One of the things I loved most while writing Welcome to Seagull Street was staying true to the real summer rhythm of Ocean City, Maryland, in 2023. I wanted readers to feel like they were really there, sweating in the salt air, walking down the Boardwalk, and enjoying their favorite beachy food, drinks, and activities.

This week in real life, Ocean City is buzzing with some of the excitement that also helped shape the backdrop of my story:

The White Marlin Open – The world’s largest and richest billfish tournament, and a spectacle whether you’re a seasoned angler or just in it for the weigh-ins at Harbour Island Marina. The excitement, the crowds, and the salty air, it’s pure Ocean City energy. In Welcome to Seagull Street, Evan’s Uncle Jack always joins a crew for Marlin Week.

Shenanigan’s Dueling Pianos – Shenanigan’s fills the Boardwalk with the sound of competing keyboards, crowd singalongs, and spontaneous dance breaks. It’s where strangers become friends over a shared chorus. In the book, Evan, Ray, and Olivia talked about going to see the dueling pianos at Shenanigan’s.

Marlin’s Point – In the pages of Welcome to Seagull Street, my fictional rock-and-roll bar (inspired by the legendary Purple Moose Saloon) sets the scene for tasty drinks, loud guitars, crazy dance floors, and those unforgettable summer nights that make the best stories later.

In Welcome to Seagull Street, events like these aren’t just background, they’re part of the heartbeat of Ocean City. The same activities you can read about in the book are happening right now. Maybe you’re even living it!