Part of the Lighted Parade That Happens on Saturday, July 3, in the Boothbay Harbor.  (Photo Courtesy of Northeast Media Associates).

The 59th annual Windjammer Days returned to Boothbay Harbor once again – the festival began on Sunday, June 27 and runs through  Saturday, July 3rd, at 9:00 pm.  There are many of the same events that people have come to expect and enjoy every year with some revisions to keep people safe and healthy.  Many of these plans were made before the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions and plans can’t be changed again as quickly as some would prefer.

For example, the annual Street Parade has been replaced this year by a Porch Parade with local homeowners and businesses encouraged to decorate their porches and yards to celebrate the theme of “Land Ho!”  Cash prizes will be awarded in residential and commercial categories, with spectators encouraged to vote for their favorites via text.  An interactive map of all participating businesses and homes as well as voting information will be available on the festival website at: www.boothbayharborwindjammer.org.

The Gathering of the Fleet will take place on Wednesday, June 30, welcome the beautiful windjammers into Boothbay Harbor.  Other events currently planned include fan favorites such as the Antique Boat Parade, Rock Skipping Contest, and the Pirates of the Dark Rose.  The culmination of Windjammer Days is a Lighted Boat Parade and fireworks over the Harbor (weather permitting) on Saturday, July 3, at 9:00 pm.

Due in part to Maine’s rich shipbuilding and maritime history, this event is always a popular summertime event.  Wouldn’t it be great if Portland leaders could host a similar event to celebrate this rich maritime history?

Spectators are asked to follow appropriate MaineCDC guidelines during all Windjammer Days events.  For much more information on the schedule of events, please visit: boothbayharborwindjammerdays.org.  Windjammer Days is 2021 is presented by the Friends of Windjammer Days and many generous sponsors.