This weekend offers annual events with a mixture of water (The Blessing of the Fleet in Colton’s Point) and wine (The Sotterley Riverside WineFest in Hollywood).
A lot of folks not familiar with Maryland’s history or the importance of the seafood industry in Maryland may wonder what the Blessing of the Fleet is. It is a religious celebration of Maryland’s Birthplace, the landmark of St. Clement’s Island, and a blessing of the boats, or fleet, as October 1 generally begins the oyster harvesting season in Maryland.
In the early years of the 7th District Optimist Club, Father John J. Madigan, Pastor of Holy Angels Church in Avenue, MD, suggested to Club President James Banagan that there should be an annual event to bless the oyster boats as they began the harvest season, and to celebrate the history of Maryland’s Birthplace.
They decided to name this event the Blessing of the Fleet, and celebrated that year at the end of September. The first event saw 700 people attend, but the following year, through help and support from the local community as well as the Maryland Watermen’s Association and Harry Lundenberg School of Seamanship, over 5,000 people attended.
The Blessing of the Fleet is still celebrated annually each year, and just celebrated its 45th birthday. The event still combines the history where Maryland began, the religious blessing of the oyster boats, and a weekend of fun family activities.
As for the wine part of the weekend,…cheers to 11 years! Celebrate the Best of Maryland at the 2013 Riverside WineFest at Sotterley! For two days, guests will be able to enjoy award-winning wines from over 20 Maryland wineries, partake of delicious food from local vendors (including the addition of The Ruddy Duck Brewery). You can in the artisan marketplace to find unique gifts, and have fun in the children’s activities area. In the historic Barn, visit artists from The Color & Light Society who will be creating, displaying, and selling their treasures. Make sure to stop by the So. MD So Good tent where you can watch entertaining and educational demonstrations ranging from cooking to wine pairing. Free Garden Tours, Mini-Tours of the 1703 Plantation House and Slave Cabin Tours will also be available to guests.
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