Ride the Creative Wave: The Annual Art of Surfing Festival Comes to Ocean City This Weekend
Prepare to witness the ideal blend of seaside culture and artistic creativity. The Annual Art of Surfing Festival is taking over the renowned Ocean City Music Pier this weekend. The festival begins on Thursday evening, July 30, 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, and continues Friday, July 31, and Saturday, August 1, noon – 10:00 pm.
Curated by local artist Aaron “Bogy” Bogushefsky, the festival has a long history of transforming the historic venue into a lively gallery that highlights the distinctive, free-spirited culture of South Jersey’s surf community.
What to Expect
Whether you are a lifelong wave-rider, an art collector, or just down at the shore for the weekend, this completely free family event offers something for everyone.
- Original Artwork & Photography: Explore a wide selection of ocean-inspired fine art, photography, sculptures, paintings, and coastal jewelry crafted by some of the region’s most talented artists.
- Meet the Makers: An essential part of the event offering the opportunity to connect directly with the artists. You can listen to the stories behind their works, explore their creative methods, or buy a custom piece to add a touch of the ocean to your home.
- Locally Shaped & Classic Boards: Surf purists can enjoy a beautiful selection of handcrafted, locally shaped surfboards at the pier. This offers a rare chance to appreciate the art and craftsmanship behind creating the ideal board. Additionally, vintage surfboards and rare memorabilia will be exhibited, providing a nostalgic glimpse into surf history across various decades.
- Live Soundtracks: A surf festival isn’t complete without great music. A diverse lineup of regional bands will deliver the ideal rhythmic backdrop as you explore the exhibits.
Festival Schedule & Music Lineup
Thursday, July 30 (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
- 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Going Rogue kicks off the weekend’s festivities with high-energy tunes.
Friday, July 31 (12:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
- 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Catch Coastal High, bringing their signature sun-soaked, rhythm-driven, reggae-adjacent sound to the afternoon crowd.
- 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM: The evening wraps up with the soulful blues, rock, and reggae grooves of the LNJ Band (LNJ Sessions).
Saturday, August 1 (12:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
- 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Keep the weekend vibes going with an afternoon set from Polaroid Fade.
- 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM: Head High takes the stage to bring the festival to an epic close.
Plan Your Visit
Admission: Free for all ages!
Location: Ocean City Music Pier (825 Boardwalk & 8th Street, Ocean City, NJ)
If you want an inside look before heading up the boardwalk, or if you’re looking for vendor profiles and previews of the featured artists, make sure to visit their official Instagram page.
Grab your friends, take a stroll off the beach, and join the celebration of local surf history, art, and rhythm!
