The Annual Blessing of the Fleet & Seafood Festival began in 1988 to support and honor local shrimpers. Overlooking beautiful Charleston Harbor in the picturesque Memorial Waterfront Park, the festival has evolved into one of the most highly anticipated events of the year for seafood lovers. Participants are treated to a boat parade and ceremonial blessing of the shrimp/fishing fleet, savory seafood samplings sold by some of Mount Pleasant's favorite restaurants, live music, an arts/crafts show, shag dancing and shrimp-eating contests, and family-friendly activities. Free admission and Parking! Food and event memorabilia is available for purchase and proceeds benefit a local nonprofit approved by Town Council. Town of Mount Pleasant Events staff helps promote other Mount Pleasant events occurring in the week leading up to the Blessing, which we call Fleet Week.

FREE Parking & Shuttles

Two shuttle bus routes will be available offering plenty of convenient and easy offsite parking (buses will have plenty of room for loading up all your festival supplies).  Park and ride from the following locations:

East Cooper Medical Center, Mullis Building
851 Leonard Fulgham Boulevard (Handicapped accessible bus stops at ECMC only)

James B. Edwards Elementary School
855 Von Kolnitz Road

Moultrie Middle School/Farmers Market Pavilion
645 Coleman Boulevard

Cheryll Woods-Flowers Sports Complex
85 Patriots Point Boulevard

LIMITED parking is available at Memorial Waterfront Park. For easiest access, park & ride!

Beneficiary
Continuing the tradition begun by the Magwood family who started the festival in 1988, every year the proceeds from the festival have been donated to local nonprofit organizations.  The 2017 beneficiaries are East Cooper Meals on Wheels and Charleston Port & Seafarers’ Society.  Past beneficiaries include such worthy causes as Camp Rise Above, Carolina Children’s Charity, East Cooper Habitat for Humanity, East Cooper Community Outreach, Louie’s Kids, and the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation/SC Coastal Conservation Association.

Craft Show
Stroll through the Craft Show and enjoy a variety of hand-made arts and crafts. You’re sure to find plenty of unique Lowcountry creations that make great gifts for yourself or your loved ones!