Solomons, MD – Called the best year ever, the 36th annual Tiki Bar Opening Weekend saw over 30,000 people and not a drop of rain, according to bar owner Terry Clarke.
“The crowds were big and well-behaved, and there was great weather, so we’re happy about this weekend,” said Clarke.
Twice the amount of palm trees added this year gave the former motel building a beachy vibe. Also added were pyrotechnics, including fireballs shot out of the heads of two Easter Island-inspired statues.
King Neptune arrived via boat and gave an opening speech before kicking off the weekend officially on Friday evening.
In the Budweiser beer garden, patrons could select a variety of domestic and imported beer, as well as shots of alcohol.
Clarke wasn’t about to reveal the recipe for the Bar’s tropical concoction, the Mai-Tai.
“It’s a trade secret, and they are extremely potent,” said Clarke.
When not enjoying beverages at the bar, patrons were able to dance to live music provided by Caiso Steel Drum Band, Tracy Allen Band, No Last Call, and Come Back Iris.
“The bands that performed were great,” said Clarke.
“People from all over come to the event,” said Clarke. “We have people come in from all over the United States, like Florida, California, even Guam. A couple met here 20 years ago and they come back every year.”
Mainers Dennis and Dan were in Maryland on business when they decided to visit the opening weekend.
“We wanted to check the area out, it reminds us of Florida and going to the beach,” said Dennis.
“People are very friendly and we’re looking for some good seafood!,” said Dan.
Seafood and barbecue were available to pair with the beverages available during the opening weekend.
Mike Theesen, owner of the Grill Sergeant, has been providing pork and other tasty goods for 12 years.
“This weekend has been monumental, totally different from any other year,” said Theesen. “The weather was great and we’ve served over 20,000 people this weekend and gone through thousands of pounds of meat.”
The shop sells a variety of barbecue sandwiches, including pig wings and fries, said Theesen.
“We must have sold thousands and thousands of pounds of French fries,” said Theesen.
Christie took a break from preparing food at the Grill Sergeant, and said that she would be at the opening weekend event if she wasn’t working. “I love the opening weekend. There’s nothing like beautiful people coming together and it’s awesome,” she said. “It’s the place to be. The vibes here are peaceful and feel like you can let your guard down and have a good time, just relax and enjoy themselves.”
It’s important that Tiki patrons feel safe, said Clarke.
“I’ve got two daughters of my own and I understand that women want to feel safe when they are having a good time,” said Clarke. “If you look out, there are probably more women than men here this weekend. It’s all about keeping everyone safe so they can have a good time.”
Crowd morale is important to the Tiki Bar owner.
“I like to watch how people are behaving, how they’re reacting to the environment,’ said Clarke. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many smiling faces. No bad actors, everyone was smiling and having a good time, that’s what it’s all about.”
Potential plans for next year’s opening weekend are in the works, said Clarke.
“We were going to try to get the Blue Angels to fly over this year, but we’re working on that for next year,” said Clarke. “Maybe some sky-riding, or holograms for next year.”
The Tiki Bar raised funds for the Designated Driver program this year, with instant prizes and five grand prizes to give away at a drawing Monday afternoon, April 18 at 1 p.m.
“First prize was a $1,000 voucher towards a six night, seven day cruise for two on Carnival Line at Baltimore. The second grand prize is four Baltimore Orioles baseball tickets, as donated by the Tiki Bar,” said Clarke. “Third and fourth prize winners will win Tiki Bar gift cards and a one night stay at the Holiday Inn in Solomons, and fifth grand prize gets a $50 Visa gift card.”
All we do is open our doors every year on the third Friday in April, and the people come,” said Clarke. “We did a minimum of advertising locally, and on Facebook, and the people just pour in.”
Jacqui Atkielski can be contacted at j.atkielski@thebaynet.com.
PHOTOS
Saturday 2
Related:
Designated driver winners announced