OCEAN CITY, Md.- Music, food, crafts, and crowds returned to the Ocean City Inlet Thursday morning as the town’s 34th annual Springfest officially kicked off, drawing thousands to the shore for one of the most anticipated events of the season.
Running through Sunday, April 27, Springfest marks the unofficial start of the coastal town’s busy season. The free event features hundreds of vendors, live entertainment, and a wide variety of food and drink offerings.
For many, including longtime visitor Dave Cornelison, Springfest is a family tradition.
“My favorite part is all the different crafters,” Cornelison said. “Of course, my wife loves it, and my sister-in-law and husband—we always come together.”
Among the more personal offerings are custom-made fishing rods and pens created by George Neuberger, who began his business, Works of Art, after the passing of his uncle.
Inside the large festival tents, visitors can browse through countless handcrafted and unique items, from jewelry and clothing to wind chimes and home décor. Among the more personal offerings are custom-made fishing rods and pens created by George Neuberger, who began his business, Works of Art, after the passing of his uncle.
“So this is my Uncle Joe, and he would take me fishing when I was a kid,” Neuberger said. “Unfortunately, Uncle Joe passed away. But whenever I take this rod fishing, I’m still fishing with my Uncle Joe.” Neuberger now incorporates ashes of others’ loved ones into rods, offering a deeply personal way to remember and reconnect.
After shopping, festival-goers can sample an array of local and regional foods, from sweet funnel cakes to homemade jams and jellies. Live music is performed daily on two stages—one inside the main tent and another outside—bringing upbeat energy and dancing to Ocean City.
Live music is performed daily on two stages—one inside the main tent and another outside—bringing upbeat energy and dancing to the boardwalk.
Delmar Smith, a vendor who owns a dog-focused shop on the Ocean City Boardwalk, said the festival is more than just fun—it’s vital for small businesses.
“This is a really, really good kickoff for the season,” Smith said. “We look forward to it all off-season, especially since this last off-season was a little rough with the weather. So we’re really looking forward to a good weekend.”
With thousands in attendance, Springfest is also a boost for the local economy.
“Gotta bring in good money. Good for the economy. Good for the city. It’s a wonderful time,” Cornelison added.
Parking is available near the Inlet, and visitors are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the full experience. The festival opens at 10 a.m. daily and concludes Sunday.
Whether you’re shopping, eating, or just soaking in the sounds and sights of the boardwalk, there’s still time to catch the last days of this Ocean City tradition.
