12 Days Of Cheer In Ocean City: Making This A December To Remember

The holiday season is officially here, and there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the magic in and around Ocean City. To help get you in the spirit, we’ve rounded up a dozen festive ideas you can enjoy throughout the month — each one a fun, joyful way to celebrate the season close to home.

From twinkling light displays and holiday markets to cozy treats, local shopping spots, winter activities and seasonal shows, these 12 picks highlight what makes Ocean City feel especially merry this time of year. Whether you check off one or all twelve, it’s all about slowing down, supporting local businesses and making memories.

1. See the local lights in and around Ocean City.

Some Ocean City neighbors go all out for the holidays, decking out their homes with Christmas lights, wreaths, garland and more. Last year, local residents recommended driving by homes on Waterway Road, Asbury Avenue, Seabright Road and Gilbert Lane, but there may be more to see around your neighborhood this year. Remember to be mindful when driving through residential neighborhoods as you check out the holiday displays.

2. Lace up your skates and hit the ice at Skate Zone Atlantic City.

Skate Zone Atlantic City has plenty of space for ice skating, figure skating and ice hockey with its an NHL-sized ice sheet. This nearby rink offers public skating sessions on Tuesdays, Thursdays and select Fridays; check the homepage for the full schedule. For beginners, Skate Zone also offers a “Learn to Skate” program every Sunday at 9 AM.

3. Take part in downtown Ocean City’s weekend holiday festivities.

From Thanksgiving through Christmas, the Ocean City weekend event calendar is full of options for holiday fun. On Saturdays, you can meet Santa in downtown from 9 to 11 AM or take a horse-drawn carriage ride from 12 to 3 PM On Dec. 5, the Ocean City Christmas Parade will head down Asbury Ave. from 6 to 7 PM, and you can check out the Train Show at the Music Pier on Dec. 6 and 7 from 10 AM to 4 PM. On Dec. 12 and 19, head downtown for Festive Fridays to see Asbury Avenue fully lit up for the holidays.

4. Perk up with a drink from Ocean City Coffee.

With a full menu of lattes, brewed coffees, teas and blended drinks, you’re sure to find the perfect cup at one of Ocean City Coffee locations. Along with locally-roasted coffee and handcrafted drinks, this shop offers gift baskets, t-shirts, tumblers and coffee by the pound. You can visit them year-round at 916 Boardwalk, Monday through Sunday from 6 AM to 6 PM, or at 917 Asbury Avenue, Monday through Sunday from 6 AM to 5 PM.

5. Shop local at Stainton’s by the Sea.

As one of multiple Stainton’s brands in Ocean City, Stainton’s by the Sea at 1216 Boardwalk offers options from over 30 local crafters and artisans. This indoor marketplace offers the chance to browse items from multiple vendors featuring goods such as jewelry, clothing, photography, stationery, art and 3D printed designs. Stainton’s by the Sea is open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM.

6. Have fun with friends at Somers Point Brewing Company.

Take a quick drive over to Somers Point Brewing Company for games, trivia and music. On Mondays, you can belt out your favorite tunes with karaoke from 6 to 8 PM, or you can play a new board game at Tuesday Game Nights. On Wednesdays at 7 PM (except Nov. 26), check out DJ Trivia for the chance to win prizes with your team. Somers Point Brewing Company has plenty of beers on tap, and dogs are welcome in their outdoor seating area.

7. Explore local art at the Ocean City Arts Center.

Located in the Ocean City Community Center, the Ocean City Arts Center is hosting a Pottery and Mosaics Show from Nov. 25 through Dec. 13. The exhibit features pieces made by students and teachers from the Arts Center, and all show pieces are for sale, offering a chance to find one-of-a-kind gifts. On Dec. 5 from 6 to 8 PM, the Arts Center is hosting an Artist’s Reception where you can meet the artists, learn about their work and the programs available at the Arts Center.

8. Visit Santa’s Hideaway Adventure at Ocean Casino Resort.

Take a trip to the North Pole right on the Atlantic City Boardwalk at Santa’s Hideaway Adventure, open now through Dec. 24 in the Ocean Casino Resort. Step inside Santa’s Magical Elevator to be whisked across the ocean to Santa’s Secret Hideaway. You can visit with Santa and afterwards, explore the Shop at Santa’s Hideaway Adventure. Reservations and tickets are available online.

9. Take in the Light Show on the Lake at Historic Smithville Village.

About 30 minutes away in Historic Smithville, you can shop in unique small businesses, stroll on cobblestone streets and see a dazzling light show on Lake Meone. The Light Show on the Lake takes place Thursday through Sunday evenings from 5:30 to 9 PM through Jan. 5 and features over 120 Christmas trees floating across the water. Be sure to catch the Smithville Train and check out the Magic Talking Christmas Tree while you’re here!

10. Savor authentic Greek cuisine at Yianni’s Cafe.

For nearly two decades, Yianni’s Cafe on Asbury Avenue has been serving fresh, hearty meals that bring the flavors of Greece to Ocean City. Yianni’s Cafe is family-owned and uses fresh, high-quality ingredients to create delicious meals, including gyros, salads, and breakfast omelettes. The cafe is open Monday through Sunday from 8 AM to 8 PM, and also sells bottles of Golden Greek Olive Oil to bring Mediterranean flavor to your home cooking.

11. Enjoy the natural beauty of Corson’s Inlet State Park.

Since its establishment in 1969, Corson’s Inlet State Park has been a great local spot to take in the natural beauty of New Jersey’s waterfront. As one of the last areas of undeveloped coast, the park provides a habitat for many species of birds and wildlife. You can explore sand dunes and marine estuaries while hiking, boating, fishing or crabbing. Dogs are allowed at the park from November through February, and you can get park passes online at the State of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection website.

12. Find unique gifts at the Ocean City Historical Museum.

Located within the Ocean City Community Center, the Ocean City Historical Museum documents the city’s history from its founding in 1879. The museum’s current exhibits dive into the stories of Hollywood actress Grace Kelly, the Boardwalk and the city’s founders. While you’re there, check out the museum’s gift shop for games, puzzles, jewelry, vintage photographs and museum t-shirts. The Ocean City Historical Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM.

Stay warm, shop local and enjoy every twinkling moment — happy holidays, Ocean City!

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