OCEAN CITY — A fireworks display will cap off Ocean City’s Night in Venice boat and bayfront celebration for the first time in the event’s history.
The 62nd annual Night in Venice is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 16.
Night in Venice is a traditional highlight of the summer season in Ocean City — with thousands of spectators lining the bayfront and thousands more attending private parties at homes along the route from the Ocean City-Longport Bridge to Tennessee Avenue.
The theme of this year’s event is “Destination America.” Boats and homes can be decorated with themes that embrace the culture and regional pride of great cities and landmarks across the United States.
Also new this year: A “Collegiate Cup” will be awarded to a boat that best celebrates school pride. College and university alumni associations have been contacted, and boat owners are encouraged to reach out if they can participate. Two other new categories are “Best Nonprofit/Community Organization” and “Best Commercial Entry.”
The fireworks display will be launched from a barge at 9 p.m. and will be visible from Ocean City’s entire bayfront.
Boat owners can register early to take advantage of a $50 gift card. All participants will receive a complimentary photo of their boat in the parade. The theme will be represented in a commemorative mug given to all boat and home contestants. Regular categories in the decorated boat contest will include: Most Original, Best Decorated, Musical, Comic, Classic (25 years or older with historic value) and Children’s Division completely decorated by children 15 and under.)
Entries for boats and homes will be taken on line at ocnj.us/NIV or by calling 609-399-6111.
Please contact Event Coordinator Michael Hartman at mhartman@ocnj.us if you’re an owner willing to enter your boat to host dignitaries, special guests or other entries (but don’t have the time to decorate).