News Release

For immediate release
October 6, 2008
Media Contact: Donna Abbott
410-723-8609 (office)

Ocean City’s Sunfest, Springfest earn national ranking

Ocean City, MD - The Town of Ocean City’s Sunfest has been rated by Sunshine Artist, “America’s Premier Show and Festival Magazine,” the number 4 traditional arts and crafts show in the nation. Springfest, the town’s spring season kick-off held in May, moved up 10 places to number 11, making it the highest-placing spring show on the magazine’s annual “200 Best” list.

Sunfest, one of Ocean City’s most popular and longest-running festivals, celebrates the start of the fall season in September. Last year Sunfest was ranked as number 5. The rankings are based on audit reports, reader surveys and anecdotal reports from participating exhibitors.

“We are very pleased to have Sunfest continue to receive this national recognition,” said Tom Shuster, Director of the Ocean City Recreation and Parks Department. “This is a tremendous honor for the town.”

According to one of the magazine’s “200 Best” voters, “Sunfest is by far the best contemporary craft show in the country. Easily the best…well organized, well promoted, well attended…”

Sunfest, which will be held at the Inlet Lot and beach next year on September 24-27, will celebrate its 35th year with top entertainment, hay rides on the beach, children’s activities and an array of unique arts and crafts. Springfest, Ocean City’s celebration of the start of the season, will be held May 7-10, 2009, at the Inlet Lot and beach.