Ocean City: Your Year-Round Family Fun Destination!
Hey Shore Lovers! If you think Ocean City, NJ is just a summer hotspot, think again! As your local guide, I'm here to spill the beans on why "America's Greatest Family Resort" is a fantastic place to visit in the fall and winter too. From colorful autumn festivals to magical holiday celebrations, OCNJ keeps the good times rolling. Imagine crisp beach walks, fewer crowds, and a cozy vacation rental to call your own. Let's check out some of the awesome events coming up from September 2025 through January 2026 that you won't want to miss!
Please note: Event dates and details are based on typical annual schedules. It's always a good idea to confirm specifics with event organizers closer to the dates!
September 2025 in OCNJ
- OCNJ Labor Day Race
Event Description: Kick off the month with a healthy start! This annual 5K run and 1-mile walk/run is a great way to celebrate the end of summer. Perfect for families and fitness enthusiasts alike!
Address: Typically starts near the Ocean City Music Pier, Moorlyn Terrace & Boardwalk, Ocean City, NJ 08226
Cost: Registration fee applies for participants; free for spectators.
Children/Pets: Children are welcome to participate or cheer; pets might be best left to relax at your rental for this one unless spectating from a permitted area.
Parking: Street parking can be found, but early arrival is recommended. Some municipal lots are also available.
[Image: Runners at the starting line of the OCNJ Labor Day Race with the boardwalk in the background]
More Info: Check the Ocean City Races and Events page for updates.
- OCNJ Airport Festival & Parachute Pyrotechnic Show
Event Description: Usually held mid-September, this event at the Ocean City Municipal Airport is a thrill for all ages! Expect ground displays of unique aircraft, classic cars, and often a spectacular parachute show in the evening.
Address: Ocean City Municipal Airport, 2600 Bay Ave, Ocean City, NJ 08226
Cost: Often free admission, some activities or refreshments may have a cost.
Children/Pets: Very child-friendly! Pets should be leashed and comfortable with crowds and potential noise.
Parking: Parking is typically available at and around the airport.
[Image: Colorful parachutes against the evening sky over the Ocean City airport]
More Info: Keep an eye on the Ocean City Vacation Events Calendar.
October 2025 in OCNJ
- Fall Block Party and Fireworks Spectacular
Event Description: This is a BIG one, folks! Usually held in early to mid-October, the Fall Block Party stretches for blocks along Asbury Avenue with over 400 crafters, food vendors, music, and family fun. The day is often capped off with a stunning fireworks display over the boardwalk.
Address: Asbury Avenue (from 5th to 14th Streets), Ocean City, NJ 08226
Cost: Free to attend; purchases from vendors are separate.
Children/Pets: Extremely child-friendly. Pets are allowed but be mindful of the crowds.
Parking: Street parking will be very limited. Utilize city lots and be prepared to walk or use the jitney service if available.
[Image: Crowds Browse stalls at the Ocean City Fall Block Party on Asbury Avenue]
More Info: Details usually appear on the Ocean City Vacation Events Calendar.
- OCNJ Halloween Parade
Event Description: Get your costumes ready! The annual Halloween Parade is a spooky delight for all ages, typically marching down Asbury Avenue in the evening. Expect creative floats, community groups, and plenty of candy!
Address: Asbury Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226
Cost: Free to watch.
Children/Pets: Perfect for children! Costumed pets are often a highlight.
Parking: Arrive early for street parking or use nearby municipal lots.
[Image: Children in Halloween costumes waving during the OCNJ Halloween Parade]
More Info: Check the official Ocean City website closer to October.
November 2025 in OCNJ
- Earlier Than The Bird - Downtown Shopping Extravaganza
Event Description: Get a head start on your holiday shopping! Usually the weekend before Thanksgiving, downtown Asbury Avenue merchants open early (sometimes in PJs!) offering great discounts and a festive atmosphere.
Address: Asbury Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226
Cost: Free to browse; great deals to be had!
Children/Pets: Children are welcome. Well-behaved, leashed pets are generally welcome in the outdoor shopping areas.
Parking: Street parking and municipal lots are available.
[Image: Shoppers on Asbury Avenue during the "Earlier Than The Bird" event with holiday decorations]
More Info: Look for information on the Ocean City Vacation Events Calendar.
- Christmas in the Downtown - "Our Miracle on Asbury Avenue"
Event Description: Kicking off late November, this event transforms downtown Ocean City into a winter wonderland. Enjoy caroling, horse and carriage rides, and photos with Santa as the holiday lights twinkle.
Address: Asbury Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226
Cost: Many activities are free; some like carriage rides may have a fee.
Children/Pets: Very child-friendly. Leashed pets are welcome to enjoy the festive outdoor atmosphere.
Parking: Street parking and municipal lots available.
[Image: Horse and carriage ride on a decorated Asbury Avenue during the Christmas season]
More Info: Details usually listed on the Ocean City events page.
December 2025 in OCNJ
- Ocean City Christmas Parade
Event Description: A beloved tradition! The Ocean City Christmas Parade typically takes place in early December, bringing festive floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus himself down Asbury Avenue.
Address: Asbury Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226
Cost: Free to attend.
Children/Pets: Absolutely wonderful for children! Leashed pets that are comfortable with crowds and noise are welcome.
Parking: Arrive early for the best street parking spots or use city lots.
[Image: Santa Claus waving from a float in the Ocean City Christmas Parade]
More Info: Check the official Ocean City website as December approaches.
- First Night Ocean City
Event Description: Ring in the New Year in a family-friendly style! Ocean City's First Night celebration on December 31st offers a wide array of entertainment at various venues throughout the town – music, magicians, amusement rides, and more, culminating in a fantastic fireworks display. This is an alcohol-free event.
Address: Various locations throughout Ocean City; a program guide will be available.
Cost: Admission buttons are required and typically go on sale in November.
Children/Pets: Highly recommended for children and families. Pets are generally not permitted in indoor venues.
Parking: Parking is available throughout the city, but plan to arrive early and consider walking between venues or using shuttle services if offered.
[Image: Fireworks exploding over the Ocean City boardwalk on New Year's Eve for First Night]
More Info: Visit FirstNightOCNJ.com for button sales and event schedules.
January 2026 in OCNJ
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day Events
Event Description: Ocean City often hosts events to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, including a Day of Service, a ceremony, and sometimes a community breakfast or volunteer opportunities. It’s a wonderful way to give back and reflect.
Address: Various locations, often including the Music Pier or local community centers.
Cost: Most commemorative events are free.
Children/Pets: Children are encouraged to participate in age-appropriate service activities and learn about Dr. King's legacy. Pets are generally not suitable for these events.
Parking: Available near event locations.
[Image: Community members gathered for a Martin Luther King Jr. Day ceremony in Ocean City]
More Info: Check the City’s official website or local news closer to January for specific event details.
- Quiet Season Pleasures
Event Description: While specific large-scale events might be quieter in January, it's the perfect time to enjoy the peaceful side of OCNJ. Think long walks on the beach, exploring the less crowded shops and restaurants, and enjoying the serene winter landscape. Many local businesses offer off-season specials.
Address: All over Ocean City!
Cost: Free to enjoy the scenery; costs vary for dining and shopping.
Children/Pets: Great for kids who love the outdoors and for invigorating walks with your leashed pets on the beach (check seasonal local ordinances for beach access with pets).
Parking: Plentiful street and lot parking.
[Image: A peaceful, empty Ocean City beach on a crisp January day]
More Info: Explore the Ocean City Vacation website for ideas.
Doesn't that sound like a blast? Ocean City has so much to offer beyond the summer sun. Why not make some new memories this fall or winter?
Search for vacation rentals here for your OCNJ getaway!
Can't find the perfect spot or dates for your trip around these awesome events? Don't worry! Please contact one of our local offices, and our friendly team will help you find available vacation homes. You can find our office locations and contact information here.
Stay tuned for more Shore fun coming your way!