2. Blessing of the Fleet

The Buzz -- Rooted in a centuries-old Mediterranean tradition, prayer for safe journey and plentiful catches is offered at the onset of Bayou La Batre's annual shrimping season. As brightly adorned ships and boats parade past cheering crowds, a priest from St. Margaret's asks the Lord to bless each vessel in the local fleet. Weekend events also include games, plenty of boiled shrimp and gumbo, arts and crafts booths, an antique car exhibit, and a Sunday morning mass.