WILDWOOD – The 5th Annual Wildwoods Maritime Festival will be held at the historic Hereford Inlet Lighthouse June 21 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and June 22 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. The 1874 Gothic-style beacon is located at 111 North Central Avenue in North Wildwood, NJ.
The festival will highlight New Jersey’s rich maritime history – dozens of artists and crafters from around the country are expected to exhibit as well as numerous non-profit marine and historical organizations. Historical displays are planned, pirates will wander the grounds, and tours of the 19th century lighthouse and award-winning Victorian Gardens will be offered for a fee of $5 for adults and $1 for children. A children’s activity area is planned; live music by Valerie Vaughn & The Earth Tones will be featured; and delicious festival food will round out the festivities.
New this year will be the Young Person’s Art Show & Competition – where all young, aspiring artists between the ages of five and 17 are invited to participate. The participants will be asked to draw, sketch or paint a piece to commemorate the 140th anniversary of North Wildwood’s Hereford Inlet Lighthouse. One work from each artist will be hung on display during the two-day event and prizes will be awarded for outstanding artistic achievement. Also, authors Chris Kastle and Carolyn Miller will be on site throughout the festival for a special book signing event.
June 22 will feature the first-ever Best Dressed Pirate Contest where participants are encouraged to dress in their best pirate costumes and roam the streets, entertain the crowds, or simply show off their rags. Judging will begin at 1 p.m. and prizes will be awarded to the Best Male Pirate, Best Female Pirate and Best Pirate Couple.
Additionally, a Classic Boat Show will take place during the weekend featuring antique and unique watercraft and maritime items on display.
The festival will be held rain or shine and admission is free.
For additional information about the Maritime Festival, visit www.HerefordLighthouse.org or call 609-522-4520.
For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.