LI Maritime Museum's 21st Annual Boat Burning

The Long Island Maritime Museum today announced that their 21st Annual Boat Burning will take place on Friday, October 28th at 5:30 pm.  The rain date is October 29th.

The Boat Burning, which is held on the grounds of the museum, marks the height of fall with an event for the entire family.

Admission will be $5.00 with children under 5 free. 

Each year, someone donates a large, wooden boat that is beyond repair to the museum.  Loosely based on the Norse tradition of a Viking Funeral, the boat is set ablaze by the West Sayville Fire Department to the delight of the many families in attendance.  

In addition, the winning raffle ticket for a handmade 10’ Lapstrake wooden rowing skiff, constructed by volunteers at the Museum’s Penney Boat Shop with white cedar, steam bent oak frames and a mahogany transom, will be announced during the evening. Tickets, $5.00 a piece or (5) for $20.00, are sold months in advance and can be purchased right up until the time of the drawing.

 “This unique annual event has become a fall tradition in our community,” said Executive Director Steve Jones. “In addition to hosting Long Island’s largest bonfire, it’s a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase the outstanding work that our boat shop volunteers do, by raffling off one of their beautiful creations.” 

Halloween costumes are encouraged and live music, refreshments and snacks will be on hand.