Ocean City’s Top 10 Upcoming Events

August 4–8, 2025
Harbour Island (14th St. & the Bay)

Now in its 52nd year, the White Marlin Open is the world’s largest billfish tournament and a legendary Ocean City tradition. Thousands gather to watch the weigh-ins at Harbour Island and eagerly wait for the biggest fish. Enjoy drinks at the Reel Inn, or cheer on the anglers during Marlin Fest down at the Inlet. Pro tip: Head to the Inlet at 4:00 AM to watch the boats depart for the tournament—it’s a local favorite and electric experience.

August 13–17, 2025
Various Locations

Observe Plein Air 2025, hosted by the Art League of Ocean City, where fifty professional artists set up across Ocean City to paint iconic vistas in real time. From the boardwalk to the bay and beyond, you’ll see artists capturing the unique beauty of the coast in this live, open-air painting competition.

August 21–24, 2025
Boardwalk & Beach

Say farewell to summer with a multi-night spectacle:

• Balloon Glow: Eight hot air balloons—including whimsical special shapes—will light up the Boardwalk.
• Giant Kites: Ten massive monster kites will fill the sky from 4–10 PM each evening.
• Laser Show: A one-hour laser display starts nightly at 9 PM, lighting the sky and reflecting off the balloons for a high-energy experience.

Weather may impact scheduling—follow Ocean City’s social media for updates.

September 5, 2025
Ocean City Performing Arts Center

Emmy Award-winning actor Richard Thomas (The Waltons, Ozark) brings Mark Twain’s wit and wisdom to life in Mark Twain Tonight!. Originally performed by Hal Holbrook, this one-man show is the only authorized production of its kind and delivers a brilliant blend of satire and storytelling.

September 6, 2025
Northside Park

Celebrate Maryland’s culinary heritage with steamed crabs, fresh local seafood, cooking demos, beer, wine, and live music at the inaugural Ocean City Seafood Festival. Family-friendly and full of flavor—kids 16 and under get in free. Get your tickets now!

Oceans Calling: September 26–28
Country Calling: October 3–5
Ocean City Inlet

Back-to-back festival weekends transform the Downtown Boardwalk and is packed with music and energy:

• Oceans Calling: Features Green Day, Fall Out Boy, Weezer, Noah Kahan, and more.
• Country Calling: Highlights include Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, Luke Combs, and Brooks & Dunn.

Great food, big stages, and the Ocean City boardwalk make both festivals standouts on the calendar.

October 23–26, 2025
Inlet & South End of the Boardwalk

Sunfest blends fall fun and beach vibes with:

• Handmade arts and crafts
• Live music
• Craft beer, hayrides, and kids' activities
• The Halloween Beach Maze, Howl-O-Ween Pet Parade, and Trunk or Treat
• A live performance by Bachman-Turner Overdrive at the Ocean City Performing Arts Center to close out the weekend

Set under the big-top tents, Sunfest attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year for four days of festive coastal fun.

November 1, 2025
Ocean City Performing Arts Center

This tribute band—personally endorsed by Mick Fleetwood—recreates the magic of Fleetwood Mac with unmatched authenticity. Described as “extraordinary” and “emotive,” Rumours of Fleetwood Mac is a must-see show for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

November 22, 2025
Roland E. Powell Convention Center

A new event celebrating the music and culture of the 70s, 90s, and 2000s with live performances and interactive fun.

Concert Highlights:

• Forever Young Tour: Vanilla Ice, Treach of Naughty by Nature, Rob Base, Color Me Badd, O-Town, Ryan Cabrera, LFO, Young MC.
• 70's Soul Jam: The Spinners, The Legendary Blue Notes, William Hart’s Delfonics.
   

Experiences Include:

• Roller skating rink and silent disco with DJ Wax
• Interactive activities and brand pop-ups
• Local food and drinks with something for every taste
   

Rising Tides is more than music—it’s a full-day festival experience.

November 20 – December 31, 2025
Northside Park | 5:30–9:30 PM
Open Wednesday–Sunday through Dec 21, daily Dec 22–31

Winterfest of Lights is an Ocean City tradition. Step into the glowing winter wonderland with family and friends for an epic holiday experience. This walk-through display spans 58 acres of holiday cheer, with twinkling lights, seasonal treats, and plenty of photo ops. Bigger and brighter than ever before.