2023 Blessing of the Fleet and Shrimp Festival

A ceremonial blessing, given by a local Catholic priest, marks the beginning of the shrimp fishing season. Even though it had its origins in ancient times in Europe, the first Blessing of the Fleet in the Biloxi Bay was given in 1929, and now takes place annually in a colorful procession in the Mississippi Sound.

The ceremony begins with the dropping of an evergreen wreath into the Sound in remembrance of fishermen who have been lost at sea. Then a procession of more than 30 shrimp boats files past the anchored “Blessing Boat” where the officiating priest stands, sprinkling holy water on each of the boats and giving a blessing for each one, asking a safe and prosperous fishing season.

2023 Blessing of Fleet

April 22: Shrimp Queen contestant applications due 9am at FLC

May 10: 2023 Poster Unveiling 6pm at St. Michael FLC 

May 26: Past Royalty reception 6 PM at FLC (Invite Only)

May 27: Shrimp Queen Pageant 6pm at the Biloxi Civic Center

May 28: Blessing of the Fleet 2pm