OCEAN CITY, Md. - Whether lounging on the beach, strolling the boardwalk, or dining at local restaurants, thousands of visitors poured into Ocean City over Memorial Day weekend, offering an economic boost for local businesses.
Among the vacationers were Harry and Lydia Williams, who spent their holiday soaking in the sights, sounds, and sunshine. “We're just enjoying the boardwalk up and down,” Harry Williams said. “We're just sitting there having some bike rides, having some local food, having some beers, enjoying Memorial Day weekend and what it's all about.”
Ocean City’s boardwalk saw heavy foot traffic on during the weekend, and the momentum continued into Monday. Patty Soriano, owner of Soriano’s Restaurant near the boardwalk, said while the crowds started later in the day, business was busy. “It was a later start into the day,” Soriano said. “But it was a very good weekend for us. We did well, lots of people.”
Patty Soriano, owner of Soriano’s Restaurant near the boardwalk, said while the crowds started later in the day, business was busy.
Although she noted that the restaurant served more customers last Memorial Day weekend, she said crowds from events like Boardwalk Rock helped make up the difference.
For many, the weekend was not just about relaxation, but also remembrance. “If it wasn't for the people that were fighting for our freedom and our rights, we wouldn't have the right to be here having a good time,” Harry Williams said. “Because of the lives that were sacrificed — because of them.”
As Memorial Day weekend comes to a close, Ocean City businesses are preparing for the start of summer.