MT. PLEASANT, SC - The annual Blessing of the Fleet and Seafood Festival is held each year at Alhambra Hall in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina. The event includes over 11 local seafood restaurants offering a variety of local seafood dishes as well as music by local favorite "The East Coast Party Band." Spectators are encouraged to bring their chairs and blankets, relax and listen to the band, and enjoy the shrimp eating and shagging contests. This is a unique festival that gives visitors to the area an insight into the local shrimping industry.

On the area by the water, the main stage hosts the East Coast Party Band throughout the afternoon. The smaller stage hosts the actual blessing of the fleet at 1pm. This traditional blessing includes two local clergymen who bless each individual boat as it passes the harbor. A number of exhibitors related to marine, wildlife and maritime history exhibit in this area. Upstairs in Alhambra Hall, the Mt. Pleasant Artists Guild present their annual show of over 50 pieces. In the park, across from the water, is the annual arts and crafts show - a show that only allows 40 vendors of the highest quality. Entertainment for the children is also offered in this area including magicians, singers, clowns and face painting.

The Blessing of the Fleet Committee sell their annual event t-shirts, sodas and ice cream to raise money for the East Cooper Meals on Wheels. The committee also arranges the Captains meeting prior to the event and organizes the parade of boats for the blessing. There is no admission charge and no alcohol is sold. This is a family event. Parking is free and two shuttle buses are available in the area. Restaurant and crafts show applications are available in January 2009. For more information, please call (843) 849-2061.