The annual Lighted Boat Parade returns to the waters of Vallejo on December 2, 2023, following the city’s festive Mad Hatter Parade. Organized by the Vallejo Yacht Club, this event allows boat enthusiasts to showcase their holiday spirit by decorating their vessels with dazzling lights. Elvin Valverde, the club’s former Commodore, expressed enthusiasm for the tradition, stating, “It’s a fun way to see Christmas lights and boats at the same time, which are a lot of people’s two favorite things.”
As the historic club recently celebrated its 125-year anniversary, the Lighted Boat Parade serves as a testament to its enduring connection with the community and the boating lifestyle. Valverde highlighted the significance of the event: “It’s a long-standing tradition with a lot of yacht clubs to do a lighted boat parade at Christmas time.” He humorously noted his two-decade involvement with the club, quipping that the parade has likely existed since the introduction of Christmas lights for boats.
Innovative Features and Community Spirit
In a recent addition to the parade, the club has incorporated a choreographed element, dubbed the “dancing boats.” This feature allows participating vessels to turn in unison, adding a dynamic aspect to the procession. “The crowds enjoy it, and we enjoy doing it, so everybody wins,” Valverde remarked.
The Lighted Boat Parade not only showcases the club’s internal community but also encourages boaters to take to the water during a season when they might typically stay ashore. “Everybody loves to get out on their boat,” Valverde said, emphasizing that the parade is a perfect excuse to enjoy the waterways at this time of year.
Every year, the parade attracts a growing audience, with spectators lining the shore to witness the illuminated vessels. Following the boat parade, attendees are invited to the club’s open house from 18:30 to 21:00 at the clubhouse. This event features warm drinks, cookies, and opportunities for conversation, reinforcing the club’s commitment to community engagement. Valverde noted, “It’s a community, and we have people from all different parts of our society involved — it’s good, and we want to share it.”
Event Details and Community Impact
The Lighted Boat Parade will commence at the waterfront near the Vallejo Ferry Building, located at 485 Mare Island Way, at 18:30. As the evening unfolds, the illuminated boats will create a beautiful spectacle against the night sky, celebrating both the holiday season and the camaraderie of local boating enthusiasts.
Vallejo’s Lighted Boat Parade not only highlights the festive spirit of the season but also strengthens the bonds within the community, making it a cherished annual event for residents and visitors alike.
