International Blessings of The Fishing Fleet Day is observed annually on the first Sunday of October, making it fall on 05 October 2024. This day is a significant event in coastal communities worldwide, where fishing is a key part of life. The celebration involves rituals, processions, and blessings intended to ensure the safety and success of fishing fleets. Fishermen and their families gather for ceremonies at the water’s edge, where boats are blessed to protect them from the dangers of the sea.
One of the traditional practices involves the "Golden Net" ceremony, where a symbolic net is cast into the water to seek the ocean's blessings for a bountiful harvest. In some places, lantern processions are held, where fishermen’s families walk along the shore with decorated lanterns, representing hopes for safe returns and good catches. Many communities celebrate with feasts featuring seafood and lively cultural performances, strengthening bonds between fishermen and their families while honoring their contributions to food security and local economies
