By Theresa DeFranzo
SALISBURY - Looking for something to do this weekend? Well, you’re certainly in luck – and, better yet, you don’t have to drive very far.
Just head to Salisbury Beach State Reservation as the Salisbury Beach Partnership launches the first annual Merrimack River Maritime Festival. The event takes place on Saturday, July 19 and Sunday, July 20.
What will you find at the festival? There will be live music, fireworks, pirates, hands-on activities and a chowder and beerfest to name just a few of the activities that will take place.
In addition to that, the Salisbury Beach Partnership announced that three majestic ships ranging in length from 137 feet to 170 feet will be docked at the mouth of the Merrimack River as part of the festival, which is a celebration of the region’s rich maritime heritage.
|
Pictured above, the Roseway, a 1925, 137’ National Historic Landmark fishing schooner, which remains one of only six original Grand Banks Schooners. |
According to a press release, “The event will showcase more than 400 feet of beautifully appointed historical and educational ships donning sails reaching soaring heights of more than 110 feet. The three Class A and B vessels that will be docked for public viewing and tours at the Reservation for the two-day riverside festival include: the Spirit of South Carolina, a 140 foot replica of an 1879 two-masted schooner; the Roseway, a 1925, 137’ National Historic Landmark fishing schooner, which remains one of only six original Grand Banks Schooners; and the Tall Ship Mystic, a 170 foot three-masted ship that calls Mystic, CT home.”
“Our region’s history stems from a strong maritime industry that thrived for generations at the mouth of the Merrimack,” said Wayne Capolupo in a press release. Capolupo is the President of the Salisbury Beach Partnership, the organization planning and hosting the first annual event. He went on to say, “These great vessels will be amazing to see as they cross the horizon and sail into port. This will indeed be the most spectacular maritime event in the Valley’s history, and the Salisbury Beach Partnership is pleased to be part of such an educational and entertaining festival that will benefit our local economy.”
On Saturday evening, Salisbury Beach Center will welcome the crowds for a spectacular fireworks display, live concert and the 1st Annual Maritime Chowdah Challenge & BeerFest from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets to the BeerFest may be purchased on-line at www.beachfests.org.
Also on Saturday, you can get up close with pirates at Pirate Fun with Free Men of the Sea from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. These pirates will re-enact sword fights, sing sea chanteys, and pose for pictures throughout the day. They’re well-schooled on the rich pirating history off the shores of Salisbury, and can answer your pirate questions.
Festival hours are on Saturday, July 19 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Reservation, and 4 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the Beach Center, with the largest Fireworks Show north of Boston from 10 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. On Sunday, July 20, the Festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Reservation. Admission to the landside Festival is free. There is a small fee for ship tours and tickets will be sold on-site only. For more information, visit the Merrimack River Maritime Festival website at www.beachfests.org.
|
