Ocean City, Maryland, ranks high on the list of top vacation destinations within the Mid-Atlantic region. It’s not uncommon for the town’s population to exceed grand totals of 300,000 during peak season, which usually begins just before or around Memorial Day and tapers off following Labor Day’s last hurrah.  Compare that to the off-season, when the bustling beach scene vanishes, and total population numbers plummet primarily to just those of year-round residents. That raises the question of whether or not there’s even anything to do in this coastal community throughout the winter months. That answer, surprisingly enough, is yes. Here …

Every year, Pantone announces its Color of the Year, a shade that captures the spirit of the moment while setting the tone for design, fashion, and home décor trends. For 2025, Pantone has unveiled PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse, a soft yet sophisticated brown infused with comforting warmth. Evoking the delectable pleasures of cacao, chocolate, and coffee, Mocha Mousse exudes a harmonious blend of grounded earthiness and refined elegance. This shade is more than just a color; it’s a sensorial experience, designed to envelop us in a sense of contentment and indulgence. The Essence of Mocha Mousse Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director …

A little under 10 miles from Ocean City, Maryland, you’ll come to the lovely little town of Berlin. The proximity between the two makes Berlin an ideal destination for those seeking a convenient day trip detour away from the shore. Berlin is an absolute gem, boasting an array of delightful attractions and endeavors to explore. The versatile offerings are plentiful and speak to everyone regardless of age or unique interest. In keeping things versatile and varied, here are my top 10 bucket list recommendations to keep in mind while making your rounds through Berlin, Maryland. Explore Assateague Island Horse-crazy or …

Every December, Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia transforms into a beautiful tribute to our nation’s fallen heroes. This year, on Saturday, December 14, 2024, Wreaths Across America offers an opportunity to honor those who served by placing evergreen wreaths with bright red bows on their graves. The event begins with a heartfelt ceremony at 8:00 AM, followed by volunteers laying wreaths across the cemetery. It’s a personal moment to say the name of a veteran aloud and honor their legacy. Families, friends, and solo participants are welcome to join—just sign up on the Wreaths Across America website. Arlington National Cemetery, …

Gettysburg is a charming, nostalgic place to visit any time of year, but there’s just something magical about the atmosphere of this historic borough at Christmastime. That’s when all those fan-favorite seasonal festivities, along with the annually celebrated A Gettysburg Christmas Festival, roll into town. It truly creates an ambiance straight from a Dickens novel. Always held the first weekend in December, A Gettysburg Christmas Festival is the undeniable anchoring holiday highlight to visit each year. But there are also plenty of other ongoing seasonal delights to enjoy locally. For instance, there’s the official Tree Lighting Ceremony in Lincoln Square, …

It’s widely known that Ocean City, Maryland, is one of the most popular beachgoing destinations for summer vacations. But for more than three decades, the town has also drawn visitors throughout the winter holiday season thanks to the annual Winterfest of Lights event. True, there is no shortage of stellar seasonal celebrations featuring lighted displays and whatnot across the region. But Ocean City’s Winterfest of Lights remains one of the most remarkable holiday experiences worth a visit each year. Winterfest kicks off just before Thanksgiving and preparations get under way in Northside Park well before then. Opening night festivities officially …

Virginia’s oldest distillery, A. Smith Bowman Distillery, has just released the latest addition to its Abraham Bowman Oak Series: American Oak. Founded in 1934 on a 7,200-acre family farm in Fairfax County, the distillery relocated to Fredericksburg, where it continues to craft premium, small-batch spirits with a blend of history and innovation. Its award-winning lineup includes Bowman Brothers Small Batch Bourbon, John J. Bowman Single Barrel Bourbon, and the Abraham Bowman Limited Edition Collection. The Abraham Bowman Oak Series is an exciting project focused on the impact of various oak types on whiskey aging. This latest release uses American White …

I recently made a trip to Virginia’s Chincoteague State Park in the off-season, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. While summer might get all the hype, fall, winter and even spring bring a whole different vibe—peaceful, serene, and a true escape. If you’ve been thinking about a visit, consider going when the crowds have died down. You’ll thank me later. The Beauty of the Beaches Without the hustle and bustle of the summer tourists, my family and I had long stretches of sand almost to ourselves. The crisp ocean breeze and the sounds of the waves crashing …