Do you feel that chill in the air? That means it’s almost autumn in Ocean City!
Since Labor Day has come and gone, we’ve now reached the unofficial beginning of the fall. But that doesn’t mean that your beach fun needs to end. There is so much to do around Ocean City, NJ, in September and October. Let’s take a look at some of the exciting events coming up soon!
September in OCNJ
Fall Cruisin’ The Boards Car Show – September 6th
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Fall Cruisin’ the Boards Classic Car Show and Street Rod Show! Come to the boardwalk to see classic vehicles featuring Fords, Chevys, Pontiacs, and Mopars all on display on the family-friendly Ocean City Boardwalk.
Ocean City Airport Festival & Parachute Pyrotechnic Show – September 13th
This annual festival takes place at the Municipal Airport at 26th & Bay Avenue. Attendees will see a ground display of unusual airplanes ranging from World War II planes to classics and warbirds. After the show, get ready for an unforgettable experience as Team Fastrax™ lights up the Ocean City sky! Highly trained and specially licensed skydivers will leap from 6,000 feet above the Beach & Boardwalk, igniting brilliant white and multicolored pyrotechnics as they soar in formation. The dazzling display will end with a precision landing on the 7th Street Beach.
Boardwalk Aerobatic Airshow – September 14th
Keep your eyes in the sky! The Boardwalk Aerobic Airshow takes place over the ocean between 6th & 14th Streets. This event will feature some of the best stunt pilots and aerobatic champions in the world, as well as military demonstrations.
OCNJ Half Marathon, 5k, & 10 Mile Non-Competitive Walk/Run – September 21st
Lace up your running shoes and join hundreds of runners in OCNJ! Ocean City’s premier race event showcases the Boardwalk, downtown, and ocean views along a fast and flat course. This event includes a 10-miler and a 5K. You can sign up now or wait until race day. More information can be found here.
MS City to Shore Ride – September 27th & 28th
Starting in Cherry Hill and ending in Ocean City, this bike race raises money for Point B, an organization committed to creating a world free of Multiple Sclerosis. You can choose to ride one or both days, then get ready for the beautiful blueberry fields of Hammonton and the world-famous Pinelands National Reserve before completing the ride by rolling into Ocean City. Donate or register on Bike MS’s website.
October in OCNJ
Boardwalk & Downtown Merchant “Discount Days” – October 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, & 13th
Boardwalk & Downtown merchants have teamed up for one of the island’s biggest sales of the year, and it’s happening from 6th Street to 14th Street on the boardwalk and Asbury Ave!
Fall Block Party – October 11th
Don’t miss Ocean City’s annual Falls Block Party from 5th to 14th Streets on Asbury Ave! Shop over 400 crafters, food vendors, enjoy live music, and take in autumn at the beach.
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of OCNJ – October 12th
Join over 5,000 walkers for the 18th annual OCNJ Making Strides – a celebration of courage & hope to end breast cancer. The Making Strides event will be filled with interactive tents for all ages, and many wonderful sponsors with info & giveaways. The 5k walk along the Boardwalk begins at 10:00 AM. Visit the website for more details.
John R. Elliott HERO Walk & 1 Mile Fun Run – October 19th
The John R. Elliott HERO Walk & 1-Mile Fun Run is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of safe and sober designated drivers, and to honor and remember those who have lost a loved one to a drunk driver. The event begins at 6th and Boardwalk and kicks off with the 1-mile run at 10:00 AM. The walk will follow the awards at 11:00 AM. Learn more and donate here.
Dog Days – October 25th & 26th
Leashed and well-behaved dogs will be permitted on the boardwalk from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturday and 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Sunday. All are welcome and encouraged to bring their furry friend. Activities for Saturday include dog-specific vendors along the boardwalk, photo-op stations on the Boardwalk, and the Humane Society of Ocean City’s “Pet of the Year” Announcement.
HSOC “Howl-O-Ween” Parade – October 25th
Contestants are encouraged to dress themselves and their pooch in silly Halloween costumes to celebrate Halloween. Registration begins at 2:00 PM at the Sports & Civic Center. The parade begins at 3:00 PM, and the route is from 6th to 14th Street on the Boardwalk.
Halloween Parade – October 30th
Get ready for a spooky night full of fun! Ocean City’s annual Halloween parade kicks off at 7:15 PM on Asbury Ave. from 6th to 11th Street. Dress in your best Halloween costume and enjoy the spirit of the holiday!
Other Fun Full Activities Near Ocean City, NJ
Golfing Near OCNJ
Golf enthusiasts will find autumn the perfect time to hit the links. With the summer heat subsiding, enjoy comfortable temperatures as you tee off at some of the area’s finest courses.
Atlantic County has several public golf courses nearby, including Heritage Links Golf Club, Ocean City Golf Course, Linwood Golf Course, McCullough’s Emerald Golf Links, and Twisted Dune Golf Club. These exciting spots are just a short drive away and offer stunning fall foliage as your backdrop.
Wineries near OCNJ
Fall is harvest season, making it an ideal time to explore local wineries. Take a short trip to nearby vineyards like Hawk Haven Vineyard, Natali Vineyards, or Balic Winery. Sip on locally crafted wines while taking in the picturesque autumn scenery. Many wineries offer special fall events, including harvest festivals and wine-pairing dinners.
Shopping and Dining in Downtown OCNJ
Ocean City’s downtown area takes on a special charm in the fall. Stroll along Asbury Avenue, where you’ll find an eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. With fewer crowds, you can leisurely explore each store, perhaps finding the perfect souvenir or unique gift. Don’t forget to stop by one of the local cafes for a pumpkin spice latte or apple cider to complete your autumn shopping experience.
Nature Walks Near OCNJ
Autumn is the perfect time to visit some of the area’s beautiful parks and trails. Check out one of our previous blogs for more information on local spots to hike, walk, or bike!
Stay at the Port-O-Call Hotel This Autumn
Just because the weather is cooling down doesn’t mean the fun is cooling down, too.
There are plenty of events happening in Ocean City in the fall to keep you entertained and having fun as the days grow shorter. Check out our special packages running in September and October to discover everything that Ocean City, NJ, and the Port-O-Call Resort have to offer!
For regular bookings, check our availability on our website. To learn more about our specials or for any other questions, give our reservation desk a call at 800-334-4546.
We can’t wait to see you this autumn!
