Blessing of the Fleet at Put-in-Bay: A Time-Honored Tradition

The Blessing of the Fleet returns to downtown Put-in-Bay, a longstanding island tradition honoring the vessels that serve the Bass Islands.

The ceremony takes place at 11 AM at Fox’s Dock, next to the Jet Express Dock, where local clergy bless boats and aircraft for a safe and successful season on the water.

This simple but meaningful event brings together residents and visitors for a moment of reflection and community along the waterfront.

Join The Perry Group for an opening reception at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial as we kick off the 2026 season at 6:30 PM.

This members-only event offers a first look at what’s ahead, including Declaration 250 and updates on the monument construction project. It’s also a chance to connect with others who support Perry’s.

Not a member? Join at the door and attend, or sign up in advance. In honor of America 250, memberships are 50% off for the 2026 season.

Island Wide Garage Sale Put-in-Bay: A Community Treasure Hunt Sponsored by Shores & Islands Ohio

The Island Wide Garage Sale returns to Put-in-Bay on May 16, 2026, from 10 AM to 6 PM.

Residents and businesses across the island open their garages and lawns for a full day of bargain hunting. Shoppers can explore a variety of items, from antiques and collectibles to everyday finds, all spread throughout Put-in-Bay.

A map of participating locations is available here to help guide visitors from sale to sale.

A virtual map is also available here.

Don’t miss the big bargains at the Heritage Resale Shop at the Historical Museum! More information about the Historical Museum can be found on their website and here.

PRINTABLE MAP

VIRTUAL MAP

Want to be included on the map? Register your home at the bottom of this page. Registration has closed.

Memorial Day Put-in-Bay: Honoring Heroes and Celebrating Community

Join us at Put-in-Bay, Ohio, for a meaningful Memorial Day weekend, a time to honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans and active-duty military personnel. Throughout the weekend, service members can enjoy special discounts at local businesses and free ferry passage (Jet Express and Miller Ferry) on Memorial Day. The weekend culminates with the annual Salute to the Troops ceremony at Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial. This event is not just about remembrance; it’s also a celebration of the community, with an array of activities and experiences that make Put-in-Bay a special place to be during this national holiday.

A Weekend of Gratitude and Honor

Memorial Day Put-in-Bay is an opportunity to express gratitude to those who have served our country. The island community comes together to offer special acknowledgments and discounts to service members, creating an atmosphere of appreciation and respect.

Free Ferry Passage for Service Members

In a gesture of thanks, active-duty service persons and veterans are offered free passage to the island on both the Jet Express and Miller Ferry on Memorial Day. This facilitates their participation in the weekend’s events and allows them to experience the beauty and hospitality of Put-in-Bay.

Salute to the Troops Ceremony

The highlight of Memorial Day Put-in-Bay is the Salute to the Troops ceremony at Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial. This solemn event is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel and a chance for the community to come together in a show of respect and remembrance.

Discover Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial

Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial is not just the site of the Salute to the Troops ceremony; it’s also a place rich in history. Visitors are encouraged to explore the memorial and learn about its significance in commemorating the Battle of Lake Erie and promoting peace between nations.

A Weekend of Activities and Relaxation

Beyond the memorial events, Put-in-Bay offers a variety of activities for visitors. From leisurely strolls along the waterfront to exploring local shops and restaurants, the island is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the holiday weekend.

Accommodation Options for Every Visitor

Put-in-Bay boasts a range of accommodation options to suit every need. From charming bed and breakfasts to comfortable hotels, there’s a place for everyone to stay and enjoy the long weekend.

A Community Coming Together

Memorial Day Put-in-Bay is a testament to the community’s spirit of unity and respect. It’s a time for reflection, celebration, and coming together to honor those who have served, making it a truly special occasion for both residents and visitors.

Join Us in Remembrance and Celebration

We invite you to be part of this special Memorial Day Put-in-Bay. Whether you’re paying tribute to our service members, exploring the island’s attractions, or simply enjoying the start of summer, it’s a weekend that offers something meaningful for everyone.

Explore the Charm of Put-in-Bay

Memorial Day Put-in-Bay is also an excellent opportunity to discover the charm and beauty of the island. Beyond the events and ceremonies, the island is a tapestry of picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and recreational activities. Take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic paths, visit the iconic Put-in-Bay Lighthouse, or unwind at one of the many serene parks. The island’s vibrant dining scene offers a range of culinary delights, from fresh seafood to cozy cafes, ensuring that your visit is not only meaningful but also enjoyable. As you explore the various attractions, you’ll find that Put-in-Bay is a place where history, nature, and community come together, creating an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Presented in part by Shores & Island Ohio, the Put-in-Bay Dog Bowl brings DockDogs competition to the island for two action-packed days, May 29 and 30 at McCann’s Field.

DockDogs events feature canine athletes sprinting down a dock and launching into the water in three exciting disciplines:

• Big Air – Long-distance jumping

• Extreme Vertical – High-jump bumper grab

• Speed Retrieve – Timed dash to a suspended toy

Spectators are welcome to watch the action, cheer on competitors, and enjoy nonstop splashes and big jumps.

Dog owners can also register their own dogs to compete. Whether your pup is a seasoned athlete or simply loves the water, this is a rare chance to join the action.

And while there’s no official record on the books, we’re curious how many dogs we can gather on South Bass Island at one time. May 29 and 30 might be our best shot.

Registration information and the full event schedule are available here.

Scroll to the bottom of this page for all of the island’s dog-friendly businesses.

Presented by:

Made Possible By:

Supporting Partners:
Lemons Dog Cookies
Mojito Bay
Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center
Puckett’s Pups
Put-in-Bay Gazette

Dog-Friendly Put-in-Bay Options During Dog Bowl
Bringing your pup to Put-in-Bay for Dog Bowl? Here are some pet-friendly lodging and outdoor dining options currently confirmed by the Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce.

Pet-Friendly Lodging

• Bay Club Cottages
• Bay Lodging
• Bird’s Nest Resort
• Commodore Resort
• Getaway Inn
• Island Club
• South Bass Island State Park

Pet-Friendly Outdoor Dining (Outdoor patio areas only unless otherwise noted)

• The Keys
• Dairy Isle
• The Boardwalk (Lower Deck)
• Rita’s Cantina
• Hooligans Irish Pub
• Put-in-Bay Winery
• Crew’s Nest (Patio)
• The Reel Bar
• Put-in-Bay Brewery & Distillery
• The Dog House
• Chicken Patio
• Frosty’s Bar (Backyard & Big Man Burrito Stand)
• Joe’s Bar
• The Goat Soup and Whiskey (Das Lokal Biergarten)
• Heineman’s Winery (Dog Garden)
• Dan Dee’s Snack Shack
• The Boathouse Bar & Grill
• Noddi’s Java
• PIB Candy Bar

Pet policies can change and are subject to each business’s discretion.

The Mills Trophy Race returns to Put-in-Bay for a weekend of competitive sailing and waterfront celebration! Known as the premier sailing race on Lake Erie, the event features a challenging overnight course beginning in Toledo and ending at Put-in-Bay. Spectators can catch the excitement at the Put-in-Bay Yacht Club and enjoy the post-race festivities around town all weekend long. Whether you’re a sailor or just love the energy of big lake events, the Mills Trophy Race is a can’t-miss experience on the island.

About the Mills Trophy Race

The Mills Trophy Race is an annual tradition that dates back to 1907. Organized by the Toledo Yacht Club, this overnight race challenges competitors with a test of skill, endurance, and strategy on Lake Erie. Boats are divided into multiple classes based on size and crew configuration, with all courses ending at the iconic harbor of Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island.

The race includes:

• Cruising Class: For recreational sailors seeking a less intense experience.

• Short Course: Designed for smaller boats or those looking for a shorter route.

• Mills Trophy Course: The full-length course for top competitors.

After crossing the finish line, racers and fans gather at Put-in-Bay Yacht Club for the official awards ceremony and social events that make the Mills Race famous for its camaraderie and lakeside fun.

Visiting for the Race

Put-in-Bay welcomes boaters, spectators, and racing fans to enjoy the island’s charm during this exciting weekend. Lodging fills up quickly, so plan your accommodations early. Dining, shopping, and live entertainment add to the festive atmosphere surrounding the race.

Website: Mills Trophy Race Official Site

Put-in-Bay Pride: A Celebration of Love, Unity, and Diversity Sponsored by Shores & Islands Ohio

Put-in-Bay Pride returns on Monday, June 8, 2026, for a full day celebrating love, inclusivity, entertainment, and community on the island. Sponsored by Shores & Islands Ohio, this annual event brings together visitors, residents, and allies for one of the most colorful and welcoming weekends of the summer.

The day begins with the Colorful 5K Run, Walk & Jog at 10 AM behind the Round House Bar (look for the firetruck and flag at the starting line.). Open to all ages, participants will make their way through bursts of rainbow powder during this fun and energetic event. Guests arriving from the mainland can catch the 8:30 AM Jet Express or 9 AM Miller Ferry to make race time. The event will also feature starting words from Jim Obergefell, pioneering LGBTQ+ rights activist and plaintiff in the landmark Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges.

Register for the Colorful 5K

Throughout the afternoon, guests can take part in the Pride Scavenger Hunt from 1 PM to 3 PM. Participants will search around the island for clues revealing the hidden letters in P-R-I-D-E before finishing at Mojito Bay for a prize. The scavenger hunt is open to all ages and encourages visitors to explore Put-in-Bay in a fun and interactive way.

The celebration continues with a live comedy show at The Boathouse featuring Molly Kearney from Saturday Night Live and CBS’s DMV. Doors open at 3 PM, with the show beginning at 5 PM. Kearney brings a one-night-only homecoming performance to the island as part of the Pride festivities. General admission tickets are $25 and available during Pride events throughout the day. Seating is first come, first served. This event is 21+.

The evening wraps up with the annual Pride Drag Show at the Round House Bar beginning at 9 PM. Island employees trade in their day jobs for wigs, heels, and fierce alter egos as they compete for the crown in one of Put-in-Bay’s most anticipated Pride traditions. No ticket is required for the drag show. This event is 21+.

From the Colorful 5K and scavenger hunt to live comedy and the iconic drag show, Put-in-Bay Pride offers a full day of celebration, entertainment, and community for everyone to enjoy.

Come join us as we host Sandusky County Parks for our first Wild Tuesday of the season! This weeks educational nature-themed program is all about bats. This event is free to the public and will be held on the back porch of the LEINWC.