Battle of Lake Erie Bicentennial

Battle of Lake Erie - Bicentennial Tall Ship Festival and historic reenactment

A celebration to mark the 200 year anniversary of the battle, sometimes called the "Battle of Put-in-Bay," the coastal and island area of Lake Erie near Sandusky, Ohio, and about ninety miles west of Cleveland. The festival will take place August 29-September 2, 2013 in the ports of Put-in-Bay, Port Clinton, Catawba Island, Middle Bass Island, Kelleys Island and Pelee Island, Ontario.

September 2, 2013 Tall Ships representing the U.S. and Great Britain will gather at the site of the original battle to reenact the historic fight.

Visitors will be able to tour the ships as well as participate as crew members, part of the "fleet" or as a militia member. (for more information see "get on board" and "How to Participate" tabs on the website.

Along with the Tall Ships surrounding days are being planned to include:


* Large fireworks display
* Military Flyover
* Period Reenactors
* National music acts
* A gala concert featuring the Ohio State marching band
* Solemn ceremonies and honor guard to memorialize the fallen
* Special dinners, lunches and fundraising events highlighting different aspects of Battle of Lake Erie history
* New Bicentennial flags and accessories unveiled
* Food and beverage concessions, featuring fare both exotic and comforting.
* Period Art & Craft exhibits and vendors

A new Bicentennial Navy and crew members will board one of the Tall Ships setting sail to the actual battle site. A Reenactment of the battle will then take place. A parade of sail will take place along the shoreline and in many of the host cities prior to the event.

Official invitees will include representatives from the U.S., British, and Canadian governments, and Native American Indian groups. Mark your calendar for September 2013!