Press Room

Announcing Bath Fest 2010

Saturday, May 15^th

11 am – 4 pm

From the ringing of the town crier’s bell to the crack of the croquet mallets, Bath Fest will resonate with activity as art and history meet on May 15 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. Historic Bath will host art and craft vendors, musical performances, and the annual Cut-Throat Croquet Tournament all within the backdrop of beautiful Bath Creek.  This year’s theme – “Lost and Found History” holds much mystery and promises much fun!  Even the queen will grace the event as some cast members from North Carolina’s longest running outdoor drama, The Lost Colony, will tell the story of Roanoke Island’s ill-fated colony. Underwater archeologists will present artifacts found on the wreck of Blackbeard’s flagship, the Queen Anne’s Revenge and share tales of her demise in Beaufort harbor.

Participants and spectators can enjoy the popular Cut-Throat Croquet Tournament on the green beside the Bonner House.  Players may register in advance by calling 252-940-6218 or on site between 9:30 and 10:30 am the day of the event. (However, pre-registration is strongly encouraged.) Registration fees are $35 for players and $15 for spectators, both of which include food and beverages. Standard white croquet dress is preferred but not required. Each year, proceeds from the croquet tournament are used to provide the Dorothy “Dot” and John Tankard Scholarship at Beaufort County Community College and to further the preservation of the Bath Historic Site. Both causes, to which, the Tankards were so dedicated.

Bath will once again be overrun by pirates as members of the stage combat group, The Shadow Players, take to the streets brandishing their swords. To get in on the fun, adults and children are all encouraged to wear their best pirate gear – prizes will be awarded for the best swagger!  Bath Fest is a Town of Bath event and is supported in part by funds from Beaufort County Government administered by the Beaufort County Arts Council. 

As art and history meet there will be fun for all ages with children’s activities including an “archeological dig” for fossils, a petting zoo, giant bubble making, art from students from Bath Elementary, hands-on activities, and a treasure hunt!  All of the events will be held along the waterfront of Bath Creek at Bonner’s Point. Bath community organizations will sell baked goods, snacks, and more.  Throughout the day local art and craft vendors will demonstrate their skills and sell their wares as the sounds of traditional music fill the air compliments of the Beaufort County Traditional Music Association.

In recognition of Tourism Week, there will be free admission to Historic Bath’s Palmer–Marsh House and the Bonner House.  History will come alive as costumed interpreters tell the story of the former owners and Bath’s past.  

For more information call 252-923-5181.