The Spirit of the Season at Ocean City Senior Center Holiday Party

The halls of the Howard S. Stainton Senior Center were filled with more than just festive décor; they were packed with the heart and soul of the Ocean City community. The annual holiday party saw an amazing turnout, proving that when it comes to celebrating the season, our local seniors know how to do it with unmatched energy and style.

The day was a whirlwind of friendly competition and holiday cheer. The day started with a performance from the Ocean City Pops. The Ugly Sweater Contest brought out a dazzling array of tinsel and creative knitwear. Max Pakyz added a bushy white beard and shiny gold tinsel to his Santa-themed jacket to take home the top prize. The Gingerbread House Building Contest showcased the architectural (and frosting) skills of the center’s members. Pat Curcio’s gingerbread chicken cope, complete with a gumdrop roof, was this year’s big winner.  Beyond the laughter and the dusting of powdered sugar, guests were treated to a massive spread of door prizes, ensuring many went home with an extra gift under their arm.

While the holiday party is a seasonal peak, the Howard S. Stainton Senior Center remains constant year-round. Operating as a vital hub within the Ocean City Community Center, its primary goal is to empower and enrich the lives of older adults in our community. In a town known as “America’s Greatest Family Resort,” the Senior Center serves as the bedrock for the residents who have spent decades building the character of Ocean City. For the community, the center is a testament to the idea that aging is not a period of slowing down, but a chapter of meaningful engagement.

As the party wound down and the last gingerbread crumbs were cleared away, the message was clear: the Senior Center isn’t just a facility; it’s a family. A family that is growing stronger every year.