KIRBY’S PUB – ‘Best sunblock at the beach…’
At least that’s how they term themselves!
It’s true though…as we quickly learned during our impromptu visit the other day. As we entered through the single door from stark sunshine into a dimly lit interior we were immediately taken to another place; another time. A time when the neighborhood tavern was just that – an integral part of the neighborhood; serving good measure drinks and offering ‘superior’ bar food. And, you notice a man at the bar (nice selections on tap!), eating while reading a paper; the one beside him watching TV – one of many, and then a couple of guys in for a table-side lunch having a rousing conversation – politically oriented no doubt! It’s what a ‘locals’ bar’ should be!
Kirby’s Pub has been around for ten years now – taking the place of the old Mug and Mallet. Sandwiched between Liquid Assets and Candy Kitchen in the 94th Street Center, bayside, off Coastal Highway with off-street parking, it boasts a prime, uptown location.
Again citing those ten years, no doubt one reason for Kirby’s success is the waitress 
named Lisa; the best waitress that we’ve ever had good luck to ever encounter! Immediately upon seating (perching) oneself either barside or at one of the tables aligned along the wall opposite, this waitress is greeting you – heartily, menus in hand and with a genuine smile. Then giving you enough time (but not too much) to decide, she’s back, still smiling, taking your order! The food takes a bit of time (but not too long) – it’s cooked to order!
And, oh the food – of course I had to try the Pub special (listed back of the menu in a blue box)…Kirby’s Seafood Club! Served in a wrap or layered between your choice of rye/wheat or white, the jumbo-lump crab cake and generous scoop of house made, jumbo shrimp salad, crispy bacon, choice of cheese, lettuce, FRESH tomato and mayo- SING!!! Fresh, spicy, just what you’ve been craving. It’s huge, and accompanied by Kirby’s fresh chips, weighs in as a ‘real meal’! In my opinion, at $12.00 it’s a bargain! My companion opted for the house-made, jumbo-shrimp salad on wheat. Again, a more than satisfying portion of ‘real tasty’.
Feeling more than full, we asked for our check and after leaving a nice tip for our excellent service, departed.
We will return again to this wonderful ‘locals’ bar’ very soon, noting the special homemade soups on the menu. And, if you find yourself visiting in Ocean City MD, looking for the real deal, we hope to see you there!
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SECOND SEASON 2010 – Ocean City area fun!
In spite of the calendar calling for an end to summertime, the fun continues in Ocean City Maryland. Fall brings the best – fishing and fewer crowds meaning the sand and surf are all yours! Exploring Assateague Island offers added excitement. Below are listed a few of our seasonal events and activities scheduled for YOUR enjoyment here at our resort. Please join us…
SEPTEMBER
Sept. 1 – Oct 31: Delmarva Needle Art Show & Competition, Julia Purnell Museum, Snow Hill, MD. Popular exhibit of regional needle art including quilts, embroidery & more. Admission. www.purnellmuseum.com
Sept. 3-5: Labor Day Weekend Art & Craft Festival, OC Convention Ctr. Tasteful mix of mediums including oil and watercolors, woodworking and furniture, stained glass, glass art, candles, pottery & more. ahastings@ocShows.info
Sept. 16-19: Delmarva Bike Week, Tens of thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts enjoys rides and activities throughout Delmarva Peninsula. Motorcycle related activities with displays, exhibits, entertainment, vendors, celebrities, manufacturers & more. www.delmarvabikeweek.com
Sept 17 – 19: Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show, OC Convention Ctr. Jewelry and gems, classic and contemporary designs for show and sale. Tote1523@treasuresoftheearth.net.
Sept. 23-24: Sandcastle Home Tour. Unique Ocean City area homes on display in this popular annual event. www.artleagueofoceancity.org
Sept. 23 -26: SUNFEST, Sunfest celebrates its 36th year as Ocean City’s biggest and best festival. Sunfest artisans will delight your eyes with their arts and crafts creation. Try the bold taste of the Eastern Shore with fabulous food and quench your thirst with a tropical smoothie. Enjoy live entertainment on two stages. Sunfest 2010 has something for everyone! www.oceancitymd.gov/Recreation_and_Parks/specialevents.html
Sept. 23 – 26: Sunfest Kite Festival. On the beach, 1st St. – 6th St. Bring the family & let your spirits soar! www.kiteloft.com
Sept. 24 – 26: Berlin Fiddlers Convention, Main Street, Berlin MD. Annual event begins Friday evening with a free concert, continues through acoustic competition on Saturday. On Sunday, a Bluegrass Gospel Jam. Also crafters & food vendors. www.BerlinChamber.org
Sept. 25 – 26: Park Place Jewelers Treasure Hunt at the Beach, 2nd St at the Boardwalk. Prizes include jewelry and gift certificates to area restaurants. www.parkplacejewelers.com
OCTOBER
Oct. 1: Family Campfire on the Beach, 130th St. on the Beach. 8 pm. Entertainment storytelling, music & refreshments. Bring a blanket or chair. www.ocsportscamps.com
Oct. 1-2: Winefest on the Beach, Inlet Parking Lot: Wine samplings, arts & crafts, live entertainment & food. Admission. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. www.winfest.com
Oct. 2nd: Harbor Day at the Docks – A Waterfront Heritage Festival. Seafood cooking demonstrations, fish cleaning techniques, live entertainment & much more. Free admission. www.ocharborday.com
Oct. 2 – 3: Chesapeake Celtic Festival, Furnace Town Living Heritage Museum, Snow Hill: All things Celtic including music and dance, booths, lectures and food court. Saturday and Sunday, 11a.m.-5:30 p.m. www.celticfest.net
Oct. 7-10: 12th Annual Endless Summer Cruisin, Inlet Parking Lot: Car show features 1,500 hot rods, customs, muscle cars, classics and more. Thursday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. www.endlesssummercruisin.com
Oct. 8-9: Oktoberfest, Convention Center, 40th Street: Three full days of continuous entertainment and authentic food and drink. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. www.oceanpromotions.info
Oct. 8-9: Oktoberfest Art & Craft Fair, Convention Center, 40th Street: Over 100 exhibitors displaying holiday items, gifts, fine art and more. Admission. Friday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. www.oceanpromotions.info
Oct. 9: Fiberfest, Julia A. Purnell Museum, Snow Hill. Annual textile festival includes vendors with handcrafted items, exhibits, children’s activities, animals, food & more. Admission. www.purnellmuseum.com
Oct. 15-16: Free State Corvette Club Weekend, Inlet Parking Lot: The 23rd gathering of Corvette enthusiasts features car shows, road rallies, and a Boardwalk parade on Saturday at 4:00 p.m. Car show will be held from 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m at Inlet. www.freestatecorvette.com
Oct. 17-24: Ocean City Fall Restaurant Week. Many spectacular restaurants will offer a special fixed-price three-course dinner menu for just $30 and/or a two-course menu for $20 (tax, gratuity and alcohol not included). Diners may simply visit their favorite participating restaurants throughout the week to enjoy the special prix fixe menus. Recommend advance reservations. www.oceancityrestaurantweek.com
October 23-24: Coastal Style Luxury Living Show, Convention Center. Showing the products & services of the region’s most prestigious businesses. Admission. www.coastalstylemag.com
Oct. 30: Halloween Spook-out Party, Northside Park Complex, 125th Street: Participants of all ages can have a howling good time with events that include carnival games, arts and crafts, hayrides, snacks and more. Costume contests scheduled throughout the event. Saturday, 1-3 p.m. www.ocsportscamps.com
Oct. 31: Swing for Youth Golf Open, Eagles Landing Golf Course. Benefits OC Recreation Boosters, which earmark all funds for youth recreation programs. www.eagleslandinggolf.com
NOVEMBER
Nov. 6-7: Fallfest of Fine Art, Convention Center, 40th Street: Juried show features fine art painters, sculptors and mixed media high crafts. Admission. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. duckmandon@comcast.net
Nov. 18-Jan. 2: Winterfest of Lights, town wide, Inlet lot and Northside Park, 127th Street: Dazzling lights on cold winter nights put everyone in a holiday mood. Northside Park display open Sunday-Thursday, 5:30-9:30 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 5:30-10:30 p.m. www.oceancitymd.gov/Recreation_and_Parks/special events.html
Nov. 20: Turkey Trot, Eagle’s Landing Golf Course. Four-player scramble for adults, includes a turkey feast after play. www.eagleslandinggolf.com
Nov 27: Putting on the Ritz – An Evening to Remember Overlooking the Bay, OC Convention Ctr. The Art League of Ocean City presents the First Annual “Putting on the Rize-An Evening to Remember Overlooking the Bay.” Cocktail reception, hors d’oeuvres, open bar, gourmet dinner and dancing.
Nov. 26-28: Holiday Shopper’s Fair, Convention Center, 40th Street: Shopping extravaganza with quality crafts, photography, florals, wrought iron, jewelry, Nascar items, toys and more. Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission. www.ococean.com
DECEMBER
Dec. 1- January 2, 2010: Winterfest of Lights continues. Dazzling lights and displays throughout Ocean City Maryland. www.ococean.com
Dec. 2 – 25: Victorian Christmas, Berlin, MD: Month-long celebrations include animated window displays, horse and carriage rides, breakfast with Santa, concerts, parade, house tours, Victorian fashion show and teas. Santa visits weekends at the Atlantic Hotel. www.berlinchamber.org
Dec. 4: A Nutcracker Christmas Celebration, Julia A. Purnell Museum, Snow Hill: An event inspired by the beloved ballet. See a display of nutcrackers and enjoy refreshments. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. www.purnellmuseum.com
Dec. 4: Ocean City Christmas Parade, 100th to 115th streets: Wonderful holiday parade with high school bands, floats and marching units. Many activities in Gold Coast Mall following the parade., floats, marching units, antique cars & more. Saturday, 11a.m.- 2 p.m.
Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve, Town of Ocean City. Town wide celebrations at your favorite hotel or restaurant. Enjoy ringing in the New Year at your favorite place. Many Ocean City hotels, clubs and restaurants offer special packages or menus for this special night. Call your favorite spot or 800-OC-OCEAN for general information.
HARBOR DAY at the docks – Waterfront Heritage Festival
The large, tent-filled parking lot surrounding the commercial dock located in West Ocean City became the site of the 2nd annual Harbor Day celebration on Saturday, October 11th. This event was formed to celebrate Ocean City’s long-time maritime heritage – and the present fishing fleet that provides countless pounds of fresh seafood for locals and visitors alike!
This event was both interesting and informative! 
Though offering free admission each attendee was personally greeted at the entrance. Going forward, it then was a matter of first choice whether to peruse the vendor filled, long tent or stroll the open-air perimeter where various nautically related demonstrations were taking place. We chose the tent – inside, in addition to some very pretty stuff being offered, there were booths representing local, non-profit organizations all related in some form to the enhancement and protection of our valuable location along the Atlantic Ocean 
and the adjacent Coastal Bay region. Leaving the big tent we stopped to view a juggler; doing interesting things using a Chinese yoyo! That was a first! Beyond that were the food tents – all local restaurants touting local seafood specialties. The very generous shrimp salad sandwich from Crab Alley was excellent – large, whole shrimp just barely held together with a light, tasty dressing. My companion had the Manhattan-style Clam Chowder from another local restaurant and declared it a sure winner. After eating, we passed the stage area where live music performances were on the scheduled throughout the day. Next, on to the outdoor demonstrations – 
by far the largest crowd was surrounding the fish-cleaning demo from Martin Seafood. A pretty young woman was deftly filleting large, beautiful flounder with the flash of a knife. Spread through the festival area there were many activities for the small fry (forgive the pun). A moon bounce was being vigorously jostled; crafts and a touch-me aquarium had been set up to entertain also.
It was delightful; interesting and informative, and very local, event – offering real seaside flavor and celebrating the traditions of our region and certainly one not to be missed next year.
For more information visit the website at www.ocharborday.com
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HOT RODS AND TEXTILES…a “Second Season” Double Header!
This weekend offers a real double-header for visitors and locals seeking area Annual Events. Beginning early on Friday, October 9th, the local roads began to rumble with the sounds of the 12th Annual ENDLESS SUMMER CRUISIN’ show. More than 1,500 customs, muscle cars, classics and more roll into Ocean City MD to brighten the inlet parking lot with their shining paint and glistening chrome. This four day custom auto extravaganza is a real delight to those of us who remember the cars of yesteryear. Wandering around the huge lot on a sunny afternoon it’s not difficult to find a car owner who won’t want to wax poetic on his auto – his proud creation. For more information on this and other area auto related shows visit the website at www.oceancitycarshows.com.
For our second event and a real change of pace, we may visit the Fiber 
(Some may ask – fiber? This is the textile type as opposed to the cereal type!) Fest, sponsored by the Julia A. Purnell Museum in Snow Hill Maryland – a short trip down Rt. 113 from Ocean City. Snow Hill is the seat of our Worcester County Government. And, it is a must see for any area visitor especially those with an eye to historic architecture – combined with rural charm. This year, due to the popularity of this event, the Fiber Fest has expanded to Sturgis Park along the lovely banks of the Pocomoke River. Displays, including some sources of 
the natural fibers – live alpacas and wooly sheep, are in abundance. All feature lovely examples of handmade textile art and craft. Many vendors willing to share their knowledge will be in attendance, some creating their lovely wares on the spot. To obtain further information about this and other museum events visit www.purnellmuseum.com.
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LABOR DAY CELEBRATED – and extended!
It’s the end of August, with Labor Day weekend not far off, marking the official end of summer. However, it also marks the beginning of our super Second Season here in Ocean City Maryland. The FREE, live ‘Concerts on the Beach’ program, (located at the North Division Street beach) continues each Wednesday at 8 pm – bring a blanket! And, keep that blanket handy for Thursday nights, same place, for the FREE “Bonfire Hour” where each week you can learn interesting facts, history and fun things to do from different presenters here in Ocean City. If you haven’t taken the time this summer, stroll down to the inlet end of the Boardwalk and visit the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum. 
Inside, this historic building offers a glimpse in our town’s past with exhibits of shipwrecks and beachwear…also mermaid displays, sands from around the world, aquarium room and Davy Jones’ locker. Small admission fee charged. September, daily, 10 am – 10 pm; October, daily 10 am – 4 pm; November and December, weekends, 10 am – 4 pm. The month of September begins with a show at the Convention Center, 40th & Bayside. It’s the annual Labor Day Weekend Art & Craft Festival (September 4 – 6th). Artists & crafters display 
unique items for show and sale. Of course our special Labor Day Weekend Concert will be held – it’s FREE and it’s on the beach, again at N. Division Street. Bring your blanket or chair and enjoy this always-terrific annual event on Saturday, September 5th at 8 pm.
And, remember Second Season (my favorite time) begins right now! The ocean is warm and the sand is inviting… and more seasonal fun events are scheduled right through the Christmas Holidays to come here in Ocean City Maryland. Remember, the ocean is always here, waiting for YOU!
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Autumn WINE FESTIVAL – of good spirit!
There seemed to be no limit to the atmosphere of good spirits (pardon the pun), despite the overcast skies, surrounding opening day for the 6th Annual Autumn WINE FESTIVAL this past weekend. Sponsored by Wicomico County Recreation, Parks & Tourism and sited at the Pemberton Historical Park in Salisbury MD this Fest is surely a hit! Nineteen MARYLAND wineries from all across the state proudly offered the results of intense viticulture – including champagne and port, to a very appreciative and discerning audience. A quick scan of the license tags in the parking lot 
showed festival attendees from all around the mid-Atlantic region. And why not? In addition to the fine wineries represented, the food court offered an additional fourteen vendors – presenting varied menus including oxtail stew, seared coconut shrimp, calamari and the ubiquitous Maryland favorite, oyster fritters. If this was not enough, the tents of over 30 craft vendors lined the festival perimeter – while seven distinctly different groups performed exceptional live music alternately on stage. There you 
have it – fine wines, great music, tempting foods and a little pre-holiday shopping – who could ask for more – surely something for everyone. This is a must-attend event for anyone looking for a very special fall weekend getaway. Next year (2009) this event is to be held on October 17th and 18th. Be sure and mark your calendars. And remember that Ocean City MD (30 minutes west) offers a wide variety of places to stay during your visit. For more information visit www.autumnwinefestival.org.
The CELTIC FESTIVAL – with spirit and color!
Traditionally held on the first full weekend each October, the CHESAPEAKE CELTIC FESTIVAL again proved to be a most enjoyable event – overflowing with spirit and color. In its 19th year this glorious production celebrates the history and traditions of the Celtic heritage using live performances including dancing, music and storytelling. Since 1993 the Furnace Town Living Heritage Museum located just north of Snow Hill (and a short 20 minutes from Ocean City Maryland) has provided the perfect setting, 
carpeted with pine needles amongst the towering trees. There, the sounds of bagpipe and flute seem to take on a most melodious and magical air. This year, for the first time, representatives from all of the still existing Celtic nations – Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Isle of Man, Cornwall, Brittany, Asturias and Galicia in Northern Spain were in attendance. As with any ethnic based activity many of the foods offered too were representative of the celebrants – with 
delicious Shepherd’s Pie, Bridies, and Pasties on the menu! And, under roof at the Celtic Marketplace site, a myriad of vendors presented their best Celtic inspired wares! A lively Festival and a lovely setting combined to make this a most memorable event.
For more information visit www.celticfest.net
Be sure to remember to mark your calendars for the 2009 Celtic Fest – the 20th already promises to be spectacular!
SAND CASTLE HOME TOUR – Beauty within and without!
Adding to the already growing list of unique and really fun Annual Events held during “second season” in Ocean City Maryland one cannot ignore the Sand Castle Home Tour.
Under the auspicious of the Art League of Ocean City this activity, in its 4th year, has grown in popularity and now may boast of having almost 1,500 participants sign up to view ten beautiful private homes here on our island. Large and small, single-family or condominium a tour of these homes reveals the very best of décor. 
It may be noted that tickets for this event are $25.00 with proceeds going toward building a large facility for the Art League. Beginning the tour this year at the present League facility located on 94th Street attendees are given a goodie bag filled with a program book containing a map of this years’ selections along with a pair of booties to be worn over your shoes while touring, we set forth. Depending on the amount of time spent at each location the tour may be quick or leisurely – 
completed over two days. Since nearly every home offers either a bay or ocean view the decorations although varied, all focus on our beautiful area scenery. Many have a very fitting nautical or tropical theme – some are more traditional but all offer really outstanding décor, which then may spark those really good ideas that we all need from time to time – to create more beauty at our beach.
To obtain more information on this “don’t miss” Annual Event visit the Art League website at – www.artleagueofoceancity.org.
Note: All photos are exterior views only – no interior photos permitted during this event. To enlarge any photo, just “click”.
Delmarva BIKE WEEK 2008 – rumbling FUN everywhere!
Today marks the beginning of the annual Delmarva Bike Week celebration here at the beach. And, if today’s early activity is any indication, the period from September 11th through the 14th will be BIG and FUN! First off, instead of having just one central location to gather, attendees now have six…of course, the lot at Harley Davidson of OC located on US Route 50 in Berlin seems to be the jumping off point, along with several other well-known, designated locations in and around the town of Ocean City Maryland including Seacrets, Winter Place Park, Sunset Avenue and the Francis Scott Key hotel this year’s event may prove to be the very best yet. 
The sixth location is the Harley Davidson shop in Seaford DE…offering another fun “ride” for bikers. Once arrived at any of these locations bikers will find lots of exciting new things – more vendors offering cool biking stuff and will include live entertainment offered each evening until 10 pm at the popular night spots. Over at the harbor, Mickey Fins bar and grill is featuring a Mechanical Bull Riding Contest for the most adventuresome! And everywhere there is fuel – for 
the body and soul… Welcome signs abound on restaurant marquees everywhere – or visitors may choose to fuel up under the vendor tents at any location – we enjoyed a terrific cheese steak sub, piled high with all of the requirements!!! This week is all about the bike, come hear that well-remembered rumble! For more information be sure to visit the official website at www.delmarvabikeweek.com To enlarge any photo, just “click”!
