Many homes decorate for the holidays in Hawaii, just as on the mainland. Offices and stores also have lights and Christmas figures. In Hawaii, even boats get into the act. Last night there were parades of lighted boats on Oahu and Maui.
We participated in the boat parade in Kaneohe Bay, which involved boats from two yacht clubs that joined for a spin around the bay. The parade included a trip past the Marine Corps base so that youngsters could take photos. About a dozen boats were decked out with lights and holiday decorations for the annual parade. It’s an informal and loosely organized event.
Lighted boats also paraded in Hawaii Kai in the 14th Annual Festival of Lights Christmas Boat Parade. These boats competed for prizes awarded by a panel of judges. There was also a master of ceremonies to announce the boats. The parade was easily viewed from the three major shopping centers in Malani Kai, which offer free parking (or from Bruce Fisher’s lanai – great views, no free parking).
On Maui, the first Holiday Boat Parade of Lights took place along the waterfront in Lahaina. It was part of the ongoing Maui Whale Festival. Organizers expected vessels of all shapes and sizes to be decorated for the holiday season.
There may have been more boat parades. If you attended any of them, let me know! I’ll happily add to the list.
If you’re planning ahead, the Saturday before Christmas seems to be the common date for the lighted boat parades. Add it to your calendar if you will be spending winter holidays in Hawaii in 2011!
