Parade of Lights
There’s no Christmas tradition more Annapolis than the Eastport Lights Parade. The annual procession attracts thousands to City Dock despite December weather.
he twinkling lights reflect off the harbor in a dazzling display, ready to warm the hearts of cold onlookers. Every year, many in the crowd think the same question: How would I decorate my boat?
Some boaters from parades past showcased their Maryland pride and decorated their boats with twinkling blue crabs. Others morphed their powerboats into sailboats with bright makeshift sails. Some went for classic Christmas with Santa Claus and his reindeer or a giant Christmas tree. One sailor adorned his mast with the infamous leg lamp from A Christmas Story.
The parade route takes two loops: one circles in front of Eastport, the Naval Academy seawall and City Dock; the other follows the length of Spa Creek.
The sparkling tradition draws up to 30,000 spectators with more than 40 boats. Parade organizers prepare safety briefings and tips and tricks for decorating your ride. Competitions add an extra level to this already historic parade.
Register your boat for the Lights Parade, which will be held this year on Saturday, December 8, between 6 and 8pm, rain or shine. Only high winds will force a cancellation. Register through the beginning of December, but plan ahead for prize-winning ideas: www.eastportyc.org/lights-parade