There was no shortage of star-spangled excitement in Ocean City last week as the community marked America’s 249th birthday in style. The annual South Ocean City Bike Parade kicked off a full day of festivities, with hundreds of decorated bicycles rolling down Central Avenue, led by the Ocean City Police and Fire Departments.
Miss Ocean City Taylor Mulford, Junior Miss Ocean City Sarah Smith, and Little Miss Ocean City Teagan Vivarelli greeted paradegoers, along with this year’s Miss Night in Venice contestants. Singer Keith Hickman added a patriotic flair with live musical performances. Following the parade, crowds gathered at the 52nd Street Playground for hot dogs, snacks, and an awards ceremony, with Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian in attendance.
Earlier that morning, local neighbors came together for the annual “4th on 42nd” block party, which began with a flag-raising ceremony led by Marine veteran and Ocean City resident Jack Johnson. John Foley performed a heartfelt rendition of the national anthem on saxophone to an appreciative crowd near the beach.
As the day continued, families enjoyed a classic Fourth of July celebration with cornhole tournaments, volleyball, and sandcastle building. More than 250 residents gathered to share a community meal featuring hamburgers, hot dogs, pulled pork, chicken, and a variety of desserts. Acoustic musician Jake Blumberg provided the perfect soundtrack for a festive and memorable afternoon by the shore.
Photos by Steffen Klenk
