Ocean City's Winterfest of Lights Returns for 2026

Ocean City, MD - Winterfest of Lights is coming back to Ocean City for the holiday season. The light show will run at Northside Park from November 19, 2026, through January 2, 2027.

The park will be open every night from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. This year's show brings new displays along with the old favorites families look forward to each year.

The season starts with a free opening ceremony on Thursday, November 19, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. The OC Stars will perform, and then the Mayor will speak to the crowd.

After that, opening night sponsor Delmarva Power will flip the switch to turn on the lights. That moment marks the official start of the season.

The centerpiece this year is a 50-foot Christmas tree that plays music. The displays are also bigger and brighter than in past years.

Several new pieces have been added along the path. Visitors will find a snowflake arch, a beach ball they can walk through, and a giant lit-up cupcake display.

There is also a new Santa setup for family photos. Guests can grab a hot chocolate and warm up by the fire pit, and a gift shop on site will have holiday gifts for sale.

Fire and Ice Nights will take place every Friday and Saturday, except Christmas Day. On those nights, the festival tent will have live music and entertainment.

On December 4, 11, 18 and 26, 2026, ice carvers from the Ice Lab will be working in the Fire and Ice Village. The village will also have ice displays and bonfires.

Enchanted Evenings will offer premium carriage rides on November 30, 2026, and December 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 and 22, 2026. Carriages come in 2-seat, 6-seat and 12-seat sizes.

Each carriage ride includes special food options and a Santa photo gift. Reservations are required for these rides.

Pets are welcome every Wednesday night. Families can bring their dogs along to enjoy the lights.

Kids will have three rides to choose from. Two come from Trimper's Amusements, and the third is the Town's trackless train.

Surreys will also be available to rent for anyone who wants to bike around the path. An unlimited ride wristband costs $6 per child.

Santa will make his last visits through December 23, 2026. Starting December 26, 2026, a group of "Wonderland Characters" will walk the park and greet visitors.

There are two ways to welcome the new year. Fireworks will go off over the uptown lights at midnight on December 31, 2026, and a downtown celebration will be held at 7:00 p.m. on January 1, 2027.

On select dates, visitors can also take part in the Coca-Cola Giveaway Hunt. Winners can claim their prizes right at the ticket booth.

General admission is $6 plus fees for anyone 12 and older. Children 11 and younger get in free.