Special Guest Added To Ocean City's Night In Venice Lineup

OCEAN CITY, NJ — A special guest has been added to the 2023 Night in Venice lineup, and he's the perfect fit for a theme like "It's a Philly Thing." He's 6'6", weighs 300 pounds and has a 90-inch waistline.

Yes, the Phillie Phanatic himself will be joining fellow local icon and this year's grand marshal Jim Gardner as the parade's "grand mischief-maker," Ocean City officials announced Thursday.

And officials teased that he's not the only surprise guest coming.

"Stay posted for an upcoming announcement about one of the Phanatic's best mascot friends also joining Night in Venice," officials said.

The Phillie Phanatic visited the Coast Guard station in Ocean City this week to help remind everybody of the importance of safety on the water, especially during Night in Venice. He also served as coxswain for an OCBP lifeguard boat on the Night in Venice route.

The boat parade starts at 6 p.m. Saturday, July 29 from the Ocean City-Longport Bridge. A fireworks display will go off at the conclusion of the parade (approximately 9:15 p.m.). Gates open at 4:30 p.m. Entertainment will be provided until the parade arrives and will resume until the fireworks start.

No alcohol is permitted, and no parking will be available, but the free shuttle service will be available from remote parking at the Ocean City Municipal Airport, Ocean City Community Center and Shelter Road parking area.

Outside the Bayside Center, grandstands will be set up at street ends along the bay from Battersea Road to 16th Street and also at Tennessee Avenue. These are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Streets include: Battersea Rd., North St., 1st St., 2nd St. Marina, 4th St., 6th St., 11th St., 13th St., 15th St., 16th St. and Tennessee Avenue.

Presenting sponsors for 2023 Night in Venice are ACME Markets and the Jet Drive Exchange Boat Club.

The Phanatic helped by sharing some safety tips. Check out the video below.