Ocean City Hosts Nature & Environment Family Fun Day Feb. 14

Ocean City will once again turn Presidents Day weekend into a hands-on learning experience with the return of the Nature & the Environment Family Fun Day, hosted by the Ocean City Environmental Commission on February 14, 2026. The free event runs from 9:30 AM to noon at the Ocean City High School cafeteria on Atlantic Avenue and is open to families of all ages.

Now in its seventh year, the event has grown into one of Ocean City’s most well-attended winter programs, drawing more than 850 visitors last year, according to city organizers.

What to Expect at the Event

The Family Fun Day is designed as a walk-through eco-festival, with interactive stations spread throughout the cafeteria. This year’s program includes:

• Live birds of prey presented by East Coast Falcons

• Small zoo animals from the Cape May County Zoo

• Touch tanks and marine education from The Wetlands Institute

• Recycling-themed arts and crafts for children

• Environmental demonstrations focused on conservation and sustainability

Each station is staffed by local organizations and educators who specialize in hands-on learning rather than lectures, making the event accessible even for younger children.

Local Organizations and Educational Highlights

Several well-known regional groups will be participating, offering practical demonstrations and take-home information:

• NJ Audubon will focus on native bird species

• The Ocean City Garden Club will offer pollinator gardening tips and seed giveaways

• Rutgers Cooperative Extension will highlight the history and cultivation of the Jersey Tomato

• AmeriCorps and ACT Engineers will present watershed and shellfish habitat protection efforts

• Utility partners including South Jersey Gas and Atlantic City Electric will share energy-efficiency resources

Together, these exhibits reflect Ocean City’s broader emphasis on environmental education and stewardship.

Community Food Drive Component

In addition to educational programming, attendees are encouraged to bring a canned food donation for the Ocean City Ecumenical Council Food Cupboard. This element has become a consistent part of the event, pairing environmental awareness with community support during the winter months.

Why Families Keep Coming Back

The timing—mid-winter, family-friendly, and indoors—has helped the event become a Presidents Day weekend staple. Parents often use it as a way to break up the winter routine while giving kids something interactive and educational to explore.

The combination of wildlife encounters, crafts, and demonstrations means families can move at their own pace, spending more time at stations that spark interest.

Common Questions

Is there a cost to attend?
No. The event is free and open to the public.

Is it suitable for younger children?
Yes. Most activities are designed for elementary-aged children, but older kids and adults will also find value.

Do you need to register in advance?
No advance registration is required.

Sources: Ocean City Environmental Commission; OCNJ Daily; Patch