South Haven, Michigan has long been an icon of maritime achievement and enjoyment. It’s a beautiful location on the shore of Lake Michigan makes it a destination outdoor enthusiasts flock to in the name of boating, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and beach-hopping. While these scenic shorelines have innovatively kept up with the changing times, every year the Michigan Maritime Museum hosts a traditional event that reminds visitors how to honor the past while moving towards the future. The Blessing of the Fleet and BBQ is an event travelers to South Haven won’t want to miss when they come by in May.
At 6:00 pm on May 24, 2019, South Haven will once again play host to the Blessing of the Fleet and BBQ to follow. Located at 260 Dyckman, the Maritime Museum proves the ultimate venue for such an event. Tickets go on sale at $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children. The price of admission includes an opportunity to witness a fleet of vessels being blessed for the upcoming boating season in traditional style. Once the blessing is complete guests can enjoy a BBQ picnic sure to be a savory experience for the entire family! Feel free to enjoy time at the Museum by browsing the exhibits or take advantage of the social aspect of this fun event by mixing and mingling with other visitors and locals during dinner.
The blessing of the fleet is a traditional ceremony that has historical roots reaching back to Mediterranean fishing communities hundreds of years ago with some believing the tradition began as far back as the ancient Greek fishing communities. Originally, the blessing of the fleet was viewed as a primarily Catholic tradition, but today, the ceremonial tradition has spread across many religious groups. Whether it’s carried out by a priest or pastor it is performed in the hopes of blessing sailing vessels for both a safe and successful season on the water. It is a ceremony that sheds light on traditions of the past while maintaining hope for the future and with an eye always on a season that is bountiful.
Once the blessing and BBQ are done, make your way back to a vacation rental that meets all of your vacation expectations. The team at Beachwalk Properties is here to help take care of your accommodation details so you can focus on enjoying your South Haven adventure. We’ll match you with a waterfront property that comes complete with the plush amenities and stylish furnishing you’ve been looking for. Contact us today to get started.