Coronavirus Cancels Ocean City’s Doo Dah Parade Again

OCEAN CITY, NJ — For the second year in a row, the coronavirus pandemic has canceled Ocean City’s Doo Dah Parade.

“Because outdoor gatherings larger than 50 people are still prohibited by executive orders from the governor, the April 17 Doo Dah Parade will be canceled," Mayor Jay Gillian said in his weekly update. “We had been holding out hope that restrictions on outdoor events would be relaxed by this time, but the parade requires advance planning on the part of both the city and participants.”

The Mr. Mature American Pageant, which was initially scheduled on the night of the parade, has been postponed to September, though no date has been determined yet.

Mr. Mature includes competitions in talent, judge's interviews, poise and appearance, and on-stage questioning. "Brady Bunch" star Barry Williams is still scheduled to serve as emcee of the pageant.

Gillian announced the status of several upcoming events in his weekly update.

Easter events are set to take place beginning next week in accordance with current public health guidelines, including the Great Egg Hunt, the Easter Sunrise Service, Dueling Pianos and the Easter Fashion Stroll. Read more: Easter Events Planned For Ocean City

The Comic Book and Memorabilia Show will be held on April 10 and the Sports Memorabilia Show on April 24 will take place at the Music Pier, with capacity limits in place.

The Spring Block Party is tentatively scheduled for May 1. Gillian said more details about the event will be announced soon.

“We’re looking forward to the return of as many events as possible this year, but health and safety will always be our top priority. We may not be able to hold all of them, and some may look different. Every event that happens will be in full compliance with current public health guidelines and require masks and social distancing.”

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