The calendar turns to March on Saturday, and Ocean City is gearing up for a full schedule of spring special events.
The fun starts with the fourth annual event on March 8 and March 9. Ocean City businesses will gather under one roof for a two-day shopping extravaganza that will offer an early sample of summer with discounts and specials on everybody’s favorite local merchandise, brands and attractions.
This year, the event moves to the Ocean City Civic Center, just off the Boardwalk between Fifth Street and Sixth Street, with plenty of free and convenient parking adjacent to the building (access from Fifth Street).
In addition to more than 40 vendors from Ocean City’s Boardwalk and Downtown districts, Market Madness will feature a live DJ, hourly giveaways, food trucks and more. Hours for the event are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days.
The spring calendar continues with Girls Weekend from April 4 to April 6, and the OC Con Comic Book and Memorabilia Show on April 5. The madcap Doo Dah Parade falls on April 12 this year and will feature the usual brigade of basset hounds. For more information and to register, visit ocnj.us/doodahparade.
The spring season continues with the annual Easter events. The Great Egg Hunts on April 12 and April 19 will invite children to stop by participating boardwalk stores in their search for eggs and treats. The Easter Dueling Pianos Show and visits with the Easter Bunny will be on Sunday, April 20, outside the Music Pier.
The Sports Memorabilia Show is a two-day event on April 26 and 27 at the Music Pier. Stay posted for announcements about this year’s special guests.
Martin Z. Mollusk seeks his shadow on May 2, and we’re betting that he’ll bring us another early summer
The Spring Block Party will be one of the highlights of the spring, and a mile of downtown Asbury Avenue will be lined with vendors, food and entertainment on Saturday, May 3.
The Spring Cruisin’ the Boards Car Show is set for May 10 and the OCNJ Triathlon/Duathlon for May 18.
Memorial Day Weekend will begin with the Unlocking of the Ocean and Business Persons Plunge on May 23 and continue with the Memorial Beach Challenge for 31 Heroes on May 24 and with the annual Memorial Day Ceremony on May 26.
