Everyone remembers a little from their childhood days.  Closer to the ground with a huge imagination, constantly dreaming up epic scenarios that you’d play out with your friends.  Maybe you were a steely boat captain on the high seas caught in the perfect storm trying to deliver your catch on time?  Or maybe just a first mate trying to save your deck hands from going overboard into the puddle that you deemed the Atlantic Ocean?

Fast forward to present day - turn that puddle into Lake Erie, your imaginary boat into the Tall Ship Niagara and yourself into a brave, musket-bearing patriot that fought alongside Oliver Hazard Perry against the British in 1813.  

You are now part of The Battle of Lake Erie.  For real. 

In September of 1813, during the War of 1812, Oliver Hazard Perry of the U.S. Navy and his crew of 557 brave patriots prevailed over the British fleet in the Battle of Lake Erie near Put-in-Bay, Ohio. Two hundred years later, we will come together to celebrate Perry's victory, our nation's sovereignty and the enduring peace between nations.

 The Battle of Lake Erie Bicentennial Celebration in late August through September 10th will bring together hundreds of thousands of people from the U.S., Canada and abroad. 

This two-week Celebration will include a large fleet of Tall Ships in a historic reenactment of the Battle of Lake Erie and a grand Parade of Sail and Port Festivals.  Visitors will be able to tour the Ships, enlist as Crew Members in the reenactment, or be part of the Bicentennial Fleet or Militia. 

Along with Tall Ships activities, surrounding days will include national speakers, marching bands, fireworks, concerts, food, entertainment, arts & crafts, historical activities and an International Freedom Celebration.  And for those who want to focus a little less on history, there are even more reasons to celebrate.

Nestled on the limestone banks of South Bass Island, this closer-to-home-Caribbean has become legendary amongst midwesterners for it’s rich history and unique location. Whether it’s kayaking around the island, parasailing high above the harbor or just simply enjoying waterfront dining, there’s something for everyone.

For more information or to enlist in the Navy and festoon yourself in victory, visit DiscoverOhio or Lake Erie Shores & Islands.