Celebrating on the Great Lakes

Summer Sailstice is coming again. Founded in February 2001 by John Arndt as a global celebration of sailing, it is held annually on the weekend nearest the summer solstice, which in 2025 is June 21-22. Here are some of the events planned for the 25th anniversary:

The Great Lakes are a group of five interconnected freshwater lakes located between the United States and Canada and contain almost one-fifth of the Earth’s surface freshwater. America’s “Freshwater Coast” is popular among sailors, and Summer Sailstice is no exception.

We’ve got five Great Lake Public Summer Sailstice Events planned so far … and you’re invited!

Just click on the event below and find the “Join This Event” button to let these sailing clubs and organizations know you’ll be coming. It’s that easy! And it’s not too late to to enter your own groups’s plan, whether you’re on a Great Lake or any other body of water. It’s a Great way to showcase your benefits for potential members!

• Monroe Boat Club: Sailors and Power Fleet will celebrate the Sailstice on Lake Erie in Michigan. MBC will be open to the general public for food, fun and bands under the big tent! Learn about the Club’s on-the-water activities and check out the fleet. – Details

• Oak Orchard Yacht Club: The public is invited for an Open House and boat rides with members on Lake Ontario during Summer Sailstice. Get all the info on the family-oriented club for boaters of all experience levels that offers a learn to sail program, Thursday night races and special events at the Clubhouse. – Details

• Catawba Island Club: Sailors and friends are invited to sail the Lake Erie Islands on Summer Sailstice and gather afterward with a cookout and camaraderie at the Club. – Details

• Sandusky Sailing Club: The plan is to leave Sandusky, OH on June 20 for a weekend cruise out in Ontario, Canada and then continue west to the northern end of Lake Huron. The flotilla will spend four to eight weeks exploring the area. What a great way to make an extended journey, buddy boating with friends! – Details

• Milwaukee Community Sailing Center: This facility offers sailing programs and boats for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy Lake Michigan and learn to sail, regardless of their financial situation. Members enjoy unlimited sailing and the opportunity to learn, build skills, make new friends, and create community. MCSC will feature an Open House and free boat rides during Summer Sailstice. – Details

For a complete list of events, click here.