Blessing of The Fleet

As a much-loved event in the local calendar, Sydney Fish Market is excited to once again host the annual Blessing of the Fleet celebration.

Join us in celebrating one of oldest traditions amongst fishing communities in the world, and as a community help bless our local fishing fleet, wishing them safe travels and a prosperous year ahead.

Courtesy of the Association Bagnara Calabra, the statue of the Madonna—the Santa Maria Di Porto Salvo (literally translated as St. Mary of Safe Ports or Safe Harbour)—is taken on a colourful procession around the site with a youthful marching band, returning to the wharf to bless the decorated local fishing fleet.

With a stunning backdrop of Blackwattle Bay, the festa will then kick off in the afternoon with a ‘thankyou’ to our fishermen, followed by live entertainment courtesy of The Sincopa Trio, including the famous spaghetti eating competition for both adults and children.

For one day only, Sydney Fish Market will be opening its Blackwattle Bay wharf for public access, housing a stage for entertainment, as well as plenty of seating, tables and umbrellas to enjoy the day beside the water, up close with the fishing fleet.

Market stalls will involve free face painting for the kids as well as a must see an interactive display from our local fishermen in collaboration with OceanWatch Australia, with fresh fish on display and net mending demos.

We look forward to seeing you down at the market!

10:30 - Welcome to site
10:45 - Opening prayer
10:50 - Procession of the Madonna around site
11:30–12:15 - Blessing of the Fleet
12:20 - Speeches
12:45–15:00 - Live Entertainment (including the famous spaghetti eating contest)