by Ocean City, Maryland, will host the 50th annual Sunfest from October 23 to 26, 2025. This milestone festival has grown into one of the most beloved autumn events on the East Coast, attracting thousands of visitors to enjoy a vibrant mix of arts, crafts, music, food, and family-friendly activities. Sunfest is known for its unique combination of local and national talent, interactive events, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Event Dates and Timings
- Thursday, October 23: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday, October 24: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday, October 25: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday, October 26: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
With four full days of activities, attendees can plan to enjoy everything from art exhibitions to live music performances.
Venue of the Ocean City Sunfest
- Location: Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, Ocean City, MD 21842
- Accessibility: The festival site is wheelchair accessible, with paved pathways and ramps.
The festival is held near the beautiful Ocean City boardwalk and beach, providing a scenic backdrop for all activities.
Admission and Tickets
- Entry: Free for all attendees
- Parking: Ample parking is available in nearby lots, with accessible parking spaces for those with disabilities.
Sunfest’s free entry makes it easy for families, students, and tourists to attend without worrying about ticket costs.
Arts and Crafts Exhibitions
- Number of Artists: Over 200 artisans from across the U.S.
- Art Forms Displayed: Jewelry, pottery, textiles, paintings, photography, woodcrafts, sculptures, and more
- Interactive Demonstrations: Visitors can watch glass blowing, pottery making, and wood carving demonstrations
The festival provides a unique opportunity to explore handmade items, meet artists, and even purchase one-of-a-kind creations to support local and national artisans.
Live Music and Entertainment
- Stages: Two main stages for continuous performances
- Genres: Rock, country, R&B, jazz, and fusion
- Performers: Over 20 bands and musicians from across the country
- Schedule Highlights:
- Morning acoustic sets for a relaxed vibe
- Afternoon full-band performances for lively entertainment
- Evening headliner acts featuring popular regional bands
Sunfest combines live music with a festive atmosphere, giving attendees the chance to dance, relax, and enjoy high-quality performances.
Food and Beverages
- Food Options: The festival offers a wide selection of cuisines, including seafood, BBQ, international dishes, and classic festival treats.
- Specialty Foods: Funnel cakes, crab cakes, soft pretzels, and locally-inspired dishes
- Beverages: Soft drinks, water, craft beers, and wine available at dedicated beverage stations
The festival ensures there is something for every taste, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Family and Pet-Friendly Activities
- Children’s Maze: A Halloween-themed maze with decorations, challenges, and prizes
- Pet Parade: Visitors can bring their well-behaved pets for a fun boardwalk parade
- Dock Dog Competitions: Watch dogs dive into the water in thrilling competitions
- Pumpkin Car Races: Handmade pumpkin cars raced by children and adults
Sunfest is designed as a family-friendly event, ensuring fun for attendees of all ages.
Special Events
- Footvolley Clinics & Demonstrations: Try a new beach sport or watch professionals showcase their skills
- Beach Bonfire: Saturday night gathering with live music and a festive bonfire
- Yoga Session: Sunday morning yoga on the beach for relaxation and wellness
These special events add variety to the festival and provide unique experiences beyond art and music.
Tips for Visitors
- Arrive Early: Parking and popular events fill quickly
- Dress Comfortably: Wear layers suitable for October weather and comfortable shoes
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water bottles or purchase beverages on-site
- Bring Cash: Some vendors may not accept cards
- Support Local Artists: Purchasing handmade items helps support the artisan community
Additional Facilities
- Restrooms: Available at multiple locations throughout the festival
- Seating Areas: Benches and shaded areas for rest
- First Aid: On-site medical assistance for emergencies
Conclusion
The Ocean City Sunfest 2025 promises a rich, immersive experience for art enthusiasts, music lovers, families, and tourists alike. Celebrating 50 years of creativity and community, this festival is a perfect way to enjoy the arts, sample delicious food, engage in unique activities, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Ocean City in the fall. Whether it’s exploring the artisan booths, dancing to live music, or participating in family-friendly events, Sunfest offers something for everyone.
