The custom of the Blessing of the Fleet can be traced back to Old World European fishing communities where God was publicly acknowledged and asked for a bountiful harvest and the safety of the men at sea. Today, a Fleet Blessing ceremony begins with a prayer by the Archbishop of the Diocese of Mobile. The Fleet Blessing Queen is crowned, then the names are read, and the bell is tolled for each person known in our community to have perished at sea. The Archbishop and other clergy then board a boat, and from the bow toss the ceremonial wreath into the bayou waters. After this, decorated boats of all kinds form a procession behind the boat carrying the Archbishop, and parade to the mouth of the bayou and back, as the Archbishop blesses their boats and docked vessels along the way.

The tournament takes place on the Saturday before the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo. RMYAT is for children 15 years and younger and typically attracts more than 1,500 young anglers.

More than 3,000 anglers from 24 states will fish in the Gulf of Mexico for three days for more than $400,000 in cash and prizes in 30 categories. Sponsored by the Mobile Jaycees.

Over 40 artists from throughout the Southeast at 10 local businesses – many hosting open houses. Pick up a map at any of the 10 stops & have it stamped at all 10 stops for great prizes. Ride your bike, your car or the free trolley which will transport visitors from spot to spot with a pickup at the ferry as well for “walk-ons” from Ft. Morgan.

Hundreds of colorful, four-foot long cascades of chrysanthemums are displayed on bridges and balconies, in baskets and containers through the Gardens. Guests can enjoy the columns of mums and thousands of mums in the flower beds in the fall colors of yellow, red, bronze, lavender and white. The Great Lawn’s dramatic border is a feast for the eyes.

Bellingrath’s Mum Show is the nation’s largest outdoor chrysanthemum display. All of the cascades are grown at Bellingrath. Moving the cascades into the gardens is one of the most spectacular horticultural events of the year. It takes more than nine months to grow a single crop – a true labor of love by Bellingrath’s expert growers.
*Exact bloom times may vary depending on weather conditions. For peak bloom times, visit Mum Watch on our website in early November.

South Mobile County is enjoyed by many family and friends throughout the year. The 4th of July is a extra special time for many, as they gather to celebrate together. There are many activities going on throughout South Mobile County and we invite you to enjoy all of these wonderful festivities.
Here is a schedule of events:

• Grand Bay Watermelon Festival – July 3rd, 3-7pm and July 4th, 8am – 4pm

• Dauphin Island Veteran’s Association Ceremony – July 4th, 11am at Memorial Wall

• Dauphin Island Fireworks – July 4th, 9pm at the Public Beach

The festivities for the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo will kick-off at the Rodeo site with the Coors Light Liar’s Contest on Thursday before the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo. Best/Worst fish tale contest with prizes.

The Fifth Annual Massacre Island will be set as a 18th-century reenactment.  In 1711, Pirates stormed Mobile Bay and attacked Dauphin Island, dubbed Massacre Island by Pierre Lemoyne after discovering a huge pile of human skeletons. Come and see Pirates as the pilfer and pillage Isle Dauphine and fight against Spanish and British Galleons. Witness Flintlock Pistol Duels, Pirate Tug-O-War, Swashbuckling Sword Play, cannon firings, Blacksmith demonstrations and period music by the Kracker Dan Band. There will also be a Trasure Hunt for kids 12 and under. Tickets for the event are $8 for attendees 13 and up, $4 for attendees 5 – 12 years old and free for children 4 and under.

Hosted by The Society of Creative Anachronism, the Baroney of Osprey will present life in the Middle Ages. You will see Knights in Armor as they storm the castle, view melee’s and sieges. Visit with Lords, Ladies, Artist and Medieval Merchants. Watch our Resident Blacksmith demonstrate his craft in the Fort’s original Blacksmith shop.