Hosted by the Friends of the St. Clair River, the free annual event celebrates one of the oldest and largest freshwater fish in the world. Even though sturgeon are classified as a threatened species, conservation efforts here in the Blue Water Area have helped them recover and thrive. Executive Director of Friends of the St. Clair River, Sheri Faust, says the species’ population growth in recent years is a testament to the health of the river’s unique environment.
Sturgeon Fest runs Saturday from 10am until 3pm at the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse Park with vendors, games, a touch tank, sturgeon cruises aboard the Huron Lady, and a sturgeon adoption program that comes with a certificate and a plush sturgeon. Plus, at the end of the festival, participants can help release over a dozen sturgeon into the St. Clair River to the sounds of an authentic Native American drum ceremony.
The Blue Water Sturgeon Festival is the organization’s largest annual fundraiser, with proceeds supporting year-round education and conservation efforts.