Ocean City had a packed lineup of holiday events, but if you are like your editor and put off holiday activities until the last minute, don’t fear! There are still a few great holiday activities in Ocean City before the season is over. Even if you can’t make it to one of these events, be sure to check out the great holiday decorations in downtown Ocean City.
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- One Last Festive Friday (Dec. 22): from 4 to 7 p.m. Downtown merchants are celebrating “Festive Fridays” this year. The fun started on Nov. 24 with Ocean City’s traditional Christmas in the Downtown – “Our Miracle on Asbury Avenue” event and continued on Dec. 1 with the annual Christmas Parade. Asbury Avenue will host another Festive Friday on Dec. 22 with shopping, carolers, and free horse-and-carriage rides from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., with boarding at Sixth Street and Asbury Avenue.
- Photos with Santa in Lifeguard Boat (Dec. 23): Noon to 3 p.m. – Santa will make one last stop for the season at the Ocean City Music Pier.
- Visits with Santa in the Downtown (Dec. 23): 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. – Santa makes his final rounds at Mark Soifer Park, 9th Street and Asbury Avenue.
- First Night New Year’s Eve Celebration (Dec. 31): Celebrate New Year’s Eve with the entire family. The 31st anniversary of this Ocean City event will feature traditional favorites like rides, ice-skating and magicians, along with headline entertainment including the Stevie Nicks tribute band Gypsy and the Motown revue Motor City. For a complete schedule and to purchase all-inclusive admission buttons, please visit firstnightocnj.com.
- First Day Celebration (Jan. 1, 2024): Activities include a 1 p.m. 5K run on the Boardwalk (pre-register at www.ocnj.us/race-events), a 2 p.m. First Dip polar plunge, and an all-day Shopping Extravaganza. Visit firstnightocnj.com for more information.