Boston

Restored Mayflower II to Travel to Boston for First Time in May

Before heading back to Plimoth Plantion, the ship will sail into the Charlestown Navy Yard for a 6-day festival in May 2020

The Mayflower II will make its first trip to Boston Harbor since a major renovation to commemorate next year's 400th anniversary of the Pilgrims' historic 1620 voyage.

The ship, an exhibit at Plimoth Plantion, has been undergoing renovations at Mystic Seaport Museum in Connecticut since 2016.

Before heading back to Plymouth, the ship will sail into the Charlestown Navy Yard for a six-day maritime festival sponsored by Mayflower Sails 2020.

"This exciting event marks the 400th anniversary of the Pilgrims' 1620 voyage and will debut the Mayflower following her three-year, multi-million dollar restoration effort," said Stephen Brodeur, Mayflower Sails 2020 chair and founding sponsor, in a statement. "The powerful story of Native and European people who encountered one another here in Massachusetts is one of history's most well-known moments, and we will bring that story to life on a national stage at the Charlestown Navy Yard next May."

Boston is "excited" to welcome the ship into the harbor, Mayor Marty Walsh said Monday.

“This festival is a great way to kick off a decade marking Massachusetts' contributions to American history leading up to the 400th anniversary of Boston in 2030," said Walsh in the statement. "We hope that families from far and wide will visit us for this educational, cultural and entertaining experience in the Charlestown Navy Yard."

The free event takes place May 14-19, 2020, and will include tours of the ship, live music, VIP speakers, and food and beverages for purchase.

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