Wind, water and history converge as an international flotilla of tall ships sails into Lake Erie’s western basin this August. Get an up close look at these ships in ports including Catawba Island, Kelleys Island, Middle Bass Island, Port Clinton and Put-in-Bay. These communities will host festivals featuring tall ship tours, day sails, musical entertainment, historical re-enactors and more.
The events culminate with a full-scale re-enactment of the Battle of Lake Erie at the actual battle site near Put-in-Bay.
The following are just a few events planned for the Battle of Lake Erie Bicentennial Celebration. Click here to view a full list of events.
May 25, 2013
Salute to the Troops: Honoring War of 1812 Casualties
Perry’s Victory Visitor Center Lawn, Put-in-Bay
419.285.2184, 11:30 am
The National Park Service honors our nation’s service men and women with music, games and inspiring speakers on the back lawn of Perry’s Victory Visitor Center.
August 29-September 2, 2013
Tall Ships Challenge® Great Lakes 2013
Various locations in Ohio and Canada
419.285.2832
Celebrating the 200th anniversary of the major military events of the War of 1812 that took place in the Great Lakes. Tall Ships will dock in the communities of Catawba Island, Port Clinton, Kelleys Island, Middle Bass Island, Put-in-Bay, and in several Canadian ports including Leamington, Kingsville, Amhurstburg, and Windsor. There will be a Tall Ship Bicentennial Parade on Sept 1 and a re-enactment of the Battle of Lake Erie featuring the Tall Ships on Sept 2.
August 30-September 1, 2013
Reenactment Village at Put-in-Bay
DeRivera Park, Downtown Put-in-Bay
419.285.2832, 9 am-5 pm
Featuring historical demonstrations, education, and crafts as well as food and craft vendors.
September 2, 2013
Battle of Lake Erie-Battle Reenactment
Put-in-Bay
440.349.3210, 12-2 pm
Experience history first hand in one of the largest celebrations ever to take place on Lake Erie. Join the crew or join the fleet. Take part in the battle as a tall ship crew member or as part of the fleet aboard your own vessel.
The Inquirer 