TONIGHT: 25th Annual Halloween Boat Burning

The Long Island Maritime Museum’s 25th Annual Boat Burning will take place on Friday, Oct. 30 from 5-9 p.m. The rain date is Sunday, Nov. 1 The Boat Burning, which is held on the grounds of the museum, which is located at 86 West Avenue in West Sayville, marks the height of fall with an event for the entire family. Admission will be $5 with children under 5 free.

Each year, the Museum receives a donation of a large, wooden boat that is in a condition of being beyond repair. Loosely based on the Norse tradition of a Viking Funeral, the boat is placed in the center of the museum’s property and set ablaze by the West Sayville Fire Department to the delight of the many families in attendance.

“This unique annual event has become a fall tradition in our community,” said the Museum’s Executive Director Steve Jones. “In addition to hosting Long Island’s largest bonfire, it’s a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase the outstanding work that our boat shop volunteers do, by raffling off one of their beautiful creations.”

This year’s raffle boat is a handmade 11’ carvel planked rowing skiff. Raffle tickets are $5 a piece or (5) for $20 and can be purchased right up until the time of the drawing. Tickets are also available for purchase prior to the event.

Attendees are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes. Quarterhorse, a favorite local band, will be performing live music beneath the East Gazebo and food and beverages will be on hand for all to enjoy!