BAILEYS HARBOR — Bailey’s Harbor is hosting its first Blessing of the Fleet Festival the weekend of May 21-22, 2016.
The Blessing of the Fleet Festival begins with the Door County Scottie Rally’s Parade of Scots, followed by a traditional Blessing Ceremony over CB Radio to all vessels, regardless of denomination, vessel type, or home port, according to BaileysHarbor.com
After the blessing, the town hosts live music, arts and crafts, food and drinks and programs celebrating a rich maritime tradition.
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The maritime industry has thrived on Lake Michigan since the mid-1800s, and was central in the growth of Baileys Harbor, a lakeside town located half way between Sturgeon Bay and the infamous Death’s Door on the Door Peninsula. The harbor offers crystal clear waters, world class salmon and trout fishing, and some of the best winds for kite and wind-surfing on Lake Michigan.
The local sport and commercial fishing boats will be docked at the Town Marina so festival goers can meet local captains to ask questions and hear firsthand stories.
Browse the rare model ship silent auction from Door County Maritime Museum on the Midway. The Ridges Sanctuary will celebrate the grand re-opening of the Baileys Harbor Range Lights featuring guided tours. The Fire Department will be doing fire boat cold water rescue demonstrations just offshore.
If you’re looking for an educational experience, stop at the Town Hall for presentations on topics including our maritime history, commercial and sport fishing industry, safe water practices, and invasive species featuring local experts.
Saturday night brings the brand new community-wide culinary event: Lake to Table: A Taste of Baileys Harbor. Local restaurants will feature fish entrees sourced from the waters of Baileys Harbor and Door County, where fishermen have thrived for more than a century.
Finally, fill your fridge with local produce, flowers, canned items, crafts, and fresh artisan specialties at Sunday Morning’s Farm Market.
For more information visit BaileysHarbor.com or call 920.839.2366