Halloween Treat

Happy Halloween!  Can't wait to head home to enjoy my version of a Halloween Treat!


Candy Corn Martini
1/2 cup candy corn
1 1/2 cups good vodka
2 ounce Triple Sec
Fresh Lemon juice (1/2 lemon works)
Candy corn garnish
Colored Sugar

Combine candy corn and vodka in an airtight jar (I used an old mason jar) Set aside for at least 3 hours in the fridge (already cold for when your ready to make your treat)

Combine 4 ounces of your pre-made candy corn vodka, 2 ounce triple sec, lemon juice and shake. Sugar rim of glass with colored sugar, strain drink into martini glass, throw in a few candy corns for garnish. Makes two delicious Halloween Treats!

(Drink recipe adapted from the Food Network)

Halloween Weekend

It's finally Halloween weekend - the area is filled with fun events for the next few days.

Tonight, we'll be checking out Berlin for their Ghost Hayride Tour.

Tomorrow day, if the weather permits (no snow please!) there is either the Rehoboth Sea Witch Festival or Berlin's first ever Funky Thriller Halloween.  Tomorrow at 4pm the town will offer events for the whole family.  Haunted Hayrides will continue, plus a kids' costume parade, adult costume contest and plenty of games.  There will also be some funky dance music - and I've heard rumors of a flash mob?

Tomorrow night is also HalloWine in nearby Whaleyville.  Our four local wineries on the shore will be there offering tastings, plus plenty of activities for children.

If you're interested in the Bar Scene, be sure to stop by Seacrets tomorrow night for their annual costume party. There's always some very cool costumes, top prize is a trip for Jamaica for two!  Fager's will also host a costume party with a chance to win $500 in cash! A few other bars around town will also be offering costume parties and prizes.   Pretty much everyone is ready and rearing for a fun weekend.

Be safe, and enjoy all the events!

Check out ShoreBread for a few other fun events going on nearby

Halloween Weekend

It's finally Halloween weekend - the area is filled with fun events for the next few days.

Tonight, we'll be checking out Berlin for their Ghost Hayride Tour.

Tomorrow day, if the weather permits (no snow please!) there is either the Rehoboth Sea Witch Festival or Berlin's first ever Funky Thriller Halloween.  Tomorrow at 4pm the town will offer events for the whole family.  Haunted Hayrides will continue, plus a kids' costume parade, adult costume contest and plenty of games.  There will also be some funky dance music - and I've heard rumors of a flash mob?

Tomorrow night is also HalloWine in nearby Whaleyville.  Our four local wineries on the shore will be there offering tastings, plus plenty of activities for children.

If you're interested in the Bar Scene, be sure to stop by Seacrets tomorrow night for their annual costume party. There's always some very cool costumes, top prize is a trip for Jamaica for two!  Fager's will also host a costume party with a chance to win $500 in cash! A few other bars around town will also be offering costume parties and prizes.   Pretty much everyone is ready and rearing for a fun weekend.

Be safe, and enjoy all the events!

Check out ShoreBread for a few other fun events going on nearby

Hogettes Coming to Town!

If I'm going to blog about the Raven's event last week, I clearly have to blog about the Redskins Tailgate this weekend!  Especially since both are our 'hometown' Maryland teams... and neither seems to be playing all that well (a given for one of them).

This Sunday at BJ's on the Water on 75th St. and the Bay, the famous Redskin Hogettes will be joining us to cheer on the team as they play the Buffalo Bills.  The tailgate will feature an old fashioned Bull and Oyster Roast, with all the goodies!  Party starts at 1pm and goes until the end of the game (game starts at 4pm).  Happy Hour drink prices will be available all night.  The tailgate is available for just $25 a person.  As a bonus, since it's Halloween come dressed as your favorite NFL star!  The Hogettes will be the judges, I'd say you could probably sway the vote if your dressed as a Redskin.

Monday, Trick or Treat?

In the past there's been a few nights that the annual Halloween 'Trick or Treat' event has been changed to accommodate various schedules.  I've never completely understood the reasoning behind changing Trick or Treat to any other night besides Halloween night, October 31.  I suppose some reasoning was that children would be staying up late on a school night... but isn't that half of the tradition?  Provided parents ensure safety, it's a fun night for the kiddies.  Yes, perhaps they'll stay up a little later than a regular school night, but that's what making memories is all about.

I'm happy to report that this year, Halloween 'Trick or Treat' in Ocean City will be on Halloween Night, October 31st.   Children are invited to start their neighborhood tours at dusk,  while nearby Berlin encourages children to Trick or Treat from 5 -7 pm since some neighborhoods can get very dark without street lights.   Our own Ocean City Outlets encourages children to stop by from 4 - 6 pm on Monday Night to receive a treat from some of the Mall's vendors.   Important to note, nearby Ocean Pines does not encourage Trick or Treating.

Remember to stay safe this Halloween!  This is important for all parents, children and drivers!  Parents, make sure to stay close to your children, carry a flashlight and emphasis safety habits.  Drivers, be on the look out and slow down!

Check out our Ocean City Police Department's blog for more safety tips this Halloween

HalloWine & SeaWitches

If your looking for something to do this weekend, you're in luck!  Nearby Whaleysville and Rehoboth, DE will be hosting two great events, perfect for families and folks of all ages.

Costa Ventosa Winery, located just a short drive from OC proper in Whaleysville will be hosting their first ever HalloWine Festival.   Our 'Four on the Shore' wineries will be represented (Bordeleau, Fenwick Wine Cellars, Costa Ventosa and Layton's Chance) offering tastings and selling wine.

HalloWine will occur on Saturday from 5 - 10 pm.  The winery will be transformed into a haunted vineyard with a bonfire, hayrides, live music, face painting and more!   Be sure to don your Halloween threads for there will be a costume contest.  Food, smores' and treats will be available plus complimentary wine tasting for the big kids.    The best part is that a portion of the proceeds from this 'Spooktacular' event go to benefit the PJ Aldridge Foundation.   Discounted tickets are in advance at the Wineries, however you can also purchase your ticket at the door, children are just $12 and those over 21 are $25.

Less than an hour away, Rehoboth Beach, DE will host their annual Sea Witch Halloween & Fiddler's Festival.  A full weekend event, with events for every age.  There will be live music,  history tours, movies, scavenger hunts, a 5k walk/run ... that should give you an idea how extensive the list of events is.  Events run from Friday - Sunday, during the town's Fiddler's Fest (which is on Saturday from 1 - 6 pm at the Convention Center).  Many of Rehoboth's shops and restaurants will join in for the festival - offering activities, discounts and specials. Expect delicious food, fun events, art and treats throughout the weekend.

The Sea Witch is best known for it's fabulous Costume Parade.  The parade starts at 11 am on Saturday and makes it's way down Rehoboth Ave. towards the beach.  Expect a large mass of people, dressed in some frightening and hysterical costumes, in addition there will be floats, bands and more.   Following the Parade, you'll have a chance to go on a horse drawn wagon ride, make a scarecrow, and play old fashioned beach games such as the Pumpkin Dash.  If you've got the stamina sign up for the Sea Witch Hunt, of it hand-eye coordination's your thing try your hand at the Broom Tossing Contest.

Don't forget Trick or Treat, starting at 6:30 pm on Saturday visit local merchants for your Halloween Treats. Even Fido gets to join in on the fun, on Sunday at 1pm, bring him along in his best Halloween Costume for the Pet Contest Parade!

Full List of Events
2011 Sea Witch Program

Haunted Paddle Tours and Ghoulish Bon Fires

It should be a great Autumn Eastern Shore weekend, weather is expected to be sunny and in the 70s with a cool breeze, of course dropping abit at night (wear your sweaters!).

If you're looking to get into the Halloween spirit and to enjoy some of our beautiful fall scenery, Ayers Creek Adventures is hosting a Haunted Paddle tonight and tomorrow.

This will be a great event for all, their paddle tours are wonderful for experienced kayakers and those just starting off.  They'll make sure to stay at your speed.

Paddle tours will depart at 5, 6:30 and 8 o'clock.  Warm up before and after by their bonfire, which will burn from 5 - 10 pm.  They'll have Hot Dogs, Smores, Cider, Cocoa and other yummy treats for sale as well.

The best part about this event, it goes to benefit some great causes!  Proceeds will be donated to the Maryland Coastal Bays Program and Habitat for Humanity Worcester County.

While on the tour be on the look out for Marsh Monsters!

For more information, visit Ayers Creek Adventures   Reservations are suggested, call 442-513-0889.

Ravens Weekend at the Beach!

This weekend is for you Ravens Fans, locals and visitors alike!  Head on over to the Castle in the Sand this weekend for their Rockin' Ravens Weekend.

This Saturday, Ravens fans are invited to gather at the Castle in the Sand's beach bar, Coconuts for an Eastern Shore Tailgate Party.  The event will be run from 5 - 8 pm, all are welcome to enjoy the festivities.  Expect beer specials, a bonfire and a pig roast!  BBQ chicken and all the trimmings will also be available. 

DJ Marcus, a Raven's favorite will be playing the tunes all weekend long!  Get our your purple for a Ravens Good Time.

Those without a reservation at the Castle can also join in the fun - adults are just $25 and kids are $12.  Cash Bar for all. 

Check out their flyer for more information

High Tide Music Fest 2012

I don't know how to control my excitement over this news.... I actually don't think I can control it, I'm ECSTATIC, STOKED! WHAT-HAVE-YOU THRILLED!!  This is seriously like a dream come true, I've talked about this being something OC should look into.... and it looks like they are finally getting their act together!  I strongly believe it's all thanks to the Dew Tour, it proved we can handle larger events.  It's about time we get some great music here, I'm pretty over our standard Springfest and SunFest line ups.

The event will be for two days in early June, and will run from noon - 11pm each day. There will be three stages set up on the beach, similar to how the Dew Tour was setup.  The Town Council has already unanimously approved Founders Entertainment to go ahead with the planning.  Co-founder of Founders, Tom Russell has promoted Bonnaroo and The Governor's Ball in NY.

According to DelmarvaNow, the group is looking into an wide variety of musicians, to appeal to all age groups.  To name just a few, Adele, Paul Simon, Tom Petty, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Mumford & Sons, The Roots and Florence + The Machine.   Apparently the Town Council will have final approval of the artists booked.... be good to us please!   Tickets are expected to run around $75 - $90 for a full day.

Who's ready.... because I can't wait!

Tasers coming to OC

I came across an article in one of our local papers, DelmarvaNow that Ocean City Police will now be equipped with Stun Guns.  Apparently the Ocean City council met a few weeks ago and unanimously approved the Tasers.

For those unaware, Tasers are weapons that when shot will attach onto their victim and expel a powerful electrical charge which is capable of paralyzing a person. Although not always deadly, there has been much controversy over stun gun's affects.   Apparently, nearby area law enforcement are already using these, such as Snow Hill and Worcester county sheriff offices.

I'm not sure how I feel about these, there's pros and cons on both sides of the argument.    However,  I do feel that some of our local police, especially those that are recruited for summer employment are young, inexperienced and often over zealous (this DOES NOT apply to all!).   It worries me that their use will be abused in Ocean City.  I just hope the Tasers are placed into the proper hands of those that fully understand their risks.

What do you think?

Read the full article at DelmarvaNow

Spooktacular Del-Mar

Thanks to our wonderful location on the Eastern Shore, we have plenty of empty fields and historic towns to host a variety of 'Haunts' this Halloween season.

Here's a few nearby spooktacular events to check out

Berlin, MD - Ghost Tour Hayrides

For two weekends Historic Berlin, MD will be offering guided hayride Ghost tours through the town.  Although I've never been witnesses to a ghostly event, the town is known to have a few apparitions that walk amongst the living.  Sounds like a great event to learn more about the town's history... probably a few scary secrets most are unaware of.   Hayrides will be approximately a 1/2 hour long and will be narrated as you are pulled through the streets.  
Hayrides will begin at the corner of Pitts and Main Street on October 21, 22, 28, 29 and 30th; 6 - 8 pm.  $8.00 a person. Call 443- 783-1409 for more information
Berlin Chamber

Furnace Town - Furnace Fright/Ghost Hunt
Just a short drive from Ocean City is Furnace Town, a historic iron furnace site and now a Living Heritage Museum.  Furnace Town operated in the early 1800s, at one time employing hundreds of people.  The town's success was relatively short lived, and the majority of the people moved on to find other work, though a few stayed and it's been said their spirits still haunt the Historic site.
On October 22 families are welcome to the town to experience the history.  Children are welcome to dress up and join in the costume parade, there will be trick-or-treating with the local artisans on site, and crafts and games.  For the older kids, ghost stories and history of the town will be read.
At night, adults are welcome to join in the Ghost Hunt Walk which begins at 8pm.  Call 410-632-2032 for more information.
Furnace Town

Georgetown, DE - All Hallow's Revenge

About an hour out, Georgetown DE offers what appears to be the scariest of the Haunts in Del-Mar.  The location offers two bone chilling indoor spooks, plus a ghoulish walk through woods and a small town.  With a legend to go with the nightmare, it looks like this may be the scare of your life!
Friday - Sunday until November 5;  7pm - when the nightmares over?!?!
All Hallow's Revenge

Delmarva Discovery Center, Pocomoke, MD - Delmarva Haunting

In nearby Pocomoke, MD just off of the beautiful Pocomoke River resides the Delmarva Discovery Center. The center focuses on preserving our local cultural and natural heritage, a place of learning for visitors of all ages.  In honor of the 'spooky' season, they'll be transforming a the entire center into a 2 story Haunted Ghost Ship.  This event is not for the squeamish, or the sensitive hearts.  Recommended for adults and children 12 and up, head on out for a ghoulish evening of scares and screams!
October 26 - 29; 7-11 pm (if you're in line, you'll get in!)  
$10 per person, benefits go towards Atlantic General Hospital's Penguin Swim
Delmarva Haunting

Pemberton Historical Park, Salisbury, MD - Spooktacular 

Annually held at historic Pemberton Park, this event is geared towards children from 6 - 12.  Family friendly, children will enjoy crafts, pumpkin decorating, face painting, costume contests and more.  For those looking for a little more hocus pocus, enjoy frightening Eastern Shore Folk Tales and seeing some of the park's live reptiles.   Don't forget to bring your already carved pumpkin for the Carving Competition!
October 29; 7 - 9 pm
Pemberton Park

Parsonsburg - Haunted Forest

The Old Parsonsburg Firehouse will hold their annual Haunted Forest for two weekends this year.  The event always starts at dark, be prepared for a 'bumpy' hayride and a thrilling walk through.
October 21 & 22, 28 & 29 

Parsonsburg Firehouse

Frontier Town - Haunted Trail
This will be the first year our local Frontier Town will hold their Haunted Trail!  Located in West OC, just a 5 minute drive from OC proper.  The recreated Western town has been turned into a dreadful deserted nightmare.  Be prepared for ghastly surprises, perhaps a few gruesome sights!   I've been told the event is cautious of young children, so it really is an event for all ages.
October 22 & 29; 7pm
Frontier Town

Salisbury Zoo - Not So Scary Halloween Happenings
I think the name says it all!  This event is for children 10 & under and for anyone else who isn't up for the eerie.  Children are welcome to explore the zoo in costume.  Special events, games and candy tables will be set up through the zoo. Tickets are available in advance or at the gate.  Don't forget to come dressed the part, there will be a Halloween costume contest!
October 29; 1 - 4 pm
Salisbury Zoo

Happy Haunting!

Coastal Pumpkins

Despite my unrequited love of summer, I do have a soft spot for fall.  Especially for the gloriously warm fall days followed by cool breezy nights, the days that are perfect for a beach bonfire!   Regardless, while most are busy changing out their home decor to match the current season, I'm still dreaming of just a few more beach days.  Thus, I have an extremely hard time transitioning my beachy cool blues and aquas to rich and warm golden hues.  

I know many people that pull out all the stops... for every holiday.  I've always had a hard time with seasonal and Holiday decorating.  By the time my fall leaves and spooky Halloween decorations are out, I'm busy carving the turkey and mashing taters.  Have no fear... Santa Santa always sticks around long enough to give cupid a little kiss.  

Until today, I decided I was going to forget about the seasonal decor this year...  But then I came across some lovely ideas for seasonal decorating that will allow me to keep some of my 'beach' out. 

I love the starfish and pumpkin Cloche via Adventures in Decorating

Pumpkin wave, this could be painted too!  via Better Homes and Gardens

Completely Coastal posted a great article on painted blue pumpkins, I am simply in love with the idea.  They give just the right amount of 'autumn' without distracting from a coastal inspired house.  Below's my favorite of the pumpkins, I just love the twine wrapped stem.  I'm going to try these and some coral colored gourds!

I love the turquoise via Gracious Southern Living

Perhaps a little too 'Spooky' for my home this year, but I love the idea of merging the beach and Halloween 

via The Artfull Life

I can't wait to 'autumn-ize' my front door wreath.  I was thinking some leaves and perhaps a starfish to top it off... but this is just too cute, plus an great tutorial   

via The DIY Show Off

Happy Fall!  Good luck on your seasonal decor, let me know how it goes!  

OktoberFest at the Beach

I know Ocean City may not be on your radar of places to celebrate Oktoberfest, but this weekend we'll be celebrating with a bunch of events throughout the town.

The Convention Center will be hosting their 30th Annual Oktoberfest on Friday and Saturday from 11 am - 10 pm.  There will be polka dancers and bands, traditional German songs and folk dances performed by the Alpenrose Dancers.  Even if your German dancing's abit rusty, be sure to bring your dancing shoes because they'll teach you!   Don't worry if you're abit shy, there will plenty of German beer flowing!  Plus lots of contests and entertainment.  Don't miss out on the German grub, or the KnockWurst eating contest!

The Convention Center will also host an Oktoberfest Art and Craft fair, which will feature artist from near and far offering a variety of different works.  There will be German artist offering traditional German toys, and crafts. Plus lots of German goodies such as roasted nuts and apple strudel!  The fair will run from 11 am - 6 pm on Friday and Saturday.

Oktoberfest at the Convention Center: Vendor's and Events

Berlin will be hosting their first ever Oktoberfest this Saturday, on main street. Much like their other events, the town will close off the street in front of the Atlantic Hotel for the celebration.  The event runs from noon until 6 and will feature German music and entertainment.  The Cow Polkas will be in attendance to serenade us with a little western twang polka!  The Wanderers, an Um Pa Band, will also be performing.  The event will include a Beer garden with German style beers from local brewer Burley Oak.  Enjoy Pretzels, strudel, bratwurst and sauerkraut while your at the event.

More Information on the Event


This Sunday Macky's will open for their Oktoberfest, one of their last events for the season.  Tickets are just $30 for the event, which runs from 12 - 3 pm.  You can enjoy unlimited German fare and draft beers during the event.  Plus, you'll receive your very own commemorative Oktoberfest pint glass!

Buy your Macky's Oktober tickets online


Get out your Steins and be ready to party!