Ocean City has formed a new Night in Venice Committee to help plan and enhance the annual summer boat parade and bayfront celebration.
The new group is led by Dave Winslow, a retired executive and Ocean City resident who served for decades in a similar role.
Winslow first became associated with Night in Venice in 1983, when the Ocean City Yacht Club passed along responsibility for running the parade to the city.
“It’s great to have Dave back on board,” Mayor Jay Gillian said. “His experience and expertise will be a great asset for the event.”
In 1985, Winslow was appointed as the event chairman, working with the city’s late public relations director Mark Soifer and continuing in that role through 2000. After a short hiatus, he became event chairman again for several more years starting in 2006.
“I am excited to return to the Night in Venice Committee this year and to help bring more excitement, participation, quality, and activities to this very long-running, important and famous event that helps make Ocean City the great place it is for residents, visitors and businesses,” Winslow said in a new release.
The 2023 Night in Venice is scheduled for 6 p.m. Saturday, July 29. Entries are currently being accepted from all those who want to participate in the annual bayfront celebration.
The boat parade and decorated bayfront home contests provide a chance to be part of the highlight of the summer season in Ocean City. A fireworks display over the bayfront will return after the boat parade.
The optional theme of “It’s a Philly Thing” provides a chance to celebrate the rich history and culture of the Philadelphia region in sports, music, food, education, government and more. This year’s grand marshal will be retired Action News anchor Jim Gardner.
Entries for boats and homes are currently being accepted online at www.ocnj.us/NIV or by calling 609-399-6111.
Presenting sponsors for 2023 Night in Venice are Acme Markets and the Jet Drive Exchange Boat Club.
