Ocean City First Night with Tots: How to See the Magic Before Bedtime

Ocean City’s First Night and First Day celebrations offer a rare kind of New Year’s magic that truly embraces the whole family, providing a safe, alcohol-free environment where even the youngest guests can join the party. For toddlers, the evening is a sensory delight, from towering ice sculptures and interactive photo booths to high-energy performances like “Pete the Cat” and the mesmerizing Magic of Chad Juros. With over 70 activities spread across 20 venues, the sheer variety ensures there is always something to capture a toddler’s curiosity, whether they are burning off energy on the indoor inflatables or marveling at the music-synchronized drone show. To truly maximize the fun, however, having a plan is essential; knowing exactly what is happening and when allows you to navigate the city seamlessly, ensuring you catch the “must-see” shows before bedtime meltdowns. By staying ahead of the schedule, you can transform a busy event into a stress-free series of memories that both you and your little ones will cherish.

🍦 Toddler Survival Tips

• The “Button” Rule: Children under age 2 are free, so you don’t need a button for the littlest ones!

• Gear & Clothing: Since it will be a chilly 28°F, bundle up with thermal layers and wind-resistant coats. Pro-tip: Bring a stroller with a weather shield and a heavy sherpa blanket to create a cozy “mobile base.”
• Snacks & Hydration: Pack high-energy snacks like fruit pouches and cheese sticks, and use an insulated sippy cup to keep drinks from getting too cold. A thermos of warm apple cider is always a hit!
• Safety & Comfort: Consider noise-canceling headphones if your toddler is sensitive to loud music. Light-up toys or glow sticks are also great for keeping them visible in the evening crowds.
• Logistics: The Ocean City High School and Community Center are your best bets for diaper stations. For travel, the free Jitney is stroller-friendly and will save you from long walks in the cold.

• Free Warmth: If the 28-degree weather gets too biting, hop on the free Jitney. Toddlers usually find the bus ride itself to be a fun adventure, and it keeps you warm while moving between venues.
• Snack Stations: The Sack O’ Subs at the High School or the Community Center Cafe are the easiest spots to grab a quick, kid-friendly bite without a long wait.
• The Early “Fireworks”: If midnight is too late, the Drone Light Show at Carey Stadium is a great alternative. It’s visually stunning, often earlier in the evening, and much quieter for children who might be sensitive to loud firework bangs.

🐧 Early Evening Itinerary (4:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

The Kickoff (3:45 PM @ Music Pier) Start the evening at the Music Pier for the official ribbon-cutting. It’s a great way to let the kids see the “big opening,” and you can get a first look at the First Night Ice Sculpture while it’s still fresh and pristine.

Pete the Cat (see times below). The OCTC often features toddler-appropriate performances like “Pete the Cat.” These shows are designed for shorter attention spans and high engagement.

Burn Off Energy: Inflatables & Magic (Ocean City High School / Gyms) The High School is a hub for high-energy fun.

• Inflatables: Let them bounce and play in a safe, indoor environment.
• Magician Chad Juros: His magic shows are perennial favorites that fascinate younger children without being too overwhelming.

Outdoor Ice Skating (Location: Nearby Stadium/Outdoor Rink) Even if they aren’t ready to skate on their own, the music and the sight of the outdoor rink are magical for toddlers. It’s a great spot for a family photo.

Interactive Photo Booths (Community Center & Civic Center) Toddlers love seeing themselves on screens. Pop into one of the photo booths at the Community Center or Civic Center for a free physical or digital souvenir of their first First Night.

🐱 Pete the Cat

Performances by the Ocean City Theatre Company (OCTC) are high-production and high-energy. These are held at the Ocean City High School Auditorium.

• Showtimes: 4:00 PM, 5:00 PM, and 6:00 PM.
• Toddler Strategy: Since “Pete the Cat” and the first Magic Show often start at the same time (4:00 PM), I recommend doing Pete the Cat first, then heading to the 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM magic show just down the hall.

🪄 The Magic Show: Chad Juros

The magic shows are held at the Ocean City High School (usually in the auxiliary gym or classrooms) to accommodate large family crowds. There are typically three or four sessions to choose from:

• Showtimes: 4:00 PM, 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 7:00 PM.
• Tip: The 4:00 PM show is usually the busiest as families with toddlers arrive first. If you can wait until the 6:00 PM set, it’s often a bit easier to find a seat near the front.

⛸️ Other Key Toddler Times

• Official Ribbon Cutting: 3:45 PM (Music Pier) — Great for seeing the “big scissors” and the ice sculpture.
• Harlem Wizards (Basketball Fun): 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 7:00 PM (High School Gym). Even if they don’t understand basketball, the music and comedy are great for keeping them engaged.
• Drone Light Show: 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM (Carey Stadium).
  • Pro Tip: The 8:00 PM show is the “Toddler Midnight.” It syncs to music and is much less scary than the midnight fireworks if your little one is sensitive to loud noises.

🌊 New Year’s Day for Tots

If you stay over, don’t miss the First Day Shopping Extravaganza on Asbury Avenue. While you shop the sales, the kids can enjoy the fresh air. If they are brave (and well-bundled), they’ll love watching the “silly grown-ups” jump into the ocean during the First Plunge at 2:00 PM.

Happy New Year from our family to yours.