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Model Boat Building and Regatta
Chairpersons: Russell Wells and Doug Park, with support from the Marblehead Model Yacht Club.
Bring the kids! Bring your folks! Build & Sail Your Very Own Boat!
These small treasures are more than just toys. They really sail! This is a fun, educational activity the whole family will enjoy.
Our model boat kits are made by hand for the Marblehead Festival of Arts by our amazing partners at
Model Boat Reservations and Purchasing
Model boat kits are $30, payable with cash or credit card on arrival at the Boat Building event.
Model boat kits are available for walk-up participants, while supplies last. However, please note that supply is limited each year, and online reservation of a boat kit is highly recommended. Reserved model boat kits can be claimed and purchased at the model boat building event check-in desk. Due to the limited kit supply, all unclaimed model boat kit reservations are voided after the model boat building event has concluded. We reserve the right to sell any unclaimed model kits after the conclusion of the model boat building event.
Boat Building
Thursday July 3rd, 2025 | 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Jeremiah Lee Mansion Gardens, 161 Washington Street
This popular event begins with a workshop where children construct and design a model sailboat at the Lee Mansion Gardens, and then sail it at Redd’s Pond competing against all the other boats! Family team participation is encouraged. Children must have adult supervision. Model boat kits can be purchased, put together, and painted anytime between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. Model boat kits are only available while supplies last. While your water-bound creation dries, families can enjoy time at other Festival attractions or have lunch in town. Then, grab your sailboat masterpiece and then head to Redd’s Pond for the annual Regatta.
Regatta
Thursday July 3rd, 2025 | 3:00 pm
Redd’s Pond | Corner of Norman and Pond Streets
The annual Model Boat Regatta is a beloved community tradition and a highlight of the Festival. Friends and families start gathering around Redd's Pond for an exciting race and a true test of all boatbuilders: to see if ye boat 'tis seaworthy! If she sails straight and true, the winner's circle may be yours!
There's no cost to enter the regatta. Just grab a spot at Redd's Pond and get ready to race! It's recommended to arrive prior to race time to grab a spot to race or watch.
We recommend arriving at the Regatta on foot. Redd's Pond is just a short walk from Crocker Park and Washington St, and is located in a residential neighborhood, so parking is extremely limited.
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