By Becky Maxedon
For the 43rd year, the Bridgewater Channel will sparkle with boats adorned in their very best holiday attire.
The Boat Parade of Lights takes place Saturday night and according to event organizer JJ Gibbs, there are about 40 boats ready to sail by the crowds gathered on the banks of the channel.
Gibbs took the wheel of the parade in 2020 after the Lake Havasu Yacht Club bowed out.
“This year’s event includes the addition of an extended parade route that covers the Rotary Beach areas. Also, this year, we’ve added a Friday night dock glow event for the community to come preview some of the parade floats the night before,” Gibbs said.
Havasu Riviera Marina is hosting the Night Glow event from 5 to 9 p.m.
Activities will include cookie and ornament decorating, letters to Santa and hot chocolate.
Entry fee to the event is $20 per vehicle, or complimentary with an unwrapped toy donation.
In addition to the added event, Ballet Havasu will be performing “The Nutcracker” Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 4 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m., at Rotary Community Park. Admission is free, but a donation is suggested.
All the local eateries and businesses located along Bridgewater Channel will be open.
Boat #17, Tiny Toot, participates in the 2023 Boat Parade of Lights in Lake Havasu City Saturday evening. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
The event Saturday night is from 6 to 10 p.m., and admission is free.
Free parking is available at the English Village, Rotary Community Park, London Bridge Beach and Lake Havasu State Park.
No woodburning fires are allowed at any of the beaches or at Lake Havasu State Park. Propane firepits are allowed at all parks.
This year’s event sponsors include Anderson Auto and Powersports Group, Barrett Custom Marine, London Bridge Resort and Havasu Riviera Marina.
“Without them, this year’s parade wasn’t going to happen,” Gibbs said.
For more information, visit 2024 Lake Havasu City Boat Parade of Lights on Facebook.
Boat #24 Dale and Lisa Hinrichs participate in the 2023 Boat Parade of Lights. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Boat #4 won Best In Show. The Luebke Family participates in the 2023 Boat Parade of Lights in Lake Havasu City. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
The Mohave County Sherriff’s hand out candy canes before the Boat Parade of Lights Saturday evening. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Thank you JJ Gibbs for keep this tradition alive in Havasu. All your time & organizing is greatly appreciated by many people. This is quite an accomplishment. Thank you!❤️🎄🎉