Summer is the perfect season for boaters to combine their love of the open water with vibrant coastal and waterfront festivals. This year's calendar is packed with events. Here are the top events to make the most of your summer cruising:

Annual Brunswick Blessing of the Fleet

When: May 11, 2024
Where: Brunswick, Georgia
Details: Free admission; features fresh seafood, music, and family entertainment.

Celebrate the local maritime culture at the Brunswick Blessing of the Fleet. Enjoy a day filled with boating, water sports, and a taste of the region's best seafood, making it a quintessential start to the summer boating season.

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Bon Vivant Cajun Music, Food, and Art Festival

When: May 17-19, 2024
Where: Norfolk, Virginia
Docking Fee: $100 (includes daily admission for four guests)

Start your summer with the vibrant sounds and flavors of the Bon Vivant Festival. Indulge in authentic Cajun cuisine, enjoy spirited music, and explore local art, with special free admission for early arrivals on Friday.

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Carolina Beach Music Festival

When: June 1, 2024
Where: Carolina Beach, North Carolina
Details: $35 online tickets; $40 at the gate. Food and coolers allowed, no glass or pets.

Dance to lively beach music and relax by the shore at this inviting one-day festival. Gates open early, offering a full day of musical entertainment and beachside fun.

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Norfolk Waterfront Jazz Festival

When: August 16-17, 2024
Where: Norfolk, Virginia
Docking Fee: $250 (includes general admission tickets for four)

Enjoy an elegant evening of jazz music set against a beautiful waterfront backdrop. Perfect for a serene summer night, this festival offers premium entertainment for jazz enthusiasts.

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Pensacola Beach Air Show

When: July 10-13, 2024
Where: Pensacola Beach, Florida
Details: Free viewing from the beach; features the Blue Angels.

Experience the thrill of precision flying with the Blue Angels at the Pensacola Beach Air Show. Spectacular aerial maneuvers and the scenic coastal setting provide a memorable spectacle.

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Sailfest New London

When: July 13-14, 2024
Where: New London, Connecticut
Details: Free admission; features fireworks, amusement rides, and over 200 vendors.

This premier summertime event boasts a major fireworks display and numerous vendors. Enjoy amusement rides and free entertainment at Southeastern Connecticut's biggest festival.

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Beaufort Water Festival

When: July 12-21, 2024
Where: Beaufort, South Carolina
Details: Closest marina: Safe Harbor Beaufort.

Immerse yourself in a variety of water-related activities at the Beaufort Water Festival. Conveniently dock nearby and participate in festivities perfect for beating the heat of South Carolina's summer.

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Yarmouth Clam Festival

When: July 19-21, 2024
Where: Yarmouth, Maine
Details: Free admission; features local non-profits, free entertainment, and clam-related competitions.

A community staple since 1965, the Yarmouth Clam Festival highlights local culture, supports non-profits, and offers a plethora of activities, making it a highlight for families and community members alike.

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Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival

When: July 19-21, 2024
Where: Revere, Massachusetts
Details: Free admission; features world-class sand sculptors and over 75 food vendors.

Marvel at artistic masterpieces and enjoy a bustling festival atmosphere at the Revere Beach Sand Sculpting Festival. This event combines artistic talent with community spirit, offering fun for all ages.

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Lollapalooza

When: July 28-31, 2024
Where: Grant Park, Chicago, Illinois
Details: 4 days of the world's best music in the heart of Chicago.

Experience one of the most iconic music festivals from the comfort of your boat. Lollapalooza offers a diverse lineup that attracts music fans from around the world. Boaters can enjoy the festival's atmosphere by docking nearby and possibly even catching some of the live performances from the water.

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Key West Lobsterfest

When: August 8-11, 2024
Where: Key West, Florida
Details: Celebrate lobster season with a variety of events across Key West.

Key West Lobsterfest is a lively celebration of the opening of lobster season, featuring delicious seafood, live music, and a vibrant street fair. It's a culinary highlight for seafood lovers and party-goers alike.

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Each festival on this list offers unique experiences that celebrate local culture, music, and the maritime lifestyle. Plan your summer cruise around these events for a season filled with fantastic memories on and off your boat. Ensure to check docking fees and facilities in advance to enjoy a hassle-free festival experience.