Lady Maryland scheduled to arrive today

The Town of Onancock is preparing to welcome residents and visitors this weekend for the “Onancock Sails Forward” celebration, a multi-day event featuring the arrival of the tall ship Lady Maryland, live entertainment, family activities, and fireworks.

In a message to residents, Town Manager Wes Wootten thanked volunteers, sponsors, local businesses, community organizations, committee members, and town staff for their efforts in organizing the event.

The festivities begin this afternoon when the Lady Maryland arrives at the Onancock Marina between 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. The vessel will be escorted into Onancock Creek by a kayak flotilla. At 4:45 p.m., Mayor Fletcher Fosque is scheduled to officially welcome the ship and open the weekend celebration. The ceremony will also include the dedication of commemorative benches installed in recognition of the occasion.

Live entertainment continues Friday with a performance by the Brasswinds Band from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Historic Onancock School.

On Saturday, activities continue throughout the day, with live music beginning at 2 p.m. at the Historic Onancock School. The celebration will conclude with a fireworks display scheduled for 9 p.m.

Town officials are advising residents and visitors to expect increased pedestrian traffic, temporary road closures, and parking restrictions throughout the weekend.

College Avenue will be closed to street parking beginning at noon Friday through midnight Saturday, and the Mount Prospect Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on both Friday and Saturday. The public boat ramp will be closed from Thursday through Sunday.

Additional parking restrictions will affect marina facilities, including closure of the main marina parking lot on Saturday and Sunday, although accessible parking will remain available. The marina parking lot adjacent to the boat ramp will also be closed from Friday through Sunday.

To help accommodate visitors, the town will operate a free shuttle service on Saturday from 2 to 5 p.m. and again from 5 to 11 p.m.

Officials are encouraging those attending Saturday night’s fireworks display to arrive early, use designated parking areas, and follow directions from event staff and law enforcement personnel. The town also noted that fireworks may affect pets and individuals with sensory sensitivities.

A complete schedule of events is available through the Town of Onancock and the Onancock Sails Forward event website.