Twinkling strings of light from dozens of 15- to 100-foot boats will illuminate the water in San Diego Bay this year celebrating the theme, “Peace On Earth.”
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, in its 54th year, will return on Dec. 8 and Dec. 15 to showcase approximately 100 festive water vessels to thousands of spectators.
The boat displays can be viewed from multiple locations on both dates, beginning at Shelter Island at 5:30 p.m. and ending at the Coronado Ferry Landing at 7:45 p.m. The rest of the route includes Harbor Island at 6:15 p.m., the North and South Embarcadero areas at 6:45 p.m., Seaport Village at 7:15 p.m. and Cesar Chavez Park Pier at 7:30 p.m.
Larry Baumann, chairman of the 54th annual event, said the parade, which was voted the No. 9 Best Holiday Parade nationwide for the past two years by USA TODAY 10Best, is the boating community’s gift to San Diego and has the support of dozens of volunteers.
“The Port of San Diego is proud to sponsor the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights,” said Frank Urtasun, the Port’s Chairman in a statement. “It’s so important to continue to support such a beloved event that brings the community together to celebrate the holidays along our beautiful waterfront. It is my sincere hope that everyone has a safe and peaceful holiday season.”
“We do this for the public and we greatly appreciate that they enjoy it,” added Baumann.
‘Peace on Earth’
Baumann said a committee makes a theme selection that is feasible for the boaters to illuminate with decorations.
Last December participants decorated watercraft to the theme of “Christmas Traditions Around the World” with displays of crosses, Santa’s sleigh and Christmas tree figures.
“When we look at the world, boy, we certainly all wish for that,” said Baumann about this year’s theme. “I was proud of the committee coming up with that idea.”
Baumann said up to 10 vessels receive awards annually, as decided by judges and spectators.
“The boats, not only are they decorated beautifully but they have great music and I think the interaction between the spectators and the participants are a big key,” Baumann said.
Baumann added that spectators should plan ample time to deal with heavy traffic and find parking.
“I love watching families with kids, it’s so exciting … the kids just have so much fun watching the parade,” he said.
Baumann said the police estimated there were 150,000 visitors who witnessed the parade last year.
“We want people to enjoy it and along with that, we need them to be patient,” he noted. “Remember that this is a joyous time of the year.”
In a release, organizers also ask attendees to “help keep the event safe by reporting any suspicious activity to the Harbor Police.”
Open alcoholic beverages are prohibited along parade viewing areas. Drones and other unmanned aircraft systems are also banned.
Baumann said the committee who plans the annual event will meet in January to begin planning for the parade set to take place on the first and second Sunday in December next year.
