The weather outside looked frightful, but that didn’t stop the 19 boaters who participated in the Holiday Boat Light Parade on Lake Lanier in early December. Throughout the day, organizer Richard Pickering kept boat captains informed and, by marshaling time, the rain had stopped.
“Nineteen boats showed up out of the 26 who registered, and we had an incredible time,” Pickering said. “The fog and mist set in but everyone had on their running lights so we had a very safe parade. And the boats all looked spectacular.”
The US Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 29 at Lake Lanier provided marshaling for the parade.
Parade participants gathered in front of Port Royale, then traveled past Aqualand, down Big Creek to University Yacht Club, past Holiday Lazy Days and Holiday Marina before heading back to Port Royale where decorated boats docked. The post-parade awards party was held at Pelican Pete’s.
Here are the winners: John Grobe, grand prize; Amy Sue Looby, most festive; Anthony Bosley, best theme; AJ Smith, most decorated; Nicole Tierney, best crew; Jenny Decelles, best pontoon; Taylor Grimsley, best classic boat; Ken Eggers, best yacht; CY Smith, best cruiser; Tom Stepnowski, grand sponsor award.
The event raised funds for The Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes. Donations are being accepted at www.GeorgiaSheriffsYouthHomes.org.
Scenes from the 2023 Holiday Boat Light Parade.
Photos: provided by Amy Looby
