Schooner Race, Historic Pageant And The Great New London Chowder Challenge

New London's Schooner Festival is underway! One of the biggest events today is the schooner race, which starts at 11 a.m. Viewers for the departure and transit out to the race area are expected to congregate along the Waterfront Park area and at Fort Trumbull. The best possible viewing area in New London for the race will be at Ocean Beach Park.

Here's what else is on the schedule for today:

• 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. – Schooners Available For Day Sails
• 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. – Schooner Fest Merchandise at City Pier
• 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. – Made in Connecticut goods for sale
• 11 a.m. (approx.) Schooners depart City Pier for the race. 
• 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. The Great New London Chowder Challenge
• 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. – Marine Education Displays At Waterfont
• 12 p.m. – Made In Connecticut Displays
• 12 p.m. – Education Static Displays. Exhibitors that have registered are: Marine Science Magnet High School of Southeastern Connecticut; CT River Academy; UConn, Avery Point; East Lyme Schools; Fishers Island School; Ledyard Schools; Sound Waters of Stamford; Essex River Museum; Waterford Schools (tentative)
• Plein air painting competition continues in New London until 1 p.m. Judging of the plein air paintings and an artists reception will be from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.  at the Gallery at Firehouse Square
• 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. (Approx.) Schooners return to City Pier and will again be available for viewing.
• 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. – Sand Sculptures and Monster Murals For Kids Along The Waterfront
• 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. – Flock Theatre will present a series of history-themed programs, the highlight of which will be a street pageant and the “burning in effigy of Benedict Arnold”. In addition, there will be a performance by the Ancient Mariners Fife and Drum Corps and presentations by two troupes of Morris Dancers. Not for Joe’s and Mystic Garland troupes of Morris Dancers as part of the Stationery Parade. 
• 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Awards Dinner at Ocean Beach Park (ticketed event). U.S. Coast Guard Academy Idlers singing group to perform and winners in the plein air painters competition to be announced. The price for a ticket is $35.00. Tickets can be purchased online by clicking the “Buy Now” button below or at The Gallery at Firehouse Square, 239 Bank Street, New London.