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See You April 5th 2025!

Set sail for the 2025 Thunderbolt Blessing of the Fleet on April 5 • 11am-5pm featuring a fleet blessing, live music, great food, and vibrant community fun along the Wilmington Riverfront!

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About Our Event

ABOUT OUR EVENT

Experience the Magic of the 2025 Thunderbolt Blessing of the Fleet!

Prepare for an unforgettable maritime tradition as the 2025 Thunderbolt Blessing of the Fleet returns for its fourth year, reviving a cherished celebration after a 20-year hiatus! Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Wilmington Riverfront, this spectacular event pays homage to Thunderbolt’s deep-rooted shrimping and fishing heritage, bringing together the community for a day of tradition, music, food, and family fun.

A Celebration Like No Other!

Witness the blessing of the fleet, a time-honored maritime tradition led by Bishop Stephen Parkes from the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, offering prayers for the safety and prosperity of our local fishermen and their vessels.
Feel the energy of Live Music filling the riverfront, creating the perfect soundtrack for a day of celebration.
Indulge in a diverse feast of flavors, with savory delights from food trucks and local Thunderbolt eateries, serving everything from fresh seafood to festival favorites.
Explore an exciting vendor market featuring local artisans, businesses, and specialty goods, perfect for discovering unique treasures.
Bring the whole family and enjoy a variety of free activities, making this event a true community experience filled with laughter, connection, and coastal charm.

Calling All Boaters! Join the Blessing of the Fleet Boat Parade!

Kick-off spring with a spectacular cruise along the beautiful Wilmington River as part of the Blessing of the Fleet Boat Parade! Gather your friends, set sail through the heart of Thunderbolt, GA, and celebrate this cherished tradition with fellow boating enthusiasts. Bishop Parkes of the Diocese of Savannah will be blessing the fleet at 2 PM.🚤 Free to participate—just bring your boat and enjoy the festivities🌊 Self-guided procession gathering in the water in front of Town Hall⚓ All boats and vessels welcome! Plus, don’t miss The Burger Boat, serving up delicious bites on the water!

Be Part of the Wave!

This is Thunderbolt’s premier maritime event, and we want YOU to be a part of it! Whether you’re a vendor, sponsor, or eager volunteer, now is the time to get involved. Don’t miss the boat!

📅 Mark your calendar: Saturday, April 5, 2025 • 11m-5pm
📧 Want to join the celebration? CLICK HERE! for vendor, sponsorship, and volunteer opportunities.

Follow us on Instagram for updates, sneak peeks, and more! See you at the 2025 Thunderbolt Blessing of the Fleet—where tradition meets excitement on the Wilmington Riverfront! 🌊✨