Commemorative Events & Experiences in Ocean City
Historic Experiences
Ocean City and its nearby towns offer a number of remarkable opportunities for learning about the region’s earlier times. Below is a handful of top attractions and places in the area offering rich history experiences.
Maritime heritage runs deep in Ocean City, and there’s no better place to dig back into the town’s history than by viewing exhibits and displays at the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum, which is housed is one of the town’s oldest buildings (1891). Located in the recently restored building belonging to the former Bank of Ocean City, the Museum of Ocean City is another great place to gain insights about the town’s local history, with a wider scope beyond its shores.
A short drive from Ocean City, Berlin is a fabulous place to experience. Garnering recognition as a charming small town, Berlin’s historic downtown is home to Victorian buildings and its interesting character is on full display throughout the area. The historic Calvin B. Taylor House Museum, which offers a variety of events throughout the year, makes a great itinerary addition.
Salisbury also makes for a delightful day trip from Ocean City. Poplar Hill Mansion is another historic house museum filled with captivating stories of the past and well-worth a visit. In honor of the 250th milestone anniversary, throughout 2026 it is holding a lecture series on the second Sunday of each month highlighting early history of the U.S.
With 2026 marking our America’s Semiquincentennial, there’s no better time than now for exploring the history and heritage of our nation’s towns. During your visit, keep a watch for a variety of 250th anniversary-related experiences, events and themes occurring throughout the region, both in and around Ocean City, Maryland.
Below are some of the key commemorative events happening in 2026.
June 14: The American Revolution Screening at the Taylor House
An evening featuring a free music performance and a screening of Ken Burns’ “The American Revolution.” Calvin B. Taylor House Museum, Berlin.
July 4: July 4th Fireworks
Don’t miss Ocean City’s celebration of Independence Day and the nation’s 250th anniversary with fireworks displays at two locations: Downtown at N. Division Street Beach and uptown at Northside Park on 125th Street.
July 4: Fun Old Fashioned Fourth of July
This family-friendly celebration commemorating the 250th anniversary will occur at Salisbury City Park and feature live music, food, games and many more festivities.
PoplarHillMansion.org/America250
July 4: Assateague State Park’s Annual
4th of July Celebration
Celebrate the holiday by joining a bike parade and other festive activities at Assateague State Park in Berlin.
DNR.Maryland.gov/Pages/MD-260-Calendar.aspx
July 5: Stars and Stripes Fest
Head to the Crisfield City Dock for this annual festival at Crisfield City Dock.
July 17: Third Friday MD 250
Enjoy live music at Salisbury’s Third Friday concert with a MD 250 theme.
July 24-26: Somerset County Fair
Join this year’s fair, which will have a 250th theme. Somerset County Civic Center, Princess Anne.
Sept. 27: America250 Quilt Show
A non-juried show displaying America-themed quilts made by local and regional quilters. Poplar Hill Mansion, Salisbury.
PoplarHillMansion.org/America250
Dec. 6: Poplar Hill Mansion Yuletide Open House
Guests are invited to come see Poplar Hill Mansion decorated for the holidays with a “Spirt of America” theme.
