The sale or public drinking of alcohol in Ocean City, New Jersey, is prohibited by law, and as such it is considered a dry town, although alcohol is available to purchase in the neighboring community of Strathmere.
The ban includes New Year’s Eve, which is traditionally an alcohol-free celebration in Ocean City, but drinking alcohol is permitted in private settings, and restaurants with private dining clubs may circumvent the regulation and serve alcohol to members.
Ocean City’s strict ban on alcohol dates back to the city’s founding in 1879 by Methodist ministers, who sought to promote strict religious standards in the community. In subsequent public votes, a majority has voted to retain the law.
