Winterfest of Lights kicks off 25th year in Ocean City
Winterfest kicks off for its 25th year Thursday, Nov. 16, with a special opening ceremony at Northside Park in Ocean City.
The popular holiday attraction, which draws thousands of visitors each winter to Ocean City, promises to be bigger and better this year.
The opening ceremony will take place at 5:30 p.m. in the Winterfest Village at Northside Park at 127th Street.
It features holiday songs and dance by Ocean City Elementary School’s OC Stars.
Mayor Rick Meehan will flip the switch to light the 50-foot Christmas tree to officially open the Winterfest of Lights.
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Santa will make an appearance at the opening ceremony, which will also feature free rides on the Winterfest Express train for the remainder of the evening.
The Winterfest Express takes visitors on a mile-long journey through a lights display, accompanied by music. Sing along while enjoying such displays as the Twelve Days of Christmas, Santa’s Workshop, The Wizard of Oz and the twinkling Christmas tree.
After your ride, visit the Winterfest Pavilion, where you can warm up with a hot chocolate while you browse the gift shop. Santa will be available for photos every night through Dec. 23.
Winterfest of Lights will also be center stage for Ocean City’s New Year’s Eve celebration including a live DJ, giveaways and fireworks. Advance tickets will be available at Northside Park and the Ocean City convention center, 40th Street during business hours in November and December.
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The hours of operation will be Sundays to Thursday from 5:30-9:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5:30-10:30 p.m.
Admission is $5 for people 12 years and older and free for kids 11 and younger.
For more information, visit https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/special-events/winterfest/.
IF YOU GO
Winterfest of Lights
When: Nov. 16 to Dec. 31. Sunday to Thursday, 5:30-9:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5:30-10:30 p.m.
Where: Northside Park, 127th Street, Ocean City
Cost: $5 for people 12 years and older
Info: https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/special-events/winterfest/