By 1812Blockhouse
This year we’re continuing our weekly look at unique events and attractions that are within an easy driving distance of Richland County. For the first time in two years, we’re sharing events taking place in-person, although by all means please all ahead and verify what social distancing, masking, etc. We call these “Summer Road Trips.”
Of course, we regularly feature the many extraordinary places to visit right here in Richland County and encourage our readers to get out and experience what is on offer in our own backyard.
Would you like to see The World’s Largest Rubber Duck?
Here’s your chance.
The Independence Day weekend is booming along the Lake Erie shore, not so far from Richland County that is prohibitively expensive to visit. While you are out and about, why not stop by Sandusky’s Jackson Street Pier for the Tall Ship Festival of Sail, joined by – you guessed it – The World’s Largest Rubber Duck.
Multiple tall ships will sail into the harbor, including the Nao Trinidad from Seville (Spain), the Schooner Utopia (built in Wisconsin by Peterson Builders), and a ship that has historical ties to our area – the U.S. Brig Niagara is the third reconstruction of one of the small ships that “defeated a British squadron of six vessels in the Battle of Lake Erie.
A pivotal event in the War of 1812, that defeat led to regaining Detroit, lost at the war’s outset, and lifted the nation’s morale.” The Niagara is also the Flagship of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Tours of the ships, day sails and educational programming will be available each day of the festival.
The World’s Largest Rubber Duck will float around, as an “inspiration to enjoy the world’s waterfronts & conserve our natural resources.”. An incredible photo op, Mama Duck is 61 feet tall and weighs 11 tons. Along with the ships and the duck, enjoy food trucks, craft vendors, and live performances all three days of the fest. The fest is open from 10 AM to 6 PM-6pm on Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Tickets range from $40-$70.
Photo: Creative Commons License
