Ultimate List of Winter Activities in Ocean City, Maryland

christmas tree on beach

The most wonderful time of the year is right around the corner, and now is the perfect time to plan your holiday getaway to beautiful Ocean City, Maryland. With tons of festive family fun scheduled for the upcoming holiday season, you can fill your days with wonder and joy. From the Winterfest of Lights celebration to Christmas villages filled with unique gifts, you can cross off your shopping lists and make Christmas memories that will last a lifetime.

 

Check out our ultimate list of winter activities in Ocean City, Maryland, and get ready for an exceptional holiday vacation. And don’t forget to book your stay directly with Century 21 New Horizon! With stunning vacation rentals that put you near all the action, you’ll be supremely positioned to make the most of everything happening this season.

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Holiday Events and Celebrations in Ocean City, MD

Christmas Tree

The calendar is already packed with exciting holiday events slated to start in just a few weeks. Here are some of our favorites we’re looking forward to this year:

Winterfest of Lights

Northside Park is decking the halls with thousands of twinkling lights, animated displays, interactive character stations, and a showstopping 50-foot Christmas tree! Come sip hot chocolate as you wander the park’s paths and enjoy the vibrant lights. Santa will be on the scene for photos, and you can even find cute holiday gifts or stocking stuffers at the gift shop.

Event Details

  • When: Wednesday – Sunday from 5:30 – 9:30 PM Nov. 21-Dec. 25 | Dec. 25-31 open every night. *Dogs are allowed on Wednesday nights.
  • Where: Northside Park – 200 125th Street, Ocean City, MD, 21842
  • Price: $6.00 for guests 12 years old and up. Free for 11 and under.

Annual Ocean City, Maryland Christmas Parade

Usher in the official start of Christmas in Ocean City at the annual Christmas Parade. A celebrated tradition for more than 40 years, the parade features floats from local businesses, marching bands, costumed characters, and, of course, the Big Man himself, Santa Claus! 

Bring your blankets and chairs and post up at the perfect viewing spot. After the parade, head to the Carousel for more family-friendly fun and an awards presentation. Then, finish up with a stroll down the famous boardwalk. The extended parade route runs from Old Landing Road north to 120th Street. Southbound lanes of Coastal Highway will be closed to allow for curbside viewing.

Event Details

  • When: December 7, 2024
  • Time: Parade begins promptly at 11:00 AM

Let’s Get Lit Shore Craft Beer & Fun Fest

Head to the Cambria Hotel for some 21+ fun at the Shore Craft Beer and Beverage Fest. This exclusive festival returns to Ocean City for another year and features unlimited tastings of local craft beers, hard seltzers, Dogfish Head cocktails, and other delicious creations. With only 400 tickets available, you won’t want to wait to secure yours. Plus, you get all this for just $40! Happening on the same day as the Christmas Parade, it’s a great follow up to a festive morning.

Event Details

  • When: Dec. 7 from 4 – 7 PM
  • Where: Cambria Hotel, Ocean City, MD (on the water)
  • Price: $40 with VIP upgrades available

Christmas Cabin Spectacular

The Beach Bum West-O motel will be covered in a brilliant display of lights showcasing popular Christmas scenes this November. In addition to the light spectacle, you can shop their North Pole Vendor Village, snap pics with Santa in his workshop, and participate in a cash raffle! Kid’s activities will be available, and food truck vendors will be on-site serving up delicious bites throughout the celebration. 

Event Details

  • When: Nov. 21 – Nov. 30 from 5:00 to 9:00 PM
  • Where: 12308 Old Bridge Rd, Ocean City, MD 21842
  • Price: FREE

Festive Ocean City, Maryland Shopping Experiences

holiday shopping

Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind item or you just want to kick start the holiday shopping during your Ocean City vacation, there are some great options to check out. Scratch that outlet mall itch with a visit to West Ocean City Outlets or Rehoboth Beach Outlets. With national brands like Coach, Aerie, J. Crew, Home Goods, Old Navy, and more, you can put a serious dent in your family’s wish lists.

For a more craft and curated experience, the Holliday Shoppers Fair is just the ticket.

With everything from gourmet items and nautical-themed pieces to candles, photography, jewelry, and more, you’re sure to find some treasure. There will even be face painters for the kiddos and other children’s activities to keep them entertained while you scope out the goods. Head to Ocean City’s Roland E. Powell Convention Center Nov. 29 – Dec. 1 starting at 10 AM for all the holiday shopping fun. Entry is just $3 for the weekend!

Winter Recreation and Indoor Fun

couple ice skating

Winter in Ocean City can be pretty chilly, especially with the wind coming off the water. So, if you need a break from outdoor adventures, try some of these indoor activities! At the Carousel Hotel, you can visit their year-round indoor ice skating rink. Dust off your skills as you enjoy this winter pastime with the family. And if you need a break, there’s a game room right next to the rink!

If skating isn’t your thing, Head to Old Pro Golf and try their indoor mini-golf courses. Choose from the 68th Street Undersea Adventure and Dino Park courses or the 136th Street Safari Village and Caribbean Pirate courses and enjoy 18 elaborate holes designed to challenge even the most skilled putt-putter.  

For more indoor winter activities in Ocean City, Maryland, consider:

  • A Sherlock Carol – Nov. 9 at Art Leave of Ocean City Center for the Arts
  • Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer the Musical – Nov. 17 at Ocean City Performing Arts Center
  • Eastern Shore Train Toy & Hobby Show – Nov. 29 – Dec. 1 at the Holiday Shoppers Fair
  • A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage – Dec. 21 at Ocean City Performing Arts Center 

Book Your Winter Getaway to Ocean City Today!

view of ocean from ocean city, md vacation rental balcony

Featured Property: Braemar Towers 1714

With this ultimate list of winter activities in Ocean City, Maryland, you’ll be on your way to enjoying an incredible holiday getaway. The only thing left to do is secure your vacation rental!

At Century 21 New Horizon, we have you covered with a huge selection of vacation rentals perfect for your upcoming trip. Choose from beautiful oceanfrontbayfront, or canal front units and book your stay directly on this site for the best rate. Our team of local experts is available to assist you with everything from check-in to check-out, making your booking process and vacation a seamless experience. Browse our full list of Ocean City vacation rentals now and get ready for a fantastic holiday vacation!