Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – On Saturday, May 25th, the Springfield Illinois Elks lodge will host the 9th annual Blessing of the Boats, an annual event intended to promote safe boating on Lake Springfield this boating season.

The Blessing of the Boats kicks off the holiday weekend and the 2024 boating season. Mayor Misty Buscher, Ward 1 Alderman Chuck Redpath along with other special guests will address the boaters before the ceremony. The Springfield Police water patrol, Illinois Department of Natural Resources Police and the Springfield Fire Department will also be on site.

The U.S. Power Boat Squadrons will provide free vessel safety inspections. City Water, Light and Power boat patrols will also attend and monitor a no wake zone during the event. Other events are scheduled throughout the day and evening on Lake Springfield.

The Blessing of the Fleet is a tradition that began centuries ago in Mediterranean fishing communities. The Lake Springfield Blessing of the Boats is nondenominational, and all are welcome to participate.

The public is invited to attend the event by boat or shore at the lakefront of the Springfield Elks Lodge located at 409 East Lake Shore Drive on the northeast end of the lake. All may begin assembling near the lakefront after 12 p.m. and the ceremony will begin promptly at 1:00 p.m.

Participating boaters are encouraged to decorate their boats appropriately and can assemble lakeside at the Elks lodge property about 100 yards offshore.

A parade of boats to receive the blessing by the presiding officiant Rev. Father Chima (Freddie) Mbiere pastor of St. John Vianney in Sherman and Resurrection Parish in Illiopolis, will be led by the Springfield Police and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Police. Americas Boating Club, Land of Lincoln Sail and Power Squadrons will be on site with boating safety information.

This annual community event is in conjunction with National Safe Boating Week.

Rain date for the event will be Monday May 27th, 2024.