City: Charleston, SC

Category: Annual Events & Festivals

Telephone: (843) 884-8517

Description: The town of Mount Pleasant and the shrimping industry pull out their finest when they invite the public to celebrate the Blessing of the Fleet. Along with prayers for a successful shrimping season and a parade of shrimp boats, organizers offer a wide range of entertainment and culinary delights. From shrimp-eating and shagging contests to a crafts show and face painting, the formula is for fun, and the setting—beautiful. With its gorgeous view of Charleston, Memorial Waterfront Park can’t be beat. The festival is held the last Sun in Apr. Drawing more than 10,000 people each year, the Blessing of the Fleet is Mount Pleasant’s largest tourism event. The festival is sponsored by the town of Mount Pleasant and the Blessing of the Fleet Committee. Admission is free, but food from a variety of East Cooper restaurants ranges from about $2 to $5.