How did the year go by so fast! Don’t worry though because there are still plenty of things you need to check off your bucket list to end 2026. Check it out below!

Winterfest & Holiday Magic

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Winterfest
  1. Walk Through or Take a Pedicab Ride Through Winterfest of Lights: Experience millions of sparkling lights displays at Northside Park.
  2. Book an Enchanted Evening Carriage Ride: Take a private horse-drawn carriage through the Winterfest of Lights.
  3. Warm Up on Fire & Ice Nights: Enjoy bonfires, ice sculptures, and cozy fire pits at Winterfest.
  4. Take Your Dog to Pet-Friendly Wednesdays: Bring your pup along for a stroll through the illuminated park paths.
  5. Search for Hidden Coca-Cola Bottles: Join the seasonal treasure hunt scattered throughout Winterfest.
  6. Visit the Caine Woods Christmas Houses: Drive or walk through the Caine Woods neighborhood to admire over-the-top residential light displays.
  7. Enjoy NYE Fireworks at Northside Park or Downtown: Ring in the new year with a midnight fireworks show over the beach or bay. As a bonus, there will also be a firework show during the day (which would make this list 27 things before 2027!)

Festive Community Events & Holiday Shopping

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Christmas Parade
  1. Watch the Ocean City Christmas Parade: Catch decorated floats, bands, and performers cruising down Coastal Highway.
  2. Attend the Character Breakfast: Bring the family for a festive morning meal with holiday characters at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center.
  3. Go to the Holiday Shopper’s Fair: Browse artisan goods and handmade gifts at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center from November 27-29.
  4. Christmas Shop in Historic Downtown Berlin: Stroll decorated, Victorian-era streets lined with independent boutiques and antique shops.

Cozy Indoor Amusements & Games

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Alley Oops
  1. Ice Skate at the Carousel Hotel: Skate on the indoor ice rink surrounded by holiday decorations.
  2. Go Bowling and Play Arcade Games at Alley Oops: Head inside for interactive gaming, bowling, and yummy food.
  3. Try an Escape Room: Solve puzzles with your friends or family to escape the winter chill at Trapped Escape Rooms.
  4. Watch a Sports Game at a Local Bar: Grab a seat to catch winter football or basketball games at The Original Greene Turtle, Pit n Pub, Coin’s, and Buxy’s. 
  5. Test Your Luck at Ocean Downs Casino: Head just across the bridge for indoor table games and slot machines.
  6. Play Mini Golf: Head under the sea or to the safari for a fun round of indoor miniature golf with your friends and family or bundle up to play outside at Saint Nick’s.

Seasonal Eats, Sweets, & Warm Sips

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94th Liquid Assets
  1. Try a Seasonal Coffee Flavor: Fuel your morning with a warm (or iced if you are like me) cup of coffee at Bai-Tee Bakery.
  2. Enjoy a Seasonal Holiday Dessert: Indulge in winter-exclusive pastries, pies, or warm sweets at Liquid Assets.
  3. Sip a Warm Cocktail at a Bar: Unwind with a hot toddy, spiked cider, or Irish coffee at Dry 85 OC.
  4. Enjoy Off-Season Restaurant Specials: Take advantage of winter menus, lower prices, and no wait times at year-round eateries. Check out our deals page! 

Arts, Culture & Excursions

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museum
  1. Explore Ocean City’s Museums & History: Discover local maritime history and storm lore at spots like the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum.
  2. Explore Local Art and Classes at the Art League of Ocean City: View regional winter gallery exhibits or take a hands-on art/pottery workshop.
  3. Go Shelling After a Winter Storm: Hunt along the beach for rare shells and sea glass washed ashore by rough winter tides.
  4. Pamper Yourself with a Winter Spa Day: Unwind with a heated massage or facial at Creative Day Spa.
  5. Stroll Snow Hill’s Historic Downtown: Take an off-island trip southwest to explore historic architecture, the Julia A. Purnell Museum, and quaint shops.

Here’s to finishing strong, trying something entirely unexpected, and checking off those final goals before 2026 is over and the new year begins!