Town Takes Over Annual Christmas Parade, Adds Reception At Carousel

OCEAN CITY — The 33rd Annual Ocean City Christmas Parade marches along Coastal Highway on Saturday, Dec. 5, starting at 11 a.m. on Old Landing Road and marching northbound in the southbound lanes of Coastal Highway to the Judges stand at 120th Street.

The event will feature more than 50 units, including high school bands, horses, antique cars, colorful holiday floats and more.

“This is the first year in the parade’s three-decade history that the Town of Ocean is coordinating the event,” said Ocean City Special Events Director Frank Miller. “We wanted to continue the tradition of the event, which is loved by so many, but also add a few new exciting features, including the first ever Masters of Ceremony and post parade reception.”

This year, WBOC television anchors Maxine Bentzel and Chris Weimer will act as the Masters of Ceremony, providing a play by play of the parade for spectators. Professional judges will review bands and other units in nine categories, with trophies being awarded inside the Carousel Hotel following the parade.

The awards presentation is part of a post-parade reception hosted by the Carousel Hotel, bringing additional family fun for participants and patrons alike. Festivities at the hotel will begin immediately after the parade conclusion and will include half-priced ice skating, a DJ playing continuous holiday music and free photos with Santa and Mrs. Clause. In addition, complimentary winter refreshments will be available.

“We are really excited to continue the holiday celebrations and long lived tradition of the Ocean City Christmas Parade,” Miller said. “An extra special thanks goes out to our parade sponsors at Carousel Oceanfront Hotel and Condos, Coca-Cola, The Greene Turtle, UA Local 486 and Food Lion, for helping us to continue this family tradition in Ocean City.”

To participate in the Ocean City Christmas Parade, which is coordinated by the Town of Ocean City, registrants should contact the Special Events Department at 410-250-0125.

There is no charge to participate. For those wishing to view the parade, plenty of seating will be available along the west side of the half-mile parade route, including the Food Lion parking lot and judging area. Spectators will not be permitted to watch the parade from the median area of Coastal Highway. Motorists are reminded that traffic pattern changes will begin approximately 8 a.m. and traffic congestion and delays should be expected.