Annual Blessing of the Fleet

This annual tradition takes place every year in historic Darien, Georgia to “bless” the local shrimp boats with good fortune prior to the start of the shrimping season. This seafaring festival traces its origins to a Portuguese tradition that began in 1938 to commemorate the first appearance of The Blessed Virgin to three children near the town of Fatima, Portugal on May 13, 1917.

The Annual Blessing of the Fleet will take place at the Darien waterfront park. One of the best events that Coastal Georgia has to offer, we proudly offer a taste of fresh seafood, local culture, boating, water sports, the shrimping industry, arts, crafts and variety of leisure activities. The festival will feature fun and games for the kids, fabulous food, music, great family entertainment, and a variety of artists and displays.