One of the many advantages of living in a waterfront community is the opportunity to enjoy the Benicia Yacht Club's annual event “Opening Day on the Strait,” celebrating the official start of boating season. Opening day is a community event that invites everyone who participates to connect with Benicia’s waterfront.
The event kicks off Saturday, May 3rd, with the traditional Blessing of the Fleet. It’s a blessing celebrated by boating communities around the globe, with a ceremony unique to their area. The lineup includes a parade of vessels that are decorated in a theme, this year being ‘Honoring Tradition.’ An award-winning club, the BYC was established in 1977, and has sponsored Opening Day events each year since.
The event is open to the public as well as Benicia’s active sailing community. "As in year's past, the Benicia Yacht Club welcomes and encourages everyone in the community to come celebrate Opening Day on the Strait,” says Christine Garske, Benicia Yacht Club Vice Commodore. “In its 35th year, the event not only embraces sailing and boating traditions, but also celebrates our beautiful waterfront and everything it has to offer."
Activities are free and open to the public. The event begins at 10am, and in addition to the Blessing of the Fleet and boat parade, includes arts & craft booths, kid’s games, face painting, food, music and dancing, along with new membership specials.
Benicia Yacht Club: 400 East Second Street, Benicia. 707.746.6600
