Church and chocolate eggs may be part of Easter everywhere. But in Ulladulla on the South Coast it also means festival time as Ulladulla comes alive for the annual Blessing of the Fleet Festival.

There will be a myriad of colourful and exciting events held throughout the Festival over the Easter weekend, the celebrations will be as impressive as ever, with the return of the annual Festival Parade.

On Easter Sunday thousands flock to see the Parade, the Blessing Ceremony, enjoy the entertainment and activities around the harbour and then marvel at the fireworks display in the evening over Ulladulla Harbour.

The parade is the annual pilgrimage to Ulladulla harbour for the traditional blessing ceremony under the watchful eye of St Peter, the Patron Saint of the fisherman and the festival princesses.

With floats inspired by Peter Pan, Austin Powers, Toy Story and George of the Jungle, Grease and Rocky Horror it’s bound to a fest for all to see and enjoy. Lead by St Peter and the Festival princes, the parade will go down the highway, then into South street and down to the harbour.

The Easter weekend is a time when Ulladulla comes alive to one of the biggest festivals on the South Coast. It is a time when the family can enjoy a relaxing break from every day life as well as enjoy the celebrations that see people coming back each year for more.

The 2008 winning princess is Georgia Sadler, partner William Chapman, sponsored by Ella Grace.

The date for the Blessing of the Fleet Princess Ball is Sat 28 March 2009. You need to keep in mind that all Princesses and partners must attend all practice sessions for 5 weeks before the ball which will be held on Sunday afternoons from 5pm to 7pm. They will also need to have a float on Easter Sunday. Information sheets will be sent to all the schools later this term.

2008 Festival Photos