Savinian Summer Regatta

It all started when the Empress by marriage, Empress Estine of Alesia, made the Savinian Coast in the eastern part of the empire her second domicile. Before that, the recently annexed territory was neither well integrated into the empire nor placed much importance on by the governing bodies. Since the Empress started spending a large portion of the year sailing up and down the coast and tanning on the deck of her ship in company of a very eccentric entourage, any self-respecting Alesian noble has acquired a vacationing residence on the sunny shores of Savinia.
The Empress has a deep love for the duchy and its people, who lovingly nicknamed her Innie, and she has done a lot more for them than bring added tourism. But it is mainly the seafaring that gained a massive spike in popularity and funds. To pay their respects and express their thankfulness to the Empress (and Emperor of course, no one would dare to forget him, though he is never present and notably does not have a nice nickname in Savinia) every summer upon her departure back to the capital a Regatta is held in the Empresses honour.
While the winner of the race stands to gain a position in the navy if they impress the present officials, for Empress Estine it is the side-competition of painting and decorating the boats that she greatly enjoys, personally oversees, and - with her entourage - acts as a juge for. On its twelfth year now, entire communities band together to entertain the Empress with their elaborate boat designs and original themes. Often, the boats will feature animal or nature themes, honour the gods or can even make a satirical statement. Nothing is off limits during the regatta. Past winners have been invited to decorate the Empresses Savinian Estate, or have gained full-time employment, a free wish and other favours. While the winners of the racing portion are often quickly forgotten, the prizes of the decorating event have been lifechanging for entire villages more than once.
The Summer Regatta has long evolved into a days-long festival accompanied by fairs and markets and even salespeople outside the duchy will make sure to not miss it.