Pajama Power: Ocean City’s “Earlier Than The Bird” Downtown Shopping Event is Saturday

Ocean City, NJ, is ready to welcome the holiday season this weekend with the return of its coziest and quirkiest tradition: the annual “Earlier Than The Bird” Downtown Shopping Extravaganza.

The popular event takes place this Saturday, November 22, from 8 a.m. to noon along the historic Asbury Avenue shopping district, inviting residents and visitors to jump-start their holiday gift buying the weekend before Thanksgiving.

In a tradition that has become a beloved Downtown Ocean City staple, shoppers are encouraged to arrive in their most comfortable (and often most elaborate) pajamas. The custom brings a fun, relaxed, and community-focused energy to downtown and creates a lively scene filled with families and friends ready to snag deals.

While everyone, pajama-clad or not, is welcome to take advantage of the early-bird specials, those who embrace the spirit of the event can win big. Free turkeys will be awarded to the best-dressed shoppers, and participants can also text in to win gift certificates and prizes from the downtown merchants.

Stores along Asbury Avenue, spanning from Sixth Street to 14th Street, will roll out the red carpet with a mix of deep discounts, special giveaways, and new seasonal merchandise.

The event ensures shoppers stay warm and energized:

• Free coffee will be offered at Jon & Patty’s (637 Asbury Avenue) and Ocean City Coffee Company (917 Asbury Avenue).
• The downtown area will be fully decorated for the season, featuring live entertainment and costumed characters to enhance the festive atmosphere.
• For added convenience, free parking will be available throughout the downtown area for shoppers.

The holiday celebrations don’t stop when the shopping ends. Shoppers can cap off their morning with a scenic ride:

• Free horse-and-carriage rides will be available immediately following the shopping extravaganza, from noon to 3 p.m. Boarding is located at Sixth Street and Asbury Avenue, offering a charming, old-fashioned way to enjoy the festive decorations downtown.

Ocean City’s “Earlier Than The Bird” celebration is championed by the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce as a major moment to celebrate community and support the town’s small, local businesses before the rush of the holiday season officially begins.