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August 4, 2011

Happy 221st, Coast Guard! Let’s party.

By Patty Jenkins
The Virginian-Pilot
© August 4, 2011

In honor of the United States Coast Guard’s 221st birthday, the city of Portsmouth will host a celebration today through Saturday.

In 2009, Congress dubbed Portsmouth an official Coast Guard City, making it the ninth in the country to hold the distinction.

“100 Years of Flying” is this year’s theme celebrating Coast Guard, Navy and Marine aviation. The event kicks off today at 6 a.m. with free birthday cake – 221 pieces of cake, to be exact – at Starboards Coffee Kiosk, 101 High St.

Events are free, except where indicated.

TODAY

“Coast Guard Art & Aviation,” exhibit. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Skipjack Nautical Wares & Marine Gallery, High Street on the riverfront.

“Recollections of a Pioneer,” audiovisual presentation with Sergei Sikorsky. 11 a.m. Commodore Theatre, 421 High St. Lunch available for purchase (kitchen closes at 11:45 a.m.).

First Responders BBQ and Slaw Throwdown. 5-8 p.m. at North Landing off of Crawford Parkway. $15, $12 with Coast Guard ID.

FRIDAY

“Coast Guard Art & Aviation,” exhibit. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Concert in the Courtyard featuring Robbin Thompson. 5-8 p.m. Courthouse Galleries, 420 High St.

Coast Guard vessels on display from 5-8 p.m.

SATURDAY

Coast Guard City Century & Historical Waterfront Bike Tour. 7 a.m. Race check-in and registration begins at 6 a.m. at Virginia Sports Hall of Fame, 206 High St. $25-$45. Register at www.cgcc.eventbrite.com.

Street Festival. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. along High Street and Crawford Parkway, featuring rides, slides and family fun. Includes demonstrations, displays and guided tours.

Closing ceremony featuring Coast Guard Honor Guard, aircraft flyover, and speakers from local, state and federal levels. 5-6 p.m.

MORE INFO

Find a full schedule at www.coastguardcityportsmouth.com or call the Portsmouth Visitor Information Center at (757) 393-5111.