Amping Up for Lighted Boat Parades

Even in times like these, when the weather is chilly and the breeze is light, diehard sailors can still find valid reasons to fiddle around with their boats. And, this month, one of the best ways to do that is to gear up for one of the Bay Area’s many lighted boat parades.

If you’ve ever watched one of these bedazzling processions, you know how uplifting that experience can be. But just imagine how much fun it would be to be in the heart of the action. Typically, all boat types are welcome, but you do need to sign up in advance. Check out the list of possibilities below, culled from Latitude 38‘s December Calendar.

Dec. 5 — 33rd Annual Lighted Yacht Parade on the Oakland/Alameda Estuary. Starts at 5:30 p.m. Presented by Encinal YC, Oakland YC and Marina Village Yacht Harbor, this year’s theme is ‘Christmas Carols’. Find out more and enter your boat at www.lightedyachtparade.com.

Dec. 5 — South Beach YC Lighted Boat Parade from McCovey Cove to the Ferry Building, 5-7 p.m. Chili and hot buttered rum at the YC after. Info on website.

Dec. 5 — Petaluma YC Lighted Boat Parade, 5:30 p.m. Info on website or call (707) 753-1590.

Dec. 5 — Vallejo YC Harbor Lighted Boat Parade. Info on website or call (707) 643-1254.

Dec. 5 — Santa Cruz YC Lighted Boat Parade in the south harbor, 5:30 p.m. Info on website.

Dec. 5 — 30th Annual Delta Reflections Lighted Boat Parade, starting in Stockton at 5 p.m. Info on website.

Dec. 10 — San Rafael Lighted Boat Parade, 6 p.m. Info on website or call (415) 300-4510.

Dec. 11 — St. Francis YC Lighted Boat Parade, from Pier 39 to Ft. Mason, 6 p.m. Info on website.

Dec. 12 — Marina Bay Lighted Boat Parade, 6-8 p.m. Details on website or call (510) 236-1013.

Dec. 12 — Sausalito Lighted Yacht Parade along the waterfront, 6 p.m. Info on website.

Dec. 19 — 22nd Annual Holiday Boat Lighting Contest at Pillar Point, starting at 6 p.m., with a party following at Half Moon Bay YC. Info on website or call (650) 725-2120.