June 10, 2026 — A centuries-old maritime tradition with roots in Mediterranean Catholic fishing communities will once again take place along Long Beach Island at the annual Blessing of the Fleet on Sunday, June 21 at 5:30 p.m.
The event, held at the Barnegat Light Yacht Basin, 18th Street and Bayview Avenue in Barnegat Light, brings together community members and worshipers of all ages, even some furry friends, for a ceremony dedicated to praying for the safety of crew members and for a bountiful harvest.
This year’s ceremony will be a bittersweet one for Zion Lutheran Church, according to the Rev. Wes Smith, as it honors two longtime members of the fishing industry.