Family traditions rule the holidays, and Lake Havasu City has its very own traditions, including the ever popular Boat Parade of Lights. Although the Yacht Club initially cancelled the event, Havasu citizen JJ Gibbs will be taking on overseeing the 36th annual boat parade to continue the Havasu tradition.

The Boat Parade of Lights features holiday-themed boats gliding through the Bridgewater Channel. This will be the first time the parade has been organized by citizens, and Gibbs hints that it may not be the last.

So far, about 25 participants have registered their boats to be a part of the parade, although Gibbs is permitted up to 50. So boat owners should consider decorating a festive display and join the parade with crowd favorites such as Tiny Toot and the sailboat floats. Gibbs says he would like to make it to at least 30 participants for the best show possible.

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The Boat Parade of Lights is a free event, both for spectators and participants. Be sure to take proper precautions by maintaining a distance of six feet apart and wearing a mask for the event. This year, the parade will be one night only, Saturday Dec. 5, at 7 p.m. There will be prizes for some of the standout decorations.

To register or for more information about this year’s Parade of Lights, contact Gibbs at 928-486-7063; email   jj_gibbs@hotmail.com ;  and the Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/groups/246654249914414

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