Strange Alabama- Blessing of the Fleet

Perhaps one of the most interesting and peculiar celebrations that happens every year in the great state of Alabama takes place in the fishing community of Bayou La Batre.

This particular festival, known as the Blessing of the Fleet, began in 1949 when a parishioner named Clarence Mallet became convinced that the sea was in dire need of God's blessing if the town wanted to have a good harvest. After convincing a local pastor, the Blessing of the Fleet was born.

The celebration is centered around a parade of vibrantly decorated boats that pull up to the bayou to receive a blessing from the Archbishop of St. Margaret's Catholic Church. This ensures that the seamen of Bayou La Batre have a bountiful catch and are protected from the dangers of the sea.

Along with the blessing, there are also fun activities that people from all over are encouraged to participate in. There is an Arts & Crafts Show, a Gumbo Cook-Off, and even a competition in which a Fleet Blessing Queen is crowned. Over the years the festival has transformed from a deeply religious ritual to an all around good time.