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Ahoy captain!
When you mix a great passion for the sea with a good old time you're blessed with each of these maritime festivals. Whether it's an appearance from a massive rubber duck to folk tales echoing through the atmosphere, they are immersed in such a rich culture you won't want to miss all the action occurring all around.
So if you're looking for great food, drinks and live entertainment these next festivals offer the best of land and sea.
Los Angeles, CA: Tall Ships Festival
If you've ever dreamt of a career conquering the great blue sea, the Tall Ships Festival is the perfect adventure to transform that dream into a reality. From Aug. 20-24, the Port of Los Angeles will be sprinkled with numerous classic vessels including the battleship VSS Iowa, Ralph Scott Fire Boat, Freda B as well as the Spirit of Dana Point.
Photo courtesy of Tall Ships Festival LA
Not only will these prestigious ships dominate the scintillating Pacific Ocean, but so will the 66-foot Rubber Duck, which is undeniably the largest in the world. If that doesn't get you amped up, how would you like to hop onboard and experience life amid the seas for yourself? Even if you look away from the ocean for a moment, there are plenty of activities from music to wine tastings that will pique your interest. The Tall Ships Festival is maritime extravaganza that appeals to all ages by offering a majestic show amid the ebb of the Pacific.
Portsmouth, NH: Portsmouth Maritime Folk Festival
When the sounds of folk music ring through the air, people of New Hampshire are lured out of their homes and drawn to Portsmouth's Market Square for the Portsmouth Maritime Folk Festival.
On Sept. 25, celebrators will get taste of the town's seafaring history as old legends and musicians liven up the square with rich folklores. From concerts featuring performers like Cliff Haslam and Andy Kenna to copious amounts of great tasting brew, the festival is as cultural spectacle too charming to miss.
So if you're intrigued by the mysteries of the sea, the Portsmouth Maritime Folk Festival is an eccentric journey into one of the United States' most influential maritime destinations.
Burlington, Vermont: Lake Champlain Maritime Festival
With vintage boats beautifully decorating the crystal-clear waters of Lake Champlain, the Lake Champlain Maritime Festival is a premier event for every sailor at heart. From Aug. 7-10, expect the unexpected as talented musicians rock the house and vessels of all styles majestically put on a fascinating show during the Vintage Boat Show.
And when you're craving a bite to eat, there will be plenty of deliciously prepared foods waiting for you to sink your teeth in. Whether it is on land or on water, the Lake Champlain Maritime Festival provides a fun filled experience for its guests.
Mystic, Conn: Mystic Seaport Sea Music Festival
What better way than showing your appreciation for the sea then by singing to it. Well, that's how the Mystic Seaport Sea Music Festival confesses its love, which seems to be a thrill for seafarers of Mystic, Conn.
During the annual celebration, crowds of revelers gather to sing, take part in interactive demonstrations, dance and listen to artists from across the globe as they take the stage. Set against the sparkling backdrop of the Mystic Seaport, this festival is perfect for enjoying the adventures and sea while remaining completely dry.
St. Augustine, FL: St. Augustine Marine Heritage Festival
St. Augustine's maritime culture comes to life like never before during the St. Augustine Marine Heritage Festival, which an event that caters to every lover of the ocean. On Oct. 18-19, Florida's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is the ultimate hangout spot for becoming immersed in old seafaring traditions with fun festivities like the Old City Bartending Challenge, wine and beer tasting, the Ponce de Leon Paddle Battle SUP Race, as well as the Dirty Boat Building Competition and Race and much more.
So if you're a true admirer of the sea, you'll want to pay a visit to the St. Augustine Maritime Heritage Festival to eat, drink and be merry amid the city's seafaring history.
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