Night In Venice 2025: Ocean City Police Issue Safety Advisory

OCEAN CITY, NJ — Night in Venice is Saturday, and Ocean City police are advising all residents and visitors that officers will be everywhere to ensure it is a safe environment for all.

The 70th Annual Night in Venice boat parade is July 26. Read more: 70th Annual Night In Venice This Month: How To Participate In Ocean City Tradition

During the parade, police say they will be "highly visible" along the route and surrounding streets. But they will also be patrolling lagoons and streets during the day.

"In recent years, large groups have congregated in the lagoons on rafts and other flotation devices during the daytime hours leading up to the parade," police said. "Residents and visitors in the area have advised the OCPD that the groups consist of many unsupervised juveniles and young adults under the age of twenty-one consuming alcohol and trespassing on private property.⁣"

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Police said they share concerns that the informal daytime activity creates an unsafe environment.

"⁣The OCPD is advising all residents and guests that there will be increased enforcement in the area during the day to curtail the illegal aspects of the day, specifically trespassing, underage drinking and adults with open containers of alcohol," police said. "The OCPD has requested mutual aid from numerous law enforcement agencies in the area. That mutual aid will include numerous Police Marine Unit vessels and additional vehicle, bicycle and foot patrol officers patrolling the sidewalk and streets leading to the lagoons.⁣"

Mayor Jay Gillian, in a statement, encouraged all participants follow safety guidelines and "make smart choices."

"We hope that all residents, guests, participants, and viewers of the 70th annual Night in Venice Parade have a safe and enjoyable time," police said.

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