What’s Happening- Christmas and New Years events in OC

WE’RE coming to the end of 2021, but the events scene in OC is far from coming to a close. Some of the most fun events are served up in this season. Shop in your pajamas during Earlier than the Bird, wave hello to Santa Claus as he is helped off the roof of City Hall by a fireman to kick off the Christmas season, and get ready for 2022 with First Night and the Polar Plunge. Here’s a guide:
Take a trip on foot over the 9th Street Bridge during the Trail of Two Cities 5k Run/ Walk on November 6. To register, email Lisa at [email protected] or online at https://www.ocnj.us/ TrailofTwoCities5kRun/Walk.
This year’s Veteran’s Day program on November 11 will be held at 11am at the Ocean City Tabernacle, 550 Wesley Avenue.
Winterfest by the Sea on November 13 will have crafters and food vendors along with appearances by Santa Claus and the Grinch.
Go holiday shopping in your pajamas at Earlier than the Bird on November 20 from 8am to 12pm. There’s giveaways and specials to get you ready for the upcoming holiday season.
Run down the Ocean City Boardwalk for the Fast and Furriest 5k Turkey Trot before you eat your turkey on November 25. Proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Ocean City.
Get into the Christmas spirit with carol singing, the arrival of Santa Claus, and the lighting of City Hall at “Our Miracle on Asbury Avenue” on November 26 from 2-5pm.
The Christmas Parade on December 3 starts at 6pm on Asbury Avenue from 6th-11th Street. Carriage Rides around Asbury Avenue will be offered on weekends from November 20 through December 19.
The Train Show will be held at the Music Pier on December 4 and 5 from 10am-4pm. This annual event is fun for all ages.
End 2021 at First Night on December 31 from 4pm-12am at locations around the island. This night of family fun, music, and food ends with fireworks to ring in the New Year. New Year new clothes! Hit Downtown for sales and fun during the First Day Shopping Extravaganza on January 1.
Run your way into the New Year with the annual First Day 5K Boardwalk Run at 12:30pm and use the ocean as your ice bath for the first dip in the ocean during First Day at the Beach at 2pm on the beach at Moorlyn Terrace on January 1.
NEW STORES TO VISIT
There’s a one stop shop that’s much closer than it used to be– Target in Somers Point! Target, 212 New Road, is scheduled to be open for shopping in November. It is in the spot formerly held by Kmart.
After you visit Target, pick up a sweet treat at Drip N Scoop Somers Point, 604 New Road. This long awaited location is now open for your coffee, donuts, and waffles with ice cream needs.
Bāsalt Bodywork has moved. The massage studio is now located at 1309 Asbury Avenue.
La Autentica Grocery Store and Grill is slated to move from 511 E 8th Street to the spot formerly held by Chill Hand Rolled Ice Cream, 1018 Asbury Avenue.
Wonder Bear is coming to Downtown just for the holiday season. Downtown Gillian’s will be selling tickets aside of We Make It Personal.