Packed Boardwalk, Busy Downtown: Merchants Celebrate Successful Holiday Weekend

There’s nothing quite like the first big weekend of summer in Ocean City. The irresistible scent of boardwalk fries wafting through the air, and the happy chatter of visitors filling the streets, it’s the moment the town comes alive. Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start to tourist season at the Jersey Shore, and the 2025 season is off to a promising start in Ocean City.

Wes Kazmarck, president of the Boardwalk Merchants Association and owner of the Surf Mall, could feel the energy. “The Boardwalk was packed,” he said with a smile. “It was an excellent start to the 2025 season. The weather was perfect, and everyone seemed super excited to be back at the shore.”

Though the weekend brought sunny skies, cooler temperatures kept many visitors off the beach and onto the bustling Boardwalk instead. Kazmarck noted, “It wasn’t super warm on the beach, which made for an awesome day to walk the Boardwalk and shop. The daytime was definitely the busiest. The nights were good, but daytime brought the biggest crowds.”

Last year had set a high bar, with record-breaking business for many merchants. While this year didn’t quite reach those heights, it came very close. “Last year was a record breaker for many of us,” Kazmarck reflected. “I don’t think it was quite that good, but outside of 2024, this was probably one of the best.” He was quick to credit the town’s loyal visitors for helping make the weekend such a success. “This past weekend showed that it’s business as usual for America’s Greatest Family Resort. The 2025 season is shaping up to be another amazing one.”

That same energy carried over to Asbury Avenue’s downtown shopping district, where merchants reported a steady flow of customers throughout the entire weekend. Caitlin Quirk, president of the Downtown Merchants Association and owner of Bow Fish Studios and The Garb Collective, called it a “crazy good weekend.”

“For us downtown, it was perfect shopping weather—beautiful, but a bit too chilly for the beach,” she said. One trend that stood out to her this year was the increasing number of visitors who arrived early and extended their stay. “It was consistently busy Friday through Sunday. Even Monday stayed strong, which isn’t always the case,” she said. “It really felt like people turned it into a four-day weekend. The avenue was packed at 9 a.m. on Friday.”

She also noticed the downtown getting an early start each day. “I opened at 9 a.m. and saw people already out enjoying breakfast and coffees at their favorite spots. It was great energy.” For Quirk, this Memorial Day ranks among her top three. “Thanks for supporting your favorite beach town’s small businesses and shops,” she added. “It was really awesome to see so many people making the most of the weekend.”

There was a strong sense of gratitude for the safe and positive atmosphere. Jody Levchuk, owner of several iconic boardwalk spots—Jilly’s Arcade, Jilly’s Candy Factory, Jilly’s French Fry Factory, and Jilly’s T-Shirt Factory, noted that while business was slightly down from last year, the overall experience was excellent. “We weren’t as busy as last year,” Levchuk shared. “I’m thankful that our city remained safe and our guests had a great experience while visiting.” He was quick to praise the efforts of local law enforcement. “The OCPD did a first-class job keeping the Boardwalk safe and enjoyable for everyone.”

With Memorial Day Weekend in the books, merchants and residents alike are looking ahead to the rest of the summer season with optimism. If this weekend was any sign, Ocean City is poised for another standout season. One full of tradition, community spirit, and plenty of seaside fun.