A beloved Bandon tradition is returning after a four-year absence. The annual Blessing of the Fleet, first established in 1989, will be held on Monday, May 26 at 9:30 a.m. at the Riverwalk Amphitheater, near the glass-enclosed shelter.

Hosted by members of the Bandon Ministerial Association, the ceremony honors those who have been lost at sea, those who make their living on the ocean, and all military veterans.

Community members are invited to submit the names of loved ones to be included in the ceremony. Names can be sent in advance by email to unity@unityofbandon.org, by phone at 541-347-4696, or can be brought to the event in person.

Following the ceremony, local clergy and members of the U.S. Coast Guard will cast flowers and wreaths into the mouth of the river, while reading aloud the names of those lost at sea. Donations of flowers, bouquets, or wreaths are greatly appreciated and may be brought directly to the event.

For more information, contact Unity of Bandon at the number or email above.