As quirky as it is traditional, Ocean City continues to promote special events that attract families to the resort and keep them coming back. Of course, many of the events are traditional old favorites, like the Baby Parade and Night In Venice, their famous block parties, Farmer’s Market, Flower Show and Car Shows. But Ocean City’s true personality shines through its more offbeat events like its Freckles contest, Hermit Crab Beauty Pageant, French Fry sculpture, Martin Z. Mollusk Day and the very popular Doo Dah Parade, which kicks off the season of unusual events when it is held every year on the Saturday following America’s Tax deadline, April 15th. With its strolling array of creatively clad basset hounds and eccentric celebrity grand marshals, the Doo Dah Parade is an annual affair that continues to draw locals and visitors alike.

Martin Z. Mollusk Day is Ocean City’s own version of Ground Hog Day and is held in early May on the beach, where hermit crab Martin Z. Mollusk is urged to come out of his shell so it can be determined if he sees his shadow, thereby predicting a long and sunny summer!

The largest event held in Ocean City is its annual Night In Venice, one of the largest boat parades in the world. Boaters and waterfront homeowners decorate their properties for a huge, fun-filled festival on the city’s bayside. It is surely one event not to be missed.

The end of the year is celebrated by revelers of all ages at First Night Ocean City on December 31st, featuring fun entertainment thought the seaside resort.

Accommodations run the gamut from family-affordable to the swankiest of abodes. Ocean City provides ample hotel accommodations, bed & breakfast inns and vacation rental properties to delight every taste.

Of course, visitors and locals alike are magnetized to the island’s eight miles of gloriously clean beaches and its accompanying three-mile long boardwalk – complete with amusements, a water park, miniature golf, arcades and lots of food to enjoy. On the boardwalk, the landmark Ocean City Music Pier hosts a variety of musical acts from classical to big band and rock & roll to reggae. The Ocean City boardwalk offers a family friendly atmosphere for all to enjoy. Visitors will revel in the delight of slipping in to a variety of retail stores, including art galleries, gift shops, clothing boutiques and more.

Ocean City also offers spiritual and entertaining events through the Ocean City Tabernacle, a summer community interdenominational Christian ministry that provides nationally known speakers, fine music and a welcoming worship setting. Come enjoy the speakers, music and beautiful grounds. Vacationers are especially invited to “come as you are.”

This Jersey Cape gem is a great place to enjoy recreational and cultural facilities, including the Aquatic & Fitness Center, Bayside Center, skateboard park and fully equipped playgrounds as well as the Ocean City Arts Center, Public Library and Historical Museum.

Ocean City’s downtown district, along Asbury Avenue from 6th through 12th Streets, is comprised of over 100 magnificent shops and eateries. On the “Avenue,” shop for the latest trends in clothing, antiques, art, shoes, gifts, beach items, hardware and more! Take time to stop in a quaint café, fine restaurant, traditional diner or ice cream shop to sample a taste of the island. Additionally, the Ocean City boardwalk is one of the few that offers year-round retail shopping that features upscale gifts, house wares and clothing.

When visiting the Jersey Cape, make sure to carve out ample time to enjoy the amenities that Ocean City offers. Ocean City is the perfect place for fun family times that will evolve into precious lifetime memories.

For more information call 1-800-BEACHNJ or visit www.ocnj.us •