Cold oysters and bay breezes countered the hot temps of Saturday afternoon as HarborFest was once again celebrated at Rockwell Park.

The event included a Blessing of the Fleet and the dedication of the Spc. Michael Andrade Boardwalk, both presided over by Fr. Henry Zinno of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. The Coast Guard was on hand, as well as the Bristol Fire and Police Departments, which both had their vessels on display on the transient dock. Organizations including the Bristol Christmas Festival, the Bristol Conservation Commission, Save Bristol Harbor, and the Lions Club were well represented, promoting their activities and upcoming events. The highlight of the day was, as always, the traditional clam boil, with quahogs donated by Galilean Seafood — through the volunteer clam and oyster shuckers may have been the busiest people at the park.

“It was a great day to see the community come out,” said Auxiliary Harbormaster Melissa Benevides Vance. “And we raised $3,250, which helped us reach our goal to purchase a trash skimmer for the harbor.”

“The event would not be truly successful without Gregg (Marsili, the Harbormaster), and all the volunteers, made up of Harbor Patrol, friends, and local fishermen, who come down each year.”