Stonington Borough’s 53rd Annual Blessing of the Fleet

Stonington Borough’s 53rd Annual Blessing of the Fleet, July 21 & 22
The festivities begin at 5pm Saturday with a traditional New England lobster bake at the Town Dock. A variety of seafood, chowder, steamers, fritters, corn on the cob, Portuguese sweetbread, fried dough, fast foods, snacks, drinks and desserts will complete the menu for the feast. Music and dancing on the dock will continue until 11pm. On Sunday, a Fisherman's Mass will be celebrated at 10:30am in St. Mary's Church on Broad Street. Stepping off at 1pm, the parade will feature a variety of bands, colorful floats and Portuguese dancers. Fishermen and friends will then board the boats as well-wishers vie for space to view the blessing and boat parade (around 3pm). The boats will proceed past the flagship to receive the blessing before heading to the waters of the sound where a wreath in the shape of a broken anchor will be cast upon the waters, honoring past members of the fleet. As the boats return, the celebration resumes a lighthearted tone with more food and festivities dockside, ending with a concert from 3-6pm.
Location: Stonington Borough
Price: Saturday $5, Sunday Free
Times: Sat. 5-11pm; Sun. 10:30am-6pm
For More Info: 860-535-3150 / 860-535-3930, www.stoningtonboroughct.com