Yacht Club gives tips for Parade of Lights boats

As the 41st annual Canyon Lake holiday Parade of Lights draws near, the Canyon Lake Yacht Club is offering helpful tips for boat owners preparing their parade entries. The event, the oldest lighted boat parade in the Inland Empire, is a highlight of Canyon Lake’s holiday season and will take place Dec. 9..

Vice Commodore Rob Mora, a director of this year’s parade, emphasized that while elaborate designs are impressive, the essence of the parade is in the simple joy of participating.

“The real fun comes from just putting some decorations on your boat and joining the parade,” Rob said. “We’re trying to help every boat owner and their family and friends have a great night on the water with dozens of other lighted boats as part of the parade.”

He also shared that an effective strategy is to design parade entries that can be easily transferred from golf carts to boats, a concept demonstrated in the club’s recent decorating clinic.

Photos provided by Commodore Ron Wilbur

Rob and Lainie Cooney, known for their “Gum Drop Good” floating gingerbread house, are examples of how creative yet simple attachments can efficiently move designs from golf carts to boats. Co-director Brian Oltman shared his enthusiasm for the event, mentioning his “Choo Choo Train” boat and the excitement it brings to spectators along the shore.

Rob encouraged all boat owners to experience the parade from the water, highlighting the community’s joy and the festive atmosphere it creates. He also stressed the importance of participating boats following the lead boat and not breaking away during the parade to maintain safety and order.

Volunteers are available to assist with boat decorations, and those interested in helping can contact Rob directly. The Yacht Club has outlined the schedule for the parade:

1. Boats gather at East Port boat launch at 5:00 p.m.
2. Parade starts at 5:30 p.m.
3. Holiday Harbor Park activities, including free chili, hot dogs, and a visit from Santa, from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
4. Parade continues around Main Lake after an intermission at Holiday Harbor, passing Big Bass Cove, Catfish Cove, and Happy Camp.
5. The parade concludes at Holiday Harbor for the announcement of awards and additional festivities.

Participation in the parade is free, but registration is required for safety reasons. The registration form is available at the Canyon Lake Yacht Club website. For further details, contact Commodore Ron Wilbur at commodore@canyonlakeyachtclub.com.