Ocean City's Ocean Bowl Turns 50: A Celebration Six Decades in the Making
Ocean City, MD - Ocean City is getting ready to mark a major milestone. The Ocean City Recreation and Parks department has announced a 50th anniversary celebration for Ocean Bowl Skate Park, set for Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Bayside Park on 3rd Street.
Ocean Bowl is not just any skate park. It holds the distinction of being the oldest municipal skate park in the United States. The park opened in June 1976, born from a grassroots effort by advocate Dorothy "Haystack" Marlowe and teacher Jack Crosby. At the time, skateboarding was banned on Ocean City streets, and the two pushed to create a safe, dedicated space for local skaters.
Five decades later, the park has grown from its original asphalt layout into an 11,000 square foot state of the art facility, expanded most recently in 2024. It is now recognized around the world as a landmark of skate culture.
The anniversary celebration will give attendees a look back at that history through a "living museum" featuring historic photographs and vintage skateboards. Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan will deliver a formal proclamation, and Ocean City native and professional skateboarder Roman Pabich, who skates for Tony Hawk's Birdhouse team, is scheduled to make a special appearance.
The event will also recognize the people who helped build and sustain the park over the years.
Heritage Awards will be presented to Skill Johnson, Marc Emond, Dave Messick, and Brad Hoffman. They will join 40th anniversary honorees the Marlowe Family, Jack Crosby, Mickey Carmody, Dave Powell, Mike Harrington, and Mark Hurley.
Beyond the ceremony, the afternoon includes live music, refreshments, and an open skate session. All participants must have a signed waiver on file and are required to wear a helmet. Skaters under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign their waiver.
The event is organized by the Recreation and Parks department in partnership with B-Rad Productions and the Ocean City skate community.
