Annual boat parade celebrates quarter of a century

Seafarers here in Alexandria are looking ahead to being part of this year's 25th Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights coming in early December.

As has been the tradition in past years, more than 50 boats will take part in the one-mile cruise along the shoreline of the Potomac River.

Boat awards will go to Best in Show, Best Powerboat, Best Sailboat, Thinking Outside the Christmas Box, Most Holiday Cheer, Best Movie/TV Theme, Most Spirited Crew, Best Theme, Hardiest Soul, and Best Try. Winners of awards like this often have pictures duplicated at nearby Print shops for their homes, businesses, and relatives.

Those who register their crafts must attend the Alexandria Captain's Safety Meeting, pick up their parade number Signs and display them on their boats, decorate boats with lights and Christmas themes, and arrive at the designated area and time. Each captain will receive a $100 Amazon gift card to help defray expenses. This year's registration will close on November 14.

Old Town Alexandria Waterfront Park will hold holiday festivities from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm, including food, activities for the kids and a pop-up beer garden.

Some boat slips will be available at the Alexandria City Marina for those boaters wishing to attend the fun at Waterfront Park. These must be reserved with registration.

The parade will travel by the Alexandria waterfront at 444 Canal Center Plaza on Saturday, December 6, beginning at 5:30 PM.

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