The Blessing of the Inlet will celebrate its 27th anniversary as one of the area’s most revered festivals. A free event with no admission or parking charge and always held rain or shine, this year’s edition will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 6 in Murrells Inlet.

The Blessing of the Inlet was originally created as an event filled with worship, food, fun and fellowship that is highlighted by a “Blessing” ceremony. The Blessing of the Inlet generates funds

for many missions, charities and nonprofit organizations, enhancing the lives of Murrells Inlet residents and those in the surrounding South Strand.

The festival has grown to include a day of entertainment, with arts and crafts vendors, various Murrells Inlet restaurants and local food purveyors, and a children’s play area with games and fun

events for the entire family.

The Blessing of the Inlet ceremony, to start at 10 a.m., will be administered by the Reverend Will Malambri, the Reverend Isaac Dusenbury and Pastor JT Brown, both from the Belin Memorial

United Methodist Church, the hosting church.