Ocean City Night in Venice 2026: Grand Marshals and Schedule
A preview of the 2026 Night in Venice bayfront boat parade in Ocean City, featuring grand marshals John Kruk and Randy Quaid, event times, and registration details.
The annual summer calendar on the bayfront is finalizing its schedule as one of the region's largest maritime celebrations prepares to launch. Ocean City has officially finalized its guest grand marshals for the highly anticipated 2026 Night in Venice bayfront boat parade, naming Philadelphia Phillies legend John Kruk and acclaimed character actor Randy Quaid to lead the seasonal festivities. The core theme for the annual celebration has been designated as "Stars, Stripes & Christmas Lights," engineered to honor America's 250th anniversary while seamlessly incorporating a traditional Christmas in July aesthetic.
Special Movie Screening and Interactive Q&A
Ahead of the evening boat parade, a special public screening of the classic holiday comedy "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" will take place at 12:00 PM at the Ocean City Tabernacle. This community gathering will be immediately followed by a live question-and-answer session with Randy Quaid on the Tabernacle stage.
Registrations are currently officially open for both the decorated boat parade entries and the traditional bayfront home decoration contests that line the waterways. Mayor Jay Gillian noted publicly that John Kruk perfectly embodies the patriotic and sports-focused spirit of the parade theme this year.
Parade Route and Spectator Viewing Timelines
What is the exact schedule for the Ocean City boat parade? The main boat parade is scheduled to start promptly at 6:30 PM on Saturday, July 25, 2026. The maritime route navigates directly along the busy bayfront, stretching from the Longport bridge area down to the southern canal entries near 34th Street.
To conclude the community celebration, a massive fireworks show is scheduled to launch over the bayfront water at approximately 9:30 PM, providing viewing opportunities for families gathered along the public docks and private decks. Spectators are encouraged to plan travel routes early due to high expected seasonal volume along Seaview Road and surrounding bay access points.
OCNJ Traditions
There’s something timeless about watching the boat parade from a crowded bayfront dock, toes near the water, and kids waving glow sticks as decorated hulls float past. In Ocean City, the energy of Night in Venice represents the absolute peak of summer community connection.
Micro-FAQ
What time does the Night in Venice boat parade start?
The parade is scheduled to begin at 6:30 PM on Saturday, July 25, 2026, starting near the Longport bridge.
Where is the Randy Quaid Q&A session being held?
The screening of "Christmas Vacation" and the live Q&A session will take place at 12:00 PM at the Ocean City Tabernacle.
When will the fireworks be launched?
The grand finale fireworks show is scheduled to launch over the Ocean City bayfront at approximately 9:30 PM.
Sources: City of Ocean City; Patch.com.
