m.
JULY 9th – 41st Annual T. John Carey Master’s Swim Registration 8 a.m., Race starts at 10 a.m. at the beach patrol station, 34th Street and the beach. The race will start at 10 a.m.
JULY 11th – Killer Queen The concert begins at 7 p.m. at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets available at Ticketmaster. Produced by BRE Presents.
JULY 12th – Ocean City Theatre Company Presents: Go Dog Go- P.D. Eastman’s classis children’s book comes to life on stage in an exploration of movement, color and space.10:30 a.m. at the Music Pier. 10:30am.
JULY 13th
FARMERS MARKET – Tabernacle Grounds 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
Wacky Wednesday – (French Fry Sculpting) Use your creativity to shape and sculpt french fries into your very own unique masterpiece. Contest is free but only open to the first 200 participants. Open to all ages. 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. at the Music Pier
JULY 19th – Ocean City Theatre Company Presents: Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed- The Rock Experience is a rock ‘n roll parable with a significant message for today’s audiences, based on the hit children’s book by Mo Willems. 10:30 a.m. at the Music Pier.
JULY 20th
FARMERS MARKET – Tabernacle Grounds 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
Wacky Wednesday – (Christmas in July) Celebrate the Christmas holiday season in July with a special craft and a visit from Santa while he is in town on vacation. Dress in red and green to participate in our wacky Christmas meets summer fashion show. Contest is free. Limited to 150 participants. Open to all ages. 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. at the Music Pier
JULY 21st – OCBP Women’s Lifeguard Invitational Races at 34th St. beach, 6:15 p.m. Women representing the 15 beach patrols on the South Jersey coast will be competing in this annual invitational race.
JULY 23rd – Night in Venice The City’s annual boat parade is one of the largest in the world. Starts at the Longport Bridge to Tennessee Ave. along the bay. Fireworks display to follow parade. Start time 6 p.m.
JULY 26th –Ocean City Theatre Company Presents: The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs- There are two sides to every story, and when the Big, Bad Wolf takes the stand in Piggsylvania’s Trial of the Century, he finally gets his say. Enter the jury box and decide the fate of Big ‘n’ Bad in this musical adaptation of the hit children’s book 10:30 a.m. at the Music Pier.
JULY 27th
FARMERS MARKET – Tabernacle Grounds 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Crafters in the street at 6th & Asbury Ave.
Wacky Wednesday – (Mystery Bag) Participants will receive a brown paper bag filled with random supplies. Your mission, create an object, sculpture or unique work of art using everything in the bag. Contest is free. Limited to 175 participants. Open to all ages. 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. at the Music Pier
AUGUST Every Monday
Beach Exercise (Yoga) on 6th Street Beach Volleyball Courts. 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. Free! Bring a towel & a friend. Hosted by the Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center. For more information call (609) 398-6900.
AUGUST Every Tuesday
Funtastic Tuesdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Asbury Ave. entertainment, face painters, balloon sculptors. Mummers Night Strutting 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the boardwalk, 6th Street – 14th
