Ocean City Celebrates 49th Anniversary of Sunfest

Beaches Worcester

Ocean City, MD

 The sun is still shining and the weather is great in Ocean City as we gear up for the much-awaited return of Sunfest, our “Thank you for the Season” event and one of the largest outdoor festivals in the region! Ocean City’s Sunfest, located in the Inlet Lot October 24-27, 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience, featuring an exciting lineup of entertainment, delicious food, arts and crafts, and endless fun for the whole family. Admission to Sunfest is free.

What to Expect at Sunfest this year:

  1. Live Entertainment: Sunfest is known for its outstanding live performances, and this year is no exception. Enjoy four days of FREE musical acts including Vertical Horizon, All Revved Up “Meat Loaf Tribute”, The Gathering Gloom “The Cure Tribute”, and multiple genres ensuring there is something for every music enthusiast.
  2. Delicious Food: Savor the flavors of Ocean City with an array of mouthwatering dishes and treats. Sunfest’s selection of food vendors offer tasty made-to-order eats so you won’t go hungry.
  3. Arts and Crafts: Discover unique treasures and one-of-a-kind creations from talented artisans and crafters. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for the perfect gift, you’ll find it here.
  4. Kid-Friendly Activities: Sunfest is a family-friendly event! Kids can enjoy a variety of activities, including a beach maze, beach tractor rides, pumpkin races, OC Jeep Club’s Drive-n-Disguise & Halloween Trunk or Treat, and more. For some of the events, come dressed in your costumes!
  5. Dog Days of Sunfest: With the Ocean City’s boardwalk and beach open to pets in October, Sunfest brings activities tailored to the furry friend member of the family. Opportunities include State and County K-9 demonstrations, the Howl-O-Ween pet parade, expert trainer PETx talks, a “Try-It” agility and weave pole course, and the return of Dock Dogs with a National Points Competition. Novice dogs who love toys and water can enter the Dock Dogs event online at DockDogs.com.
  6. Bike Events: Saturday brings bicycle fans for the third annual Show-N-Shine & Swap Meet. Showcase your vintage, modern or custom bike or sell and trade bicycle-related products and parts. All are welcome and participation is free. If you wish to showcase your wares, register online at ococean.com/sunfest/activities.
  7. Saturday Bonfires and Fireworks: As the sun sets, Ocean City’s Sunfest comes alive. Gather on the beach Saturday evening for a cozy bonfire and music, followed by fireworks, creating a magical family-friendly evening.

Mayor Rick Meehan expressed his excitement about the return of Sunfest, stating, “Sunfest has always been a beloved tradition in Ocean City and is our way of saying thank you for a great season. We are thrilled to welcome locals and visitors back for another incredible year!”

To view the full schedule of events visit www.ococean.com or download the Ocean City App by searching “Visit Ocean City MD” in App stores.

Parking is restricted at the festival grounds so it is advised visitors take advantage of the Town’s Park and Ride services. The West Ocean City Park and Ride on Route 50 just west of the bridge provides a convenient location for attendees with free parking and affordable shuttle service to and from the South Transit Center on S. Division Street, just one block from Sunfest. Shuttle service is $4 to ride all day.

Special Event express shuttle service is also available at the Convention Center on 40th St., where you can park for free in the south lot and ride the express shuttle directly to Sunfest. Fare is $4 to ride all day. Passes purchased for either express service are also valid all day aboard the Coastal Highway Beach Bus.

For additional information regarding bus fares for Senior Citizens, Disabled Persons, Medicare Card Holders and children please call Ocean City Transportation at 410-723-1606 or visit the Public Works Transportation webpage at www.oceancitymd.gov.

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