When it comes to the Fourth of July, most Americans look forward to dusk when the fireworks light up the sky, but while we love the annual fireworks’ displays, there’s still an entire weekend of holiday fun to be had. If you’re looking to take advantage of summertime fun on the Eastern Shore this weekend, we’ve got you covered. We decided to compile a list of 10 of our favorite activities that are sure to put you in the patriotic spirit as you celebrate Eastern Shore style.

1. Beach it in Ocean City:

It seems like the obvious choice, right? Well that’s because it is. Ocean City boasts some of the best beaches on the East Coast and what’s more, they’re free! Spend all weekend soaking up the sun on one of our pristine beaches while cooling off in the ocean. After the beach, head to the boardwalk for a late lunch or early dinner and stroll the boards south for the fireworks show.

2. Spend the day at Assateague:

Make a whole day/night out of it! Wake up early and drive to our beautiful national or state parks. Pack a cooler of beverages, hot dogs, hamburgers, watermelon and s’mores while enjoying a day full of all-American family fun. Spend all day on the beach, plan a cookout before the fireworks start and then camp outside with the ones you love most. Don’t forget the bug spray!

3. Go Shopping – Take Advantage of the Holiday Deals:

Believe it or not, July 4th is a day for great sales at some of your favorite stores. Here on the Eastern Shore we are lucky enough to have two outlet malls, one in West Ocean City and one in Rehoboth…and both are offering irresistible deals! Buy something red, white, and blue to get ready for a patriotic night out on the town.

4. Take a Day Trip:

The July 4th holiday weekend is an excellent excuse to travel! We have so much going on this side of the Bay Bridge that you don’t have to go far. Try St. Michaels or Chestertown and experience their Fourth of July celebrations. Each town celebrates differently, so book a hotel, pack a bag and head somewhere new you for a change!

5. Boating (safely of course):

Other than the beach, boating comes in as a close second for most popular Fourth of July activities. If you have a boat, look no further than the sandbar right in the bay in the front of Hooper’s Crab House. Park there and spend a day full of clamming and relaxing in the middle of the bay. Don’t pack up when the sun starts to set either, anchor out and watch the fireworks right from the water! There really is no better view. Don’t have a boat? No problem. There are plenty of pontoon boats and Jet Ski rental businesses all around town.

6. Go Parasailing!:

Have you been looking for an excuse to finally go parasailing? July Fourth is it! Watersport companies all over the area are highly trained to safely take you 800 ft. in the air and see Ocean City from a bird’s eye view! It is definitely an experience you don’t want to miss.

 7. Holiday Happy Hours:

Bike to one of the many outdoor bars around town and celebrate America’s independence with your friends! There is no better way to relax then by drinking a cold one bayside and looking forward to a long weekend. Many places will have specialty drinks related to Fourth of July along with killer happy hour specials

8. Enjoy America’s Most Beloved Sport…Baseball:

Conveniently, our local minor league team the Shorebirds have a game scheduled on July Fourth right before the fireworks are set to start. Come out and support them as they take on Lakewood at the Arthur W. Perdue Stadium on Route 50 at 6:35PM. There is nothing more American than going to a baseball game, eating peanuts and drinking a beer!

9. Take a Brewery Tour

With the ever popular micro-brewery trend, Coastal Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Maryland have an abundance of local breweries to explore. Take a tour of Ocean City Brewing Co., Dog Fish Head, Backshore Brewing Co., Lazy Lizard Brewing Co., Burley Oak, Evo, Fin City and more! It’s a great way to see what it’s all about and enjoy some great beer!

10. Plan a Cookout at Home

Don’t feel like dealing with the crowds or long waits at area restaurants? Stay home and enjoy a laidback, lazy day with your family. Plan a cookout, hang outside, and experience what Fourth of July is really all about. Enjoying the outdoors, the comforts of home, American pride, and the people we love are just a few of the things that make this holiday so special.

And above all else, be safe this holiday weekend!!