Tall Ships Erie 2013 Celebration

Thousands of tourists are in town this weekend to enjoy Tall Ships Erie and to celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the Battle of Lake Erie. I have never seen so many cars lined up on the Bayfront Highway, practically at a standstill from State Street to the East Bayfront Parkway. Motorcycle police were directing traffic at several intersections as people tried to find a good spot to view the Tall Ships Parade of Sail. A black and white helicopter patrolled the channel and shoreline, while big, puffy white clouds accented the blue sky.  

I see the Niagara so much that I take it for granted. Shame on me. When I walked past the window at work last night, I stopped for a moment to take a picture. I had forgotten how spectacular our sunsets are here in Erie, PA. And this sunset was even more spectacular with the Brig Niagara in the foreground. This view repeats practically every night when the Niagara is not touring the Great Lakes promoting maritime history.

Ten ships took part in Tall Ships Erie, and tours were available for a small fee. I walked around with a few co-workers on our lunch break amidst a sea of 5,300 children from schools in Erie, Crawford and Warren Counties. It's amazing that the teachers were able to keep track of them all.

Enjoy more fun facts and photos of Erie, Pennsylvania at: Old Time Erie