Night in Venice Kicks Off With Boardwalk Parade July 13 in Ocean City

Ocean City, NJ -- Ocean City’s annual Night in Venice celebration is next week.

Events kick off with the Miss Night in Venice Boardwalk Parade on Wednesday night, July 13, 5 p.m. The parade runs from 6th to 14th streets on the Boardwalk.

Miss Night In Venice will be crowned that evening in ceremonies at the Moorlyn Theatre at 7 p.m.
Contestants raise thousands of dollars for local charities. The event is chaired by Mrs. Patricia Gillian assisted by a hard-working committee.

Miss Night In Venice and her court lead the boat parade, which is Saturday night, July 16. To enter the parade, visit www.ocnj.us/NIV/ or call 609-399-6111.

There is no entry fee. Home participants must pick up a commemorative mug and mandatory house number sign before the parade.

Boat owners receive a free photo of their boat in the parade, a mug and a $50 decorating card.

The boat and home competition is one of the largest events of its kind in the world, and one of the few remaining regattas of its kind in the country, according to Ocean City Public Relations Director Mark Soifer.

It was started in 1954 to celebrate the City’s Diamond Jubilee by Jack Jernee, captain of the lifeguards, and Art Watkins, city publicist. It quickly became one of the city’s signature events, attracting thousands to this family resort.

New this year is a Collegiate Cup to be awarded to a boat that best celebrates school pride. Two other new categories, “Best Non-Profit Community Organization and “Best Commercial Entry,” have also been added.

This year’s optional theme is “Destination America,” with boats and homes decorated to highlight great cities and landmarks across the United States.
Entrants can also pick their own theme.

A fireworks display will be set off over the bay following the parade.

The attached image is an Ocean City Patch file photo