February 16th 2024

Ocean City is gearing up to treat visitors to an exciting Presidents Day weekend with not just one, but two fantastic events suitable for all ages.

First up is the inaugural Winter Warrior Festival, a free event happening on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Ocean City Civic Center. This new addition promises a day packed with fun for families, featuring everything from children's races and obstacle courses to a thrilling truck pull competition for teams. Michele Gillian, executive director of the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, highlighting how it showcases Ocean City as a vibrant destination for everyone to enjoy.

Simultaneously, the fifth annual Nature and the Environment Family Fun Day will be held from 9:30 a.m. to noon at Ocean City High School. This family-friendly event, sponsored by the city's Environmental Commission, offers interactive experiences focused on nature and the environment. Visitors can look forward to encountering animals from the Cape May County Park & Zoo and the Wetlands Institute of Stone Harbor.

(Baily Wolf of the CMC Park & Zoo at last year's event)

The close proximity of these events allows attendees to easily hop between them, maximizing their enjoyment of both!   And for those who prefer to spectate rather than compete, there will be ample opportunities for shopping and dining from local merchants, making it a perfect way to spend the long weekend.

Business owners like Caitlin Quirk, president of Ocean City’s Downtown Merchants Association, are eagerly anticipating the holiday weekend's potential to bring vibrancy to the town. Quirk sees these events as not only providing entertainment but also driving business, especially during the traditionally quieter off-season.

With optimistic expectations from leaders like Wes Kazmarck, president of the Boardwalk Merchants Association, the weekend holds promise for a bustling atmosphere and economic boost, especially if the weather plays along. The Winter Warrior Festival, in particular, is seen as a fresh addition that could invigorate both the Boardwalk and the entire town, offering locals and visitors alike a memorable experience on the shore.