Mayor

December 24, 2025

Dear Friends,

I want to wish you all a Merry Christmas. I hope you have a wonderful holiday and get to celebrate with family and friends.

This is the time of year to reflect on how blessed we are to live in such a wonderful community. I want to thank everyone who makes Ocean City so special.

Our volunteers, veterans, churches and community organizations all work tirelessly to give back to our town. Our teachers, coaches and school leaders are doing a great job shaping the generation of young men and women who will lead us into the future. Ocean City’s business owners and employees work long and hard to provide our residents and guests with all the goods, services and memories that define Ocean City. And I want to thank the entire city team for all they do. They remain dedicated to improving every aspect of life in our community.

I’m looking forward to working with everyone and achieving more great things in 2026.

A list of winners and participating homes in our annual Holiday House Decorating Contest is available here, if you want take a tour of the colorful displays around town. Don’t forget to pick up your First Night buttons. They’re on sale now – online and at all of our welcome centers. The holiday trash and recycling schedule is available here.

Have a great weekend and remember to shop local. You can watch the newest “Inside City Hall” video here.

Warm regards,

Jay A. Gillian
Mayor

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Welcome to The City of Ocean City, New Jersey!

Ocean City is a town rich in history and a deep sense of community. Families have been vacationing in Ocean City for generations and many have made Ocean City their year-round home.

Our residents enjoy award-winning schools, world-class recreation facilities and outstanding municipal services from all city departments, including Police, Fire and Rescue, and Beach Patrol. Residents participate in activities for every age and interest including the cultural arts, music and theater as well as sports and recreation programs available at our many parks, playgrounds and city facilities. One of our local treasures is the Ocean City Community Center at 1735 Simpson Avenue, where families and individuals can enjoy the Ocean City Free Public Library, Ocean City Arts Center, Ocean City Historical Museum, Ocean City Aquatic and Fitness Center, and the Howard S. Stainton Senior Center under one roof.

The city also maintains and operates a municipal airport, 12-hole golf course, Aquatic and Fitness Center as well as the famed Ocean City Pops Orchestra.

Ocean City is also host to more than 200 family-friendly special events held year-round. Many of our events are popular family traditions, including the Night in Venice Boat Parade in July, the Baby Parade in August, our mile-long block parties in May and October, and our family-friendly First Night New Year’s Eve Celebration.

If you are vacationing in Ocean City, I know you’ll enjoy our seven miles of beautiful beaches and exciting Boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants and amusements. And be sure to visit our unique and charming downtown shops and restaurants located in the heart of town on Asbury Avenue.

I am truly proud to serve as mayor for this great community and hope you and your family enjoy your time in America’s Greatest Family Resort.

Jay Gillian, Mayor

Phone: 609-525-9333
Email: mayor@ocnj.us