BLAINE, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – As boating season kicks off this weekend, a sobering reminder of the perils of open water will be taking place at the Blaine Harbor Boating Center.

The Northern Light reports the annual “Blessing of the Fleet” that looks forward to a new season while honoring local fishermen lost at sea will be celebrating its 40th anniversary.

The public ceremony will see a wreath released into Boundary Bay adorned with one flower for each local fisher who has lost their life on the water. Clergy will be on hand to lead a prayer for a safe fishing season, and live musicians will perform for the public.

The ceremony, hosted by the Fisherman’s Memorial Committee along with the Port of Bellingham and Blaine Chamber of Congress, starts at 1:30 p.m. this Sunday, May 5.