The Flagship Niagara will return to Erie Wednesday, August 26th at approximately 3:00 p.m. after a ten day voyage to Put-in-Bay, Ohio. The Niagara voyaged to Put-in-Bay to take part in the Oliver Hazard Perry birthday celebration at the Perry’s Victory National Park.

Two days after the Niagara’s return to Erie, the Flagship Niagara League will be hosting a welcome home festival and gala on Saturday, August 29th to help celebrate the end to the Niagara’s summer voyage season. The public is highly encouraged to attend either event as proceeds directly assist the effort to keep Niagara sailing. The Niagara will continue to offer Day Sails out of the Erie Maritime Museum until September 20th.

The “All Hands on Deck” Festival will take place at Dobbins Landing on Saturday, August 29th from 1:00-5:00 p.m. Both the upper and lower decks of Dobbins will be utilized for the event’s activities. Festivities include tours of the Niagara, live music provided by the Thin Blue Line, Colonel Mustard and other local bands, as well as the presence of arts, crafts, and food vendors. Erie Beer will also be hosting a beer tasting event.

Starting at 7:00 p.m., the “All Hands on Deck” Gala will commence with a live auction and dance music provided by the Red Hot Rugcutters. The gala will also feature an open bar with plentiful hors d’oeuvres provided by Harry Miller. The event will conclude at 10:00 p.m.

Admission for the festival is $10 per individual or $15 per couple. Individuals under 21 are admitted for free. Individual tickets for the gala are priced at $45 , or $75 per couple.