Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade 2008

Those of you lucky enough to spend the holiday season in sunny southern California have the opportunity to see one of the most spectacular Christmas events in America, the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. I dig Newport Beach on any given day with the longboard surfers and great pizza deals, so I’m sure a parade day would be truly impressive. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the event, making it an even bigger deal than usual.

According to the press release, “The parade has been described as the aquatic equivalent to the Pasadena Tournament of Roses.” Those are big shoes to fill.

The event kicks off on Wednesday, December 17 (with a not-to-be-missed inaugural fireworks display) and continues through Sunday, December 21 at 6:30pm. The lighted display begins each evening in Newport Harbor, then meanders the 14 miles around the harbor to give viewers in restaurants, yacht clubs, on public beaches, and in private homes an incredible sight.

The parade features an armada of nearly 100 kayaks, canoes, yachts and other watercraft. Many of the yachts are decorated with whimsical animated scenes accompanied by music and costumed carolers, plus every conceivable lighting fixture or illuminated decoration. If any of you yachties needs a spare caroler, I’d like to offer my services.

For more information on where to find the best views of the parade, go to visitnewportbeach.com or christmasboatparade.com.