The Boothbay Harbor Windjammer Days Festival is a cornerstone event for coastal Maine. It marks the beginning of the summer season and brings people from all over the region to celebrate and reconnect. Dubbed an “annual event celebrating Maine’s maritime heritage,” the week-long gathering affords plenty of opportunities to take part in events that honor the area’s history. The 2017 festival is the 55th, and will run from June 25 through July 1.
Find out about more events like the Boothbay Harbor Windjammer Days Festival when you download our Boothbay Harbor Vacation Guide. Included in the guide are listings of all our best area festivals. It also lists ongoing activities, restaurants, arts, culture, and heritage centers, etc. When you plan your trip to Boothbay, it’s an excellent directory to have by your side. Download it now, and enjoy the best of Boothbay Harbor on your next vacation.
History of the Boothbay Harbor Windjammer Days Festival
In 1962, a stroke of inspiration led to the creation of the regional event now known as the Boothbay Harbor Windjammer Days Festival. Captains David and Marion Dash saw a gathering of windjammers from the porch of their home. They were waiting for the fog to lift, and before it did, the idea was born. They invited schooners sailing along the coast to the festival’s first year. Fifty-five years later, it has evolved into a beloved regional event full of activities and community pride.
Boothbay Harbor Windjammer Days Festival Highlights
The 2017 Boothbay Harbor Windjammer Days Festival will keep you busy every day. Start your week with the Arts and Crafts Show on Boothbay Common on Saturday, June 25. Don’t miss Cap’n Fish’s Reggae Cruise featuring Dani Tribesmen that night at 6 pm.
Kids will love the programs geared toward their age group. For example, there is Kid’s Alley (Tuesday, 9 am – 3 pm), Windjammers for Wee Mateys (Tuesday, 10 am – 2 pm), and the Kids Tent Activities at the library (Wednesday, 10 am – 3 pm). Historians should attend The History of Schooners on Thursday at 10 am, and seafood enthusiasts can enter an Oyster Shucking Contest on Friday. Of course, sailors will have much to enjoy over the course of the festival. Watch the boats arrive in Linekin Bay on Tuesday, June 27th!
No matter your specific interests, there is something for everyone to look forward to at Windjammer Days. See the full Schedule of Events to view everything the town has planned.
Reserve Your Room at Newagen Seaside Inn Early
If you’re planning a stay in the area during the Boothbay Harbor Windjammer Days Festival, make sure to get your accommodations at Newagen Seaside Inn as soon as possible. Newagen is another Boothbay Harbor institution, first opening in the early 19th century. Over two centuries, we have maintained the essential qualities of a coastal Maine vacation. Gorgeous views and a meaningful culture have led generations to make this their preferred destination. Be a part of this long-standing tradition during Windjammer Days, or at another point over the summer. Whenever you come, you’ll experience first-hand why so many consider Newagen Seaside Inn a second home.
Sail on authentic 1812 privateer The Lynx during Windjammer Days 2017! Call our sister property, Linekin Bay Resort, at 866-847-2103 to reserve your tickets.