While most lighted boat parades conjure visions of festive vessels bedecked in lights during the holiday season, and chilly weather on the Chesapeake Bay, Havre de Grace has turned the concept on its head. The upcoming Waterfront Festival on September 8-9, 2023, promises a two-day extravaganza at Concord Point Park, highlighted by the Waterfront Festival’s crown jewel, the End-of-Summer Lighted Boat Parade, commencing on Friday evening at 5 pm. Spectators can line the shoreline, gather at local restaurants, or join the festivities at Concord Point Park to witness a stunning display of creativity as illuminated boats glide through the bay’s waters. The accompaniment of lively steel drum music, an array of vendors, food trucks, and a beer garden amplifies the festive ambiance for everyone’s delight.
Saturday’s schedule (3 pm – 9 pm) brings a continuation of the celebration at Concord Point Park, where attendees can revel in live music, indulge in diverse culinary offerings from food trucks, and explore a variety of vendor stalls. Families can partake in engaging kids’ activities and boat tours, while the daring acrobatics of The Pirates of the Colombian Caribbean, featuring their awe-inspiring Wheel of Destiny and High Wire Acts, promise to be a thrilling spectacle.
Culminating the Waterfront Festival is a grand fireworks display slated to commence at 8 pm on Saturday. This brilliant visual spectacle will light up the night sky, painting it with vibrant hues and intricate patterns, bidding adieu to the festival in a blaze of glory. Unlike the typical imagery of holiday lights adorning boats amidst winter’s chill, Havre de Grace’s parade is a testament to the charm of warm weather festivities.
Boat owners eager to participate in the 3rd Annual End-of-Summer Lighted Boat Parade can register online at http://boatparadehdg.eventbrite.com/ or by contacting the Havre de Grace Visitor Center at 410-939-2100. The parade’s competition features five distinct categories: Best Decorated Sailboat, Best Decorated Powerboat, Best Use of Lights, Most Original, and Judges’ Choice. The victors will not only bask in the glory of triumph but will also receive a trophy, a $50 Visa card, and four tickets to any Rock the Star Centre event, collectively valued at $200.
With a proud tradition now entering its third year, the Havre de Grace Waterfront Festival’s End-of-Summer Lighted Boat Parade promises an extraordinary celebration that skillfully blends the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay with the spirit of a community rejoicing in the end of summer, all under the dazzling spectacle of illuminated boats and fireworks.
