Three decades of faith and fellowship: Blessing of the Inlet returns to Murrells Inlet
April 24, 2026
Belin Memorial United Methodist Church will host its 30th annual Blessing of the Inlet on Saturday, May 2 from 9 am to 2 pm, celebrating three decades of community worship, local food, and fellowship.
The festival, which has grown from a local tradition into a major regional event, is designed to generate funds for various missions, charities, and nonprofit organizations across the South Strand. The day’s events are centered around the church’s focus on the residents and culture of the Murrells Inlet area.
The hallmark of the festival, the “Blessing” ceremony, begins at 10 am in front of the cross overlooking the inlet. Pastors Will Malambri and Sandra Stevens Poirel will administer the blessing, which honors the community and the natural beauty of the region. 
Following the ceremony, the festival offers a full day of entertainment, including:
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Local Flavors: Food from various Murrells Inlet restaurants and local purveyors.
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Artisans: Numerous arts and crafts vendors showcasing regional work.
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Family Fun: A dedicated children’s play area featuring games and events for all ages.
The event is free to the public, with no charges for admission or parking. The festival is held rain or shine, and organizers emphasize that the event remains a celebration of faith and community gratitude.
The church is located at 4182 US-17 Business in Murrells Inlet. More information and specific event schedules can be found at belinumc.org/blessing.
