Holiday Weekend Festivities Planned In Ocean Pines

BERLIN — The Ocean Pines Association invites area residents to celebrate Independence Day at the community’s popular holiday events.

The day will kick off with the 5th Annual OPA Freedom 5K Run at 8 a.m. at the South Gate Pond. Participants are encouraged to wear red, white and blue at this family-friendly event, which benefits “Athletes Serving Athletes.”

The cost is $25 with pre-registration or $35 the day of the event. The first 250 registered runners are guaranteed event T-shirts.  Registrations will be accepted online at Active.com or OceanPines.org, by calling the Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks Department at 410-641-7052 or in person at the Ocean Pines Community Center at 235 Ocean Parkway.

The all-American fun will continue at the Sports Core property with the annual 4th of July Celebration held from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.  The event will feature a DJ, water slides, carnival games, refreshments and more.  Waterslide wristbands for unlimited rides will be sold for $6; tickets may be sold for additional games and rides. The regular daily pool rates apply for those wishing to swim.

This year, the holiday will be capped off with the opportunity to watch fireworks displays at two locations. The Yacht Club Pool deck, with a view of the Ocean City fireworks, will open at 6:30 p.m. and the Tiki Bar will be available for drink purchases. The cost is $5 per person for deck seating only; swimming will not be allowed at this event.

The Ocean Pines Association will also provide its annual fireworks display at Showell Park on Racetrack Road.  The display will begin shortly after dark.  Recommended viewing locations are Showell Elementary School, the Community Church at Ocean Pines, Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School and The Pavilions.  The Community Church will be selling refreshments and free parking will be available.

These events, sponsored by Sandpiper Energy and Avery Hall Insurance, are open to the public.  In the event of inclement weather, the Freedom 5K Run, celebration and fireworks will be held on July 5.

For more information, call the Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks Department at 410-641-7052.  Information regarding additional recreational programs is available at OceanPines.org.