An Art League of Ocean City Production

The Film Festival was founded in 2017, and is a production of the nonprofit Art League of Ocean City, whose youth and outreach programs benefit from the festival. This annual event attracts international, national, and regional artists working in film. In 2025, the festival screened 100 independent films, both short and feature length, and offered socializing with the filmmakers. The four day festival creates community engagement for film lovers and networking opportunities for filmmakers of all levels, and it’s the best excuse to visit the beach in March with special discounted rates on oceanfront rooms!

How to Fest

Welcome to the Ocean City Maryland Film Festival! Whether you’re a filmmaker, film lover, or first-time attendee, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your festival experience.

Plan Your Schedule

We can’t wait to welcome you to the OCMD Film Festival — where independent film meets the shore.

Lights. Camera. Ocean.

Pass Pick-Up

All Passes must be picked up at our Festival Headquarters:
The Art League of Ocean City
502 94th Street
Ocean City, MD 21842
Pass Pickup:
Monday-Sunday
March 2-8 9am-4pm

Please bring:
A photo ID
Your confirmation email (printed or on your phone)
We encourage you to pick up your pass early to avoid lines and start enjoying the festival right away.

Festival Lounges

Festival Lounges are a place to connect, recharge, and collaborate.
Headquarters Lounge
Art League of Ocean City 94th St
Sponsored by the Town of Ocean City
Styled by Donaway Furniture
Hours: Thursday 9-4, Friday 9-4
Saturday 9-4, Sunday 9-12
Downtown Lounge
Cambria Hotel Lobby
13 St Louis Ave
Hours:
Thursday-10:30-5, Friday 11-7, Sat 11-6
Open to all filmmakers and pass holders.
Lounge Amenities include:
Coffee & refreshments
WiFi & charging station
Networking space
Informal meet-ups and media interviews
This is where conversations turn into collaborations.

Parties & Special Events

The OCMD Film Festival is as much about community as it is about cinema.
Parties and special events are open to all filmmakers and 4 day pass holders and day pass holders.
Friday March 6, 5-7PM
Art League First Friday Opening Night Reception
Celebrate the 10th season of the festival with the opening of the Art League of Ocean City March exhibits! Free hors d’oeuvres and complimentary refreshments. See all 100 of the 2026 film festival posters in the Staircase Gallery, and experience the community weaving project featured in the festival documentary.
Saturday March 6, 5-7PM
Cocktail Party: Happy Hour at the Princess Royale 91 St
Free appetizers and cash bar.
Nightly After-Parties
Keep the energy going after the last screening! Join us at select partner venues for casual gatherings with filmmakers and attendees. After Parties include food and drinks with special pricing.
Thursday, March 5
Cambria Hotel 13th & St Louis Ave (lobby bar): 9-11PM
Friday, March 6
Spain Wine Bar (rooftop) 13th & St Louis Ave: 9-11PM
Saturday, March 7
Fager’s Island 60th Street: 9:30-11PM (Show lanyard or wristband for entry)
CLosing awards celebration
Sunday March 8 Seacrets 49th St – 2-5PM
Help us honor outstanding films and creators at our awards ceremony and wrap party. Free Buffet and cash bar

Filmmaker Testimonials

Attendant Testimonials