If you've never experienced Ocean City in December, it’s not just a shore town—it’s a winter wonderland. The whole downtown transforms with lights, decorations, and cheerful events perfect for families, couples, or friends looking for a cozy getaway.
Here’s a peek at what’s coming up this year:
Key Holiday Events
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Christmas in the Downtown – "Our Miracle on Asbury Avenue" (Nov. 28): Kick off the holidays with carolers, performances, festive decorations up and down Asbury Avenue (6th–14th St.), and a magical tree-lighting featuring Santa’s arrival on City Hall’s rooftop. OCNJ Daily+2Fox Real Estate+2
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Free Horse & Carriage Rides on various dates starting late November through December — a charming, nostalgic way to explore the decorated downtown. Boarding is at 6th & Asbury. Ocean City NJ+2Ocean City, NJ+2
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Santa Photos & Meet-and-Greets: On weekends starting Nov. 29, Santa will be downtown at Mark Soifer Park (9th & Asbury, 9–11 a.m.) and later outside the Music Pier (1–3 p.m.), even in a lifeguard boat — a uniquely Ocean City twist! Ocean City, NJ+292.7 WOBM+2
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Holiday Train Expo — Dec. 6 & 7, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at the Music Pier. Think model trains, festive displays, and a cozy indoor family activity that’s perfect for a winter weekend. Best of all: free admission. Ocean City, NJ+1
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Christmas Parade — Fri, Dec. 5 at 6 p.m. Asbury Avenue lights up with floats, bands, and holiday cheer, making for a memorable evening stroll. Ocean City, NJ+2Ocean City, NJ+2
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Weekend Festive Shopping & “Festive Fridays” — Extended shopping hours, carolers, and holiday treats as downtown merchants get in on the spirit. Great for gift shopping or stocking up on holiday souvenirs. Ocean City NJ+2Do The Shore+2
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First Night OCNJ — New Year’s Eve celebration with 70+ shows across 20+ venues around town, fireworks at midnight, and activities for all ages — a perfect way to ring in the new year. First Night OCNJ 2026+2First Night OCNJ 2026+2
Why Winter & Holiday Stays in Ocean City Are Special
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Festive but relaxed vibe: Unlike summer when the town is crowded and hectic, holiday season in Ocean City blends seaside calm with warm holiday cheer. Strolling the boardwalk or Asbury Avenue under twinkle lights — with fewer crowds and a slower pace — makes for a peaceful, cozy escape. Ocean City NJ+292.7 WOBM+2
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Fun for all ages: Whether you have young children, grandparents, or want a couples’ getaway, there are events for everyone — from Santa visits and carriage rides to train shows, parades, and New Year’s festivities.
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Unique shore-town holiday charm: Ocean City offers a distinct coastal-holiday vibe (Santa on a lifeguard boat! carriage rides along Asbury!) that sets it apart from typical winter destinations. 92.7 WOBM+2Ocean City NJ+2
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Easy pace + convenience: With many indoor and outdoor options close together — downtown, Music Pier, boardwalk — you can enjoy a festive outing without long drives or complicated scheduling (especially nice when traveling with kids).
Why You Should Book Your Holiday/Winter Break Stay With Us
At ocnjbeachrental.com, we’re more than just a rental listing — we’re your home base for a season full of holiday magic. Here’s why booking with us is a smart move:
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Perfect Location: You’ll be just minutes from downtown Asbury Avenue, the Music Pier, and the boardwalk — meaning you can join the festivities without fighting traffic or parking.
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Peaceful & Cozy Home Away From Home: After a day of holiday fun, return to a warm, comfortable space — ideal for relaxing, unwinding, or even cozying up by the fire with family.
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Make Lasting Memories: Hosting families all season long, we see the joy winter brings — laughing kids with Santa, couples having quiet dinners downtown, friends exploring the town on carriage rides. Booking early guarantees you a spot during this magical season.
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Flexible for Groups of All Kinds: Whether you want a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a friends’ reunion — our rentals are suited to various group sizes, so everyone’s comfortable.
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Start a New Holiday Tradition: Ocean City has so much to offer during the holidays. Booking with us is a chance to start a tradition — staying by the shore, attending holiday events, and making memories that last.
This holiday season, give yourself — and your loved ones — a gift: the magic of Ocean City at Christmas. With festive events, cozy vibes, and easy access to all the holiday fun, now’s the perfect time to book.
Book early — rentals fill fast! Make Ocean City part of your holiday traditions this year.