L.A. Harbor Holiday Boat Parade Celebrates 63rd Year
Spectators lined the Port of Los Angeles’ Main Channel, stretching from San Pedro to Wilmington, on Saturday evening, Dec. 7, to watch the popular Holiday Boat Parade.
A 63-Year-Old Tradition
The annual extravaganza, which has become a holiday staple in the Harbor Areas, featured some 50 vessels of various kinds, shapes, and sizes — all decorated and lighted for the festivities. The parade included the port’s majestic tall ships, powerboats, sailboats, and the harbor’s working craft. The event is co-sponsored by the Port of Los Angeles and the Cabrillo Beach Yacht Club.
Community Leaders Join the Fun
Riding on the vessels were community leaders who served as judges or passengers on around 50 parade boats. For the port community, it wouldn’t be Christmas without the waterside celebration — during which decorated boats stretch about one mile, creating a spectacular view.
A Tradition Born in the Early 1960s
Dubbed "Christmas Afloat," the original parade was inspired by an informal group of boaters who decorated their vessels with Christmas lights and cruised down the channel shouting yuletide greetings to those on shore in December 1962. More than 50 boats participated in a formalized San Pedro event the following year, as dignitaries and judges sat on a floating review stand to rate the entries.
Famous Participants Over the Years
There have also been some famous participants. Actor Preston Foster, who starred as Capt. John Herrick in the televised drama "Waterfront" during the 1954-55 season, was among the judges in 1965. The series was often filmed in the Port of Los Angeles. Cast members from the show "Leave it to Beaver" (1957-63) were the grand marshals in 1993 for the 30th annual parade. In 1994, actor Buddy Ebsen of "Beverly Hillbillies" and "Barnaby Jones" fame — and a Palos Verdes Estates resident — served as the grand marshal.
Award Categories and Winners
Boat parade award categories included Theme, Children’s Choice, and the Grand Marshal’s Award. Yacht clubs and marinas competed for the coveted Perpetual Trophy, awarded to the club/marina with the most entries.
Conclusion
The L.A. Harbor Holiday Boat Parade is a beloved tradition that brings the community together to celebrate the holiday season. With its rich history, stunning displays, and festive atmosphere, it’s an event that’s not to be missed.
FAQs
Q: When is the L.A. Harbor Holiday Boat Parade held?
A: The parade takes place on a Saturday evening in December.
Q: How many boats participate in the parade?
A: Around 50 vessels of various kinds, shapes, and sizes participate in the parade.
Q: Who are the organizers of the parade?
A: The Port of Los Angeles and the Cabrillo Beach Yacht Club co-sponsor the event.
Q: How long has the parade been held?
A: The parade has been held for 63 years, dating back to the early 1960s.
