Ocean City Officially Opens Summer 2025 with the Business Persons Plunge and Unlocking of the Beaches

With sun-kissed skies, salt in the air, and summer just around the corner, hundreds of excited spectators gathered Friday afternoon on 9th Street beach and along the Music Pier for one of the town’s most beloved traditions: the Business Persons Plunge and the ceremonial unlocking of the beach.

As the Ocean City High School marching band serenaded the crowd with high-energy tunes, the buzz of the crowd was contagious.  Everyone was ready to welcome another summer season in “America’s Greatest Family Resort.” Local legend Shelly the Seashore Mermaid (a.k.a. “Underdog”) even made an appearance.

Mayor Jay Gillian took to the stage with pride, thanking the community for showing up and reminding everyone of what makes Ocean City so special. “This is what it’s all about,” he said. “The people, the beach, the memories we’re about to make.”

Then came the moment everyone was waiting for. With a warm smile and an even warmer welcome, local historian and Ocean City Beach Patrol alum Fred Miller officially unlocked the beach for the 2025 season. A big cheer erupted from the crowd as he turned the symbolic lock, signaling that summer had officially begun.

After the ceremony, local business owners, dressed in suits and other wacky beach gear, took the traditional plunge into the chilly Atlantic in what’s become a signature mix of Ocean City pride and good-humored fun.

With the beach officially open and the sun shining down, there’s no doubt—summer 2025 is here, and it’s going to be one for the books. See you on the sand!