You will be able to celebrate Independence Day weekend and wish area anglers good luck this summer with just one stop in Algoma. The city will be the site for the annual Blessing of the Fleet for the fourth time on Saturday. The old Mediterranean tradition was resurrected after a number of fishing boats caught fire in 2016. At 6 p.m., boats will be led down the Ahnapee River by a U.S. Coast Guard boat while witnessing a water salute. Smashed on the Rocks owner Rana Ninneman says it usually is held earlier in the fishing season, but this arrangement fills a void in the city.
The Algoma Blessing of the Fleet is also being paired with live music and food throughout the day and fireworks at dusk.
Photo courtesy of Algoma Chamber of Commerce and Josh Kohanek