Tall Ships Erie Seeks Volunteers for Massive Visitor Rush

A Community Effort to Bring Tall Ships Erie to Life

Tall Ships Erie is a rare and exciting event that draws attention from across the region. While it doesn’t happen every year, the anticipation is growing as the festival approaches. This year, the event is expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors, especially since neighboring cities like Cleveland and Buffalo are not hosting similar events. However, this surge in interest also means that more volunteers are needed to help make the festival a success.

Billy Sabatini, President & CEO of Tall Ships Erie, emphasized the importance of community involvement. “It takes the entire community to put on an event like this, and this is a way for us to highlight our community,” he said. “We need hundreds of volunteers to make it happen.”

Volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring that everything runs smoothly during the festival. From ticket sales to managing lines, from bookkeeping to serving drinks, there are numerous opportunities for people to contribute. “If you have a bookkeeping background or work in a bank, we’d love to have you come do that,” Sabatini added. “We also need people helping with drinks, just selling soda and beer, and water.”

Currently, about 100 volunteers have signed up, but the goal is to reach 300. Those who volunteer will receive free tickets to the event, a free t-shirt, and a front-row view of all the action on the water. It’s a rewarding experience that allows participants to be part of something truly special.

Impact on Daily Life and Transportation

The event also brings some changes to daily life in Erie. PennDOT has announced that part of State Street will be closed, which may affect transportation and bayfront activities. Visitors and residents should plan accordingly to avoid any disruptions.

For many volunteers, the festival is more than just a job—it’s a chance to show pride in their community. “When tens of thousands of people show up, you can be here to say ‘Welcome,’” Sabatini said. “It’s about pride in who we are as a community and helping to showcase just how wonderful of a place it is to live right here in Erie, Pennsylvania.”

A Unique Experience for All

From August 21st to 24th, the bayfront will come alive with a variety of ships, vendors, and live music. Volunteers like Pat Federici and Dutch Noll have been involved for years and continue to enjoy the experience.

“I’ve been doing it for a long time; it keeps me active in my retirement. It’s just a lot of fun, and I’ve learned things that I never thought I would learn,” said Federici.

Noll shared a similar sentiment: “It’s a unique opportunity for people to experience a thing that isn’t common anywhere else in this commonwealth.”

Opportunities for Everyone

Whether you’re looking for a new hobby, a way to give back, or simply a chance to see something one-of-a-kind, volunteering for Tall Ships Erie offers something for everyone. The event is still accepting vendors for its “maritime marketplace,” and there’s still time to sign up as a volunteer.

“Number one, the event needs you. Number two, you will benefit from being at the event,” said Noll. “Come on down. There’s tons of things you can do. There’s all kinds of skills that come into play,” added Federici.

Sabatini urged anyone interested in getting involved to take part. “Please, volunteer, help us out, showcase your city, showcase your region, and show the rest of the tall ships world that we are the center of sail training in this country.”

If you're interested in joining the effort, visit the Tall Ships Erie website to sign up. Your contribution could make a big difference in bringing this incredible event to life.