Jacksonville Blessing of the Fleet

A downtown river blessing run by the local boating squadron, with recreational boats parading past the Lone Sailor statue on the Southbank. Wikipedia dates it to 1985. Where to watch: Boats stage on the river off Metropolitan Park, then run upriver through downtown and pass the Lone Sailor statue on the Southbank, where clergy bless each boat. The Southbank Riverwalk around the statue is the spot to stand; the Northbank Riverwalk opposite gives a wider view.