2010 Wintertime Events & Activities
Although winter in the Ocean City Maryland area is considered the “off season” there remain plenty of events and activities for residents and visitors alike. Below is a listing of some 2010 seasonal offerings:
Nautical & Wildlife Art Festival and North American Craft Show – Jan. 16-17, Convention Center. Noted painters, sculptors & photographers highlight this annual show. Juried crafters utilizing a variety of media. Admission includes entry to both shows. http://donaldduckshoppe.com
36th East Coast Commercial Fishermen’s & Aquaculture Trade Expo – Jan. 29 -31, Convention Center. Features the latest gear & all facets of the aquaculture industry. Admission. http://marylandwatermen.com
Superbowl Sunday Scramble – Feb. 7th, Eagle’s Landing Golf Course. Tailgate party with 18-hole scramble tournament. For details, Eagle’s Landing, 410-213-7277.
Seaside Boat Show – Feb 12-14, Convention Center. Over 300 boats including sail pontoon, inshore and offshore. Everything for the boating life. All proceeds to area youth programs – known as the “Boat Show that works for children”. Admission. http://ocboatshow.com
OCCollector Car Auction – Feb. 20-21, Convention Center. Premier indoor collector car auction of hot rods, classics, exotic sports cars, muscle cars and much more. Admission. http://oceancitycarshows.com
Reach the Beach Rec & School Open Nationals – February 26 -27, Convention Center. One of the largest cheer competitions on the East Coast. Admission. http://acdaspirit.com
St. Patrick’s Indoor Soccer Tournaments – Feb. 26th – March 21st, four weekends at Northside Park, 125th St. Estimated that over 150 teams will take part in this tournament for players ages 10 and up. Check the website for age groups and registration. http://oceancitymd.gov/recreation
Reach the Beach Dance Nationals – February 28th, Convention Center. American Cheer & Dance Academy returns to Ocean City for its 13th annual competition. Admission for spectators. http://acdaspirit.com
Handbell Ringers Concert – March 13th, Convention Center. American Guild of English Handbell Ringers, Area III spring festival culminates in a FREE concert at 4:45 pm. http://areaiii.org
30th Ocean City Hot Rod & Custom Car Show – March 13-14, Convention Center. Premier indoor car show with special attractions and live entertainment. Admission. http://oceancitycarshows.com
St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival – March 13, noon -4 pm. 60th St. south to 45th St. 30th anniversary of Maryland’s second largest St. Patty’s parade. http://DelmarvaIrish.org
Home, Condo & Garden Show & Art & Craft Fair – March 19–21, Convention Center. Fresh ideas on decorating, remodeling, accessorizing or building your home. Admission includes both shows. http://ococeanpromotions.info
Mid-Atlantic Symphony – March 21, Enjoy music composed by Mozart and Beethovan. Tickets and information 888-846-8600. Admission. http://www.midatlanticsymphony.org
Keep watching…there is much more to come throughout the year in Ocean City Maryland!
CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS 2009 – Ocean City style!
During the holidays people visit the Ocean City Maryland area for a variety of reasons; to rest and relax – get away, to visit family and friends, and to view and participate in the area’s many traditional and non-traditional, seasonal activities.
There is no doubt that our area offers a wide range of choices for all visitors. First, if your choice is to get away – the rest and relax part is easy. Early winter brings a huge sense of natural quiet to the area. Bundled up, going for a stroll beside the surf or on our famed Boardwalk, watching the sea birds aloft and breathing the brisk sea air is 
nature’s own best tranquilizer. To our south, Assateague Island becomes a winter wonderland; bare branches and the occasional island pony or deer against the background of long stretches of pristine beach often provides natures most reflective scenery. Prolonging this sense of relaxation means perhaps finding oneself of an evening in one of the area’s many fine restaurants enjoying choice refreshments.
For our visitors who instead choose to partake of more vibrant area activities – these too are abundant. Area shopping is 
unique – and although we have the nearby chains we also offer plenty of those hard to find, one of a kind shops and galleries, especially in our sister town, Berlin Maryland. Outlet shopping may be found at the nearby White Marlin Mall/Outlet on Rt. 50. Horse and Carriage rides are also offered in Downtown Historic Berlin on weekends through Christmas. Area museums offer additional ‘open’ hours – showcasing our region’s unique seaside history. Traditional choral presentations abound in area churches. Here on the island of Ocean City a drive along Coastal Highway showcases colorful and exciting displays of lights.
New Year’s Day presents the more ‘non-traditional’ in the form of the annual “Penguin Swim”. One may view a huge mass of shivering bodies topped with smiling faces brave a quick dip in the cold Atlantic – to benefit our local hospital – Atlantic General!
Yes, there are truly many unique ways to enjoy the Holidays Ocean City style 2009!
To enlarge any photo, just ‘click’!
It’s “Lobster Blowout” at HARPOON HANNA’S!
There’s absolutely nothing disappointing about this particular annual event; each November this Ocean City Maryland icon restaurant, Harpoon Hanna’s, offers a special, month long special – a “Lobster Blowout”. Two evenings each week (Wednesday and Thursday) fresh, whole Maine lobsters are offered at half price! The other evening we decided to check out this well-advertised deal. First off, even at the early hour of 5 pm the large parking lot was full. However, upon entering, we discovered that much of that 
was due to the normal “Happy Hour” crowd; we were seated in the dining area immediately and very comfortably. Menus were provided although we already knew what this evening was all about. All that I can say is “WOW”! The ‘bugs’ served were perfectly prepared…steamed just right, and, with the addition of a couple of tiny slits in the claw we were able to dismember this tempting crustacean with ease and less mess (well almost – they do have the ubiquitous 
lobster bib available in case of a mishap)! And, melted butter does still drip from time to time! A choice of two sides is offered: Baked Potato, Cole Slaw, Mac & Cheese, Applesauce (the good kind) or Vegetable of the Day. After gobbling all these goodies we should have quit but the limited yet attractive selections on dessert menu proved too tempting; out came a slice of Key Lime pie to share. It was tasty but small; really all that we needed! Everything was good – really good! Attentive without being intrusive, our server, Chris was a real pro. Also, it appeared that by the time we left, many others were enjoying this special evening! This offering, as mentioned earlier is available Wednesdays and Thursdays throughout the month – except Thanksgiving Day, when another, more traditional special is offered!
Visit http://harpoonhannasrestaurant.com for information on all that this grand eatery has to offer!
To enlarge any photo, just “click”!
HOT ROD & CUSTOM CAR SHOW – a drive down memory lane!
Despite the dreary weather outdoors on this late winter weekend the annual Hot Rod & Custom Car Show inside the Ocean City Maryland Convention Center was more than inviting…in fact, it was festive, celebrating the 
very best of our area vintage automobiles. This premier show, always eagerly anticipated, features everything “car” from exotic customs and beloved classics to street machines and muscle cars. Glistening paintwork, shining engines and chrome provide the eye candy while “golden oldies”, music from the 60’s and 70’s, played on the PA system. One featured car stood beside a speaker stand from an old drive-in theater. An 
orange “woodie” had a surfboard rack atop – all ready for the beach. Many of the vehicles displayed this day were complete with captioned time line photos – from junkyard find to award winner, the result of endless hours of hard work…with more than a few dollars thrown in along the way! 
To satisfy the “pride of ownership” need for some attendees there were miniature hot rods for sale at one of the stands. This year a special visit from Playboy Playmate Julie McCullough, the “FUNNY BUNNY” from the all time favorite TV show Growing Pains.
For more information about Ocean City’s list of auto shows held throughout the year visit the website at www.oceancitycarshows.com. We hear that the 4 day long extravaganza “Cruisin’ Ocean City” to be held May 14th thru May 17th already has more than 2,800 bright shining entries to compete for your attention. Don’t miss this wonderful event – it’s all OC!
To enlarge any photo, just “Click”!
At the WATER’S EDGE GALLERY – and for a good cause!
‘Walking’ side by side during the regularly scheduled, Second Friday “Arts Stroll” in nearby Berlin Maryland the beginning of a two-week long, special gallery reception was held last evening at the Water’s Edge Gallery. This unique “second” annual activity features the works, including etchings, prints and original paintings of renowned local artists, Kevin Fitzgerald and Berlin native son, Patrick Henry. The exhibit activities include a silent auction, raffle and sales with proceeds benefiting the Berlin Fine Arts Scholarship. This is a $1,000 per year renewable scholarship, which will be awarded to one deserving student from 
Stephen Decatur High School who intends to pursue an arts career! It is to be hoped that the success of this event will help to grow the number of scholarships granted in the future.
The Water’s Edge Gallery is owned by Gail Lewis and sits atop the Berlin retail location of the well-known M.R. Ducks at the corner of Main Street and Jefferson beside the Atlantic Hotel in the historic Odd Fellows building. The lovely Crystal Viens, who pulled out all of the stops to host this excellent event, manages the gallery. There were fine nibbles…and sips available. The artists were 
present along with a delighted crowd…but best of all – there were many, many fine paintings! For anyone who loves art, especially fine art of and from our own Maryland’s Eastern Shore – this is a “must see”. The closing reception will be held on Saturday, February 28th from 3 -5 pm – with auction ending at 5 pm.
Phone 410-629-1784 for more information. Gallery open daily. Note: The little town of Berlin is but a brief 7 mile drive west from the mid-Atlantic resort of Ocean City Maryland.
To enlarge any photo, just “click”!
NAUTICAL & WILDLIFE ART FEST/NORTH AMERICAN CRAFTS
Packing a one-two punch, Ocean City Maryland kicked off the New Year with an always-welcomed, wintertime, annual event at the Convention Center, conveniently located mid-town at 40th Street. The Nautical & Wildlife Art Festival combined with the North American Craft Show; again, despite the unusually cold temperatures, today commanded a full house. With crowds of interested shoppers perusing the works of noted painters, sculptors and photographers the Nautical & Wildlife Art Festival was a busy place indeed. 
Many artists were willingly demonstrating their artistic techniques while simultaneously answering questions. On the Craft side of the huge exhibition hall booths were busy also with people viewing a variety of juried crafts utilizing a variety of media. In addition to the ubiquitous candles and quilts there was a particularly attractive array of very stylish, hand-made, quality knitwear – the hats, scarves and stoles in colorful mohair were especially appropriate for the chilly weather outside. Then too there were several food stands – from one, the luscious aroma of roasted and candied nuts helped further this most warm and welcoming environment! This early season show is held each year during January – please check our annual events calendar for the 2010 dates.
To enlarge any photo, just “click”!
WINTERFEST of LIGHTS – A Most Magical Place!
This is the time each year when Ocean City Maryland folks trade their surfboards for sleighs and tanning lotion for chap Stick! Well, perhaps not to that extreme however beginning on November 15th this island becomes a truly 
magical place during our annual Winterfest of Lights. At Northside Park located on 127th Street you may board the Winterfest Express tram and sing Christmas carols while gliding past lighted displays depicting favorite fairy tales including the Twelve Days of Christmas. Also at the 
park is a patio Café, (remember that lip balm?) where steaming hot cocoa may be enjoyed while perusing the fun stuff available for purchase at the Yukon Cornelius’ Gift Shop. Live entertainment is scheduled on selected nights. Heading south along Coastal Highway there is the fabulous Tunnel of Lights at the Inlet Lot where the white sandy beach 
is filled with lighted displays boasting a nautical theme. And, while here at the beach don’t forget to visit the Avenue of Trees located on Baltimore Avenue from 15th – 32nd Street. Finally, while you won’t really need a sleigh to enjoy the island at Christmas time you will want to travel the island end to end to view all of the lovely seasonal displays offered by our business community…over one million lights really do sparkle throughout the town turning Ocean City MD into a very magical place during the holiday season! This event takes place November 15th through January 1st, 2008 Sunday ~ Thursday 5:30 p.m. ~ 9:30 p.m., Friday & Saturday 5:30 p.m. ~ 10:30 p.m. (Note: to enlarge, just “click” on any photo)
WINE FEST at the Beach…13th Annual Celebration
Mark your calendars now to come celebrate the 2008 “Wine Fest at the Beach” in Ocean City Maryland on September 26th and 27th. The party will be held at the Inlet Park…where the Boardwalk Begins. Along with local and regional live music and quality arts and crafts vendors, this winefest 
will feature fine libations from wineries throughout the United States, Micro-brewed beers and real Delmarva and Chesapeake Bay Cuisine. Wine tasting sample coupons and a commemorative wine glass will be given with the General Admission ticket price of $23.00. Under the Designated Driver Program, to insure a 
safe time for everyone, designated drivers, though paying the regular admission price, will receive a special wristband that entitles them to free Pepsi Cola soft drinks all day and will also receive a complimentary commemorative wine glass upon arrival at the fest. To obtain a printable coupon good for $3.00 off the general admission price and more information on this fun event visit the website at www.winefest.com.
(Our thanks to Bill Swartwout for the terrific photos.)
STROLL OUR BEACHES…anytime!
An outdoor activity enjoyed by nearly everyone, visitor and local alike, is a stroll along the long, pristine white sandy beaches of Ocean City MD. Bordering the sometimes-boisterous surf along the Atlantic Ocean the beach 
is the perfect place to take a deep breath and clear one’s mind. One of the most celebrated occasions for a stroll is the Annual New Year’s Day Beach Walk. Now in it’s 29th year and held each January 1st, the Assateague Coastal Trust sponsors this ever-popular event at the Assateague Island State Park. And although one may visit the beach anytime a stroll along the shoreline, in addition to providing 
exercise, this particular event becomes a learning experience when led by a Park Ranger sharing his knowledge and experience of our barrier islands. On this day, all is not just walking, over the years we’ve viewed “pick-up” 
volleyball games where anyone is welcome to join in as well as hardy surf fishermen trying to celebrate their “first catch” on the first day of the New Year.
No matter the weather, no matter the season, to enjoy your visit to the fullest, the beaches of OC and the adjacent Assateague Island seashore parks are the place to be…!
Note: Our Assateague Island National Park was recently voted one of the five best beaches on the Atlantic Coast.
To enlarge any photo just “click”!
The ART LEAGUE of OCEAN CITY…talent at the beach!
One of the more traditional culture-oriented, year-round attractions located on our island is the art gallery sponsored by The ART LEAGUE of OCEAN CITY MD. Currently located in a small building on the north side of 94th Street # 502, towards the bay this gallery is open to the public certain hours every day except Monday. Within you will find an ever-changing exhibit 
of original artworks created by folks who have made Ocean City Maryland their home. It is here where, watercolor to oil to mixed media and pastels, including three-dimensional items and photography, all manner of visual arts are displayed. It is said that you may purchase a “piece of Ocean City” as many items displayed are for sale as gifts or for your 
personal collection. The LEAGUE is an independent organization made up of artists and artisans of all levels of skill including collectors, business people and supporters of the arts. Their mission is to bring the visual arts to the community through education, exhibits, scholarship programs and public service projects. Classes and workshops are 
offered continuously throughout the year for those people who are lucky to find themselves on an extended stay. Several of the best known endeavors of this group include the ART at the BEACH program that offers free summer classes for kids and assistance with the ever-anticipated, ARTS ALIVE, Ocean City’s fine art show. Also, not to be missed is the SAND CASTLE HOME TOUR, this year held on September 18 & 19 where 10 unique Ocean City homes are open to the public. Get your tickets early!
For more information on the classes offered and an exhibit schedule you may phone 410.524.9433 or visit the website at www.artleagueofoceancity.org.
Note: To enlarge any photo, just “click”.
