Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival 2026

Two of the most popular events at the WBF every year are the Friday and Saturday
evening Shanty Sessions that get going in the Marina Room at 7:00 p.m. A
crowded and friendly hall full of people singing with enthusiasm is an experience
you don’t forget easily! We call these “Shanty” sessions but the songs that get
sung go well beyond the simple work songs that are true shanties. There are also
traditional songs sung by sailors for entertainment in the days of sail and there are
more recently composed songs that evoke all aspects of the maritime life. All of
these songs and music fall under the umbrella of Maritime Music and the WBF, in
conjunction with Maritime Folknet, is proud to present programs and performances
of Maritime Music as a part of the culture and history of the sea.