The Canyon Lake Yacht Club invites boaters to participate in its inaugural Blessing of the Boats on Saturday, August 22. Commodore Dave Dain will preside over the event. Aprile DeAnne McKinnon will sing the national anthem, and Pastor Pete Van Dyke of Canyon Lake Community Church will offer the blessing of the boats.
Boats will assemble at 1:30 p.m. on the main lake side of the cove near the main causeway. Yacht Club members will be there to provide instructions and to lead the flotilla to the pastor’s boat where he will offer a benediction to each craft and crew for a safe and fun remainder of boating season.
After the blessing, the Yacht Club flagship boat will lead the boats on a slow parade around the main lake before dispersing for individual celebrations.
In keeping with the tradition of boat and fleet blessing events, participating boats are invited to decorate their boats with ribbons, flags, and flowers. Political signs and flags will not be permitted.
All Canyon Lake residents and their guests are invited to view the blessing and boat parade. Great viewing spots include the beach at Holiday Harbor and the lodge grounds overlooking the marina.
The Blessing of the Boats is a century-old tradition. Originating in fishing villages in the Mediterranean, this annual festival was an important part of boating life as captains, crews, and families sought divine favor for bountiful catches and safety for working boats and the men who served on them. Today, annual blessing events are held by most yacht clubs and boating fleets around the world.
The Canyon Lake Yacht Club was established in 1990 by Canyon Lake residents who enjoyed time on the lake. Since that time, the Yacht Club has operated as a social and philanthropic club within the Canyon Lake constellation of sanctioned clubs and organizations. Boat ownership and is not required to participate in the club.
The club of more than 125 members maintains a fun and busy social calendar, bringing members together for dinners, cruises, and other recreation. The club hosts several annual community events and gives back to the community through its student scholarship program. For more information about the Yacht Club, visit www.canyonlakeyachtclub.com.
