Friends of OCNJ History & Culture
Become a Member — Keep the Spirit (and Stories) Alive!
Join our merry band of history lovers and local legends! For just $35 a year, you'll help preserve our community's rich past—and have a ton of fun along the way.
Among other benefits, members receive first access to two free tickets to our beloved (and frequently sold-out!) Holiday Home Tour—celebrate the season, past and present!
Celebrate Your Historic Home with a Custom Plaque
Ocean City’s historic homes tell the story of our island — one porch, gable, and shingle at a time. To help showcase and preserve that history, Friends of Ocean City History & Culture is offering custom Old House Plaques for homes built before 1957 anywhere on the island — not just within the Historic District. Click here to learn more!
“Never underestimate the power of a small group of committed people to change the world. In fact, it is the only thing that ever has.”
—Margaret Mead
Holiday Historic Home Tour 2025 Recap
What is the Holiday Historic Home Tour?
Our 2025 Holiday Historic Home Tour was a sold-out, one-night celebration of Ocean City’s historic homes and neighborhood spirit. This year’s tour was organized by Sne Avichal (Scarborough Inn and Friends board member) and featured 18 homes and businesses lit up for one special December night.
Where can I watch the 2025 recap video?
Funny you should ask. Click the video before to see Oct28 Productions’ excellent and heartfelt recap film of the night, including interviews with hosts and volunteers. It captured the OCNJ community spirit perfectly.
Who made this night possible?
First and foremost: the hosts. This tour only works because neighbors open their doors for neighbors.
Home hosts: Tom & Misty, Linda & Larry, Jennifer & Tom, Ginny, Elaine, Nancy, Nancy 2, Nancy 3 & Bill, Lainey & Tony, Bill & Karen, Tina, Brad & Bridget, Peter, Lauren & Betsy, Cindi, Lexi & Alyse, and Laurie.
Business hosts: Scarborough Inn, The Flanders Hotel, Coastal Chateau, Shoppes at the Asbury, and Handlaget.
The 2025 Holiday Historic Home Tour was sponsored by Friends of OCNJ History & Culture and Scarborough Inn, and this year’s tour was organized by Sne Avichal (Scarborough Inn; Friends board member).
We are equally grateful to our volunteers who kept the tour moving smoothly throughout the evening, and to Sean Quigley and Billy Nichols for providing live music along the route.
How do I get tickets for next year?
If you missed this year’s tour, the key detail is simple: the only way to access early ticketing is to make sure your Friends of OCNJ membership is valid through December 6. Each $35 membership includes early access to two tickets, and tickets sell out quickly.
What if I’m coming with a big group?
Consider adding extra memberships or gifting one. Each membership means early access to two more tickets for the 2026 tour.
Join as a member for early access next year.
The Enigmatic Lane
A Plaza Place Documentary
Friends of OCNJ’s own Bill Merritt and local student Carmine Cantrell present The Enigmatic Lane, a documentary exploring the charm and history of Plaza Place, a hidden gem of Ocean City. Featuring appearances by Keith Hartzell, Maryanne Pionegro-Smith, and Sne Avichal, the film celebrates the unique character of this historic street. Completed just before the news of Wonderland's closing, the documentary offers a timeless look at a neighborhood rich in stories.
Self-Guided Historic District Walking Tour
The Ocean City Historic District Walking Tour, curated by the Ocean City Historical Museum and The Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce, is a self-guided journey through historic homes, churches, and landmarks. It showcases the town's evolution from a Christian seaside resort to a vibrant community, highlighting architectural styles and preservation efforts.