The future of Ocean City Jeep Week hangs in the balance after city officials this week denied an event request from its organizers.
During Monday’s meeting, the Ocean City Council voted down a private event request from Amanda and Chris Cropper to hold Ocean City Jeep Week at the beach and Inlet parking lot May 29 through June 1. Those opposed said they were concerned about the safety of certain event components, as well as the revenues the event brought in last year.
“In terms of results, this event really failed,” Council Secretary Tony DeLuca said.
In 2023, the town’s special events department received applications from organizers of both Jeep Week and Jeep Fest to hold separate events on the same week in August of 2024.
To settle the issue, city staff asked for an extensive proposal from both groups to determine which event would be approved for the August dates. However, it ended up being a moot point, as the Croppers opted to change their 2024 event to May.
Back before councilmembers this week, Cropper sought approval to once again host the Jeep Week event this spring. Amanda Cropper said this year’s event is slated to have morning Jeep parades on the beach, a night sand course ride, a Jeep light show and more. The event would also have monster truck rides, provided by The Metal Shop.
“We aim to ensure a more memorable event that appeals to Jeep enthusiasts and a broader community,” she said.
Oh my !!! Not a monster truck on the beach, that would be so dangerous. Thanks for saving us Tony
Jeeps can still come to Ocean City, they just won’t have exclusive access to the beach parking lot and the convention center parking lot. C’mon jeepers, fill up OC !!