Ocean City Designated Special Event Zone Ahead of Rock & Ride Bikefest

OCEAN CITY, Md. – The Town of Ocean City has been designated as a Special Event Zone ahead of the OC Rock & Ride Bikefest.

The OC Rock & Ride Bikefest, which runs from Wednesday, Sept. 9, through Sunday, Sept. 13, will welcome thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts from across the country. The Special Event Zone will be instituted a day earlier, on Tuesday, Sept. 8. Those traveling in the area should prepare for heavy traffic congestion and possible changes to normal traffic patterns throughout the weekend.

The zone reduces speed limits to 30 miles per hour in non-residential areas, and increases fines for violations. The Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) says, similar to a construction zone, offenders may face higher fines or even arrest, depending on the severity of the offense. Residents and visitors can expect a significant police presence supplied by multiple agencies on the state, county, and city levels.

In addition to the Special Event Zone, the Town of Ocean City has enacted Resolution 2025-10, designating specific dates for enhanced paid parking rates and penalties during special events. Parking rates and penalties will be increased for the duration of the Bikefest. The enhanced penalties focus on prohibited parking areas; including no-parking signs, red curbs, fire hydrants, and sidewalks. Additionally, OCPD reminds guests that there is no trailer or oversized vehicle parking on any street or paved public lot without a permit between May 1 and Oct. 31.

For event attendees, spectators are encouraged to keep sidewalks clear for pedestrians. Drivers are reminded that spinning tires to perform burnouts are illegal and dangerous. Officers will enforce laws against both drivers and spectators who incite reckless behavior.

For more information about the Special Event Zone, click here.