What: Blessing of the Waves is an event for anyone and everyone, all ages, all faiths. Come bless the waves with us as we focus for a moment on the importance of water and the environment in all our lives. Join Mayor Harper and other community leaders as we celebrate life through music, song and dance.


The 7th Annual Paddle-Out will conclude the event with hundreds surfers of taking to the water. The event also launches the city's first Compassionate Games held Sept. 11 through 21 - activities designed to make communities safer, kinder, more just, and a better place to live. Representatives will announce details at the Blessing of the Waves.


When: Sunday, September 7 at 8:30 a.m. at Pier Plaza


Who: Many local and regional special guests will speak, reflect, and pray at the event. Those speaking will be honored with a Special Achievement Award including:

  • Keynote Speaker: Rev. Kevin W. Vann, JCD, DD - Bishop, Diocese of Orange
  • Olympian Janet Evans - Greatest female distance swimmer in history will receive the "Lifetime Achievement Award"
  • Rick "Rockin' Fig" Fignetti - 10 time surfing champion, Fignetti has done so much for the surf industry - locally to internationally and will receive the "Surf Culture Champion Award."

Other guests and representatives include: Fr. Christian Mondor (who recently celebrated his 70th anniversary of priesthood), Pastor Sumo, Huntington Beach Jr. Lifeguards, Golden West Swim Team, Huntington Beach Marine Safety Division, 100 Years of Surfing Committee, Visit HB, City of Huntington Beach elected officials and staff, all previous Mayors of Huntington Beach, all pastors, clergy and rabbi's from the community, and a variety of celebrities.

Why: Organized by the Huntington Beach Interfaith Council, this is a life celebration and all are invited to participate. The Blessing of the Waves was originally conceived as a Catholic led event through the Diocese of Orange prior to the Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council assuming responsibly in 2013.