Art of Surfing Festival Returns to Ocean City

Ocean City’s nationally-renowned surfing community celebrates this weekend.

The Art of Surfing Festival celebrates its 15th anniversary Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The festival runs 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Thursday, and noon-10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Admission is free.

Ocean City’s Aaron Bogushefsky, an art teacher in the City’s School system, has done an amusing and original poster for the event, Ocean City Public Relations Director Mark Soifer said.

The poster will be for sale along with an array of surfing artwork from nationally acclaimed artists.

Paul Kosten will be signing his book “The Progressive Art of Body Surfing.” Signed copies of other books will also be available.

There will be live music from 7 p.m.-10 p.m. each night.

Local Lou will host a Yoga Surfing session at 4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

It will benefit the Heart of Surfing Organization that helps autistic children learn to surf and have fun. Cost is $10 per person. An exhibit of Surf Memorabilia will be presented by Bill Simon and there will be much more. For information call Steve Miller, (609) 744-3229.

Ocean City High School has won over 20 regional championships sponsored by the National Scholastic Surfing Association. Its team has competed several times in the nationals against some of the best surfers in the world including contingents from Hawaii.

Many surfing groups hold competitions and fundraisers in Ocean City.

The City accommodates enthusiasts by designating surfing areas at the 7th and 16th street and Waverly beaches.

There are three shops in Ocean City specializing in surfing: 7th Street Surf Shop, Heritage Surf and Sport Shop and Surfers Supplies.