Ocean City Events
9 free events in Ocean City in 2026
By KristinJune 20, 20263 min read
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Story Haensler - Sundaes in the park.
You already know that vacations can break the bank. Luckily, the Town of Ocean City knows this too, and that's why, in addition to the miles of free beach and Boardwalk that are perfect for a summertime stroll, the town also offers a variety of free, fun and family-friendly activities throughout the season. It is possible to have a memorable trip without emptying your wallet - here are just 10 of the top free events, some hugely popular and others lesser-known, to take advantage of during your summer vacation.
And if you need any more ideas for free and fun things to do, well... we've got 100.
Movies on the Beach
Throughout the week, weather permitting, the whole family is welcome to catch a flick by the ocean, on Wednesday evenings on 118th behind the Carousel Hotel. All you need is a beach blanket and maybe some popcorn to enjoy a movie night out, all summer long. Check out the schedule here.
Free Kids Craft Saturdays
Join the Art League of Ocean City every week this summer for Free Kids Craft Saturdays, a drop-in outdoor activity where families can create, explore, and make memories together.
Thursday Night Fireworks
Tammy Ann - Enjoying the fireworks
Join us every Thursday night downtown on the beach at Caroline Street, grab your favorite spot in the sand, and watch the sky light up with color.
Fireman's Parade
Crystal Murphy - Visiting the fire station, and taking a tour of the fire trucks.
This year, the Annual Fire Fighters Parade will take place in Downtown Berlin! See firetrucks and floats fill the streets of Berlin at the annual Fire Fighter's Parade. All families and future firefighters are welcome to join the crowd.
4th of July Concert and Fireworks
Sunset on 4th of July looking at Assawomen Bay. Head to N. Division Street or Northside Park to listen to live music and then be treated to a fireworks extravaganza!
Whether you prefer to see the fireworks in Ocean City, MD at Northside Park or at N. Division Street just off the Boardwalk, both locations will feature a live band or DJ prior to the 9:30 fireworks display. You knew this would make the list of the best free things to do in Ocean City, MD because it's an Ocean City tradition.
Sunset Park Party Nights
Sunset Park Party Night every Thursday from July 11- the end of August.
Every Thursday night from July to August, you can watch the sun set over the Isle of Wight Bay while listening to live music - just bring a chair and maybe a few bucks for a cold beer. Check out the schedule here.
Sundaes in the Park
Photo by Janel Quillen Flynn
Head up to Northside Park to enjoy a free summer concert series, and bring a few bucks for ice cream, too! This family-friendly event hosts bands that play almost any genre from country to rock to tribute bands to oldies, and happens every Sunday night in the summer from 7 to 9 p.m. Check out this summer's schedule here.
Free Summer Programs At The Ocean City Life Saving Station
Stop by the Ocean City Life Saving Station on the Boardwalk for free children's activities Monday - Saturday at 10am. Check out what's offered here.
Ocean City's Farmer's Market
Visit the Gold Coast Mall on 114th St., between 8am to 12pm on Saturdays and Sundays all summer long. for the Farmer’s Market. Thriving grower/producer only Farmers’ Market.
Details and a full listing of the free events that Ocean City offers can be found here.About Kristin
Kristin is a writer and photographer in Ocean City, Maryland, and is the content manager for OceanCity.com and other State Ventures, LLC sites. She loves getting reader-submitted stories and photos, so send her an email anytime. She also works part-time at the Art League of Ocean City and the Ocean City Film Festival and lives just off the peninsula with her dog and fiancé. Her photos can be found on Instagram @oc_kristin.
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