ABOUT

MISSION

The Friends of Windjammer Days are a 501c3 non-profit group of volunteers who have come together to continue the tradition of Windjammer Days in Boothbay Harbor. They have committed to maintaining the heritage of this maritime event to enhance the Boothbay Region community and the experience of maritime Maine.

HISTORY

On a foggy day in the spring of 1962, Captains David and Marion Dash sat on the porch of their home and noticed a gathering of windjammers tucked into the harbor, patiently waiting for the fog to lift so they could safely return to sea. It was at that very moment a tradition was born. Invitations were sent to schooners sailing along the New England coast for the first Windjammer Days Festival in the boating capital of New England: Boothbay Harbor, Maine. And so it began… 

Fast forward to today: after countless volunteer hours, loyal sponsorship donations and the incredible generosity of Captains David and Marion Dash, this ‘festival of sailing ships’ is now the cornerstone of celebrations in our community.  The Windjammer Days festival marks the kick off to summer in our region and is a time to reconnect with family, friends and neighbors after the long winter, an opportunity to support local businesses and welcome visitors. It is a time to honor our maritime history and celebrate the vital role it plays in the lives of all who live here. 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President  Peter Ripley
Treasurer  Dianne Gimbel  
Secretary  Mark Gimbel  
Director   Bill Logan
Director   Nat Wilson
Director   Bill Bailey                                                                    

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

Across the Harbor Tug of War - Mark Gimbel
Antique Boat Parade – Doug Goldhirsch & Bruce White
Artist's Alley – Janet Brennan, Sandy Wheeler, and Erik Minzner
Blessing of the Fleet - Local Clergy
Boats – Peter Ripley
Cod Fish Races - Chris Gleason & Rusty Court
Entertainment – Bill Bailey
Food – Jackie Barnicourt
Footbridge Lighting - Nancy McEvoy
Kids Alley – Trish Warren & Lori Bailey
Lighted Boat Parade -Kim Gillies
Logistics Coordinator – Dave Butterworth
Marketing/PR - Kim Gillies
Rocky Coast Road Race - YMCA
Signage - Tom Blake
Sponsorship – Mark Gimbel
Street Parade – Stephanie Hawke, Rosemary Barrett
VIP Reception – Laura Blake
Whale Park – Kris Ward

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