Boat Parade of Lights is just one week away

Decorative boats will be cruising the waterways next Saturday, Dec. 9, for the much anticipate Parade of Lights, an annual community event hosted by the Yacht Club.

The parade begins at the East Port boat launch ramp at 5 p.m. From there, boats will cruise the East Bay and main lake, ending at Holiday Harbor where the winners will be announced.

Residents, clubs, groups and businesses are encouraged to decorate a boat with lights and join in on the fun.

For those who need additional motivation to participate, the Yacht Club is offering the following prizes:

Sweepstakes Award (best overall boat): $125, plaque and perpetual trophy on display at POA office.

Commodore’s Award (highest score): $100 and plaque.

Best Pontoon:  1st place $100, 2nd place $50, 3rd place $25.

Best Ski Boat: 1st place $100, 2nd place $50, 3rd place $25.

Club/Civic: 1st place $100, 2nd place $50, 3rd place $25.

All boats will be recognized with a Dash Plate Award commemorating participation in the 2017 Parade of Lights.

Participants should fill out the registration form and submit it this week. Last-minute entries can sign up on the day of the parade at the East Port boat launch ramp at 4:30 p.m.

Anyone can join in the parade in an “unofficial” capacity by bringing their decorated boat to the East Port launch ramp by the start of the parade at 5 p.m. or join in along the way.

Unregistered boats will not be eligible for judging and prizes but are still welcome to participate and experience the fun of being in a colorful parade on the lake.

Bob Templeton, the Yacht Club’s past commodore, said, “Remember that your boat does not need to be the fancy-looking float that you see in the Rose Parade. Just decorate your boat with lights and join in the fun of the evening.”

For more information about the Parade of lights, contact Dave Dain at 714-580-9358, Jim Lange at 951-723-2441 or langejh@aim.com, or visit the Yacht Club’s Facebook page.