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The annual Patchogue Christmas Holiday Boat Parade will float again this November along the Patchogue River.
The festivities kick off on Saturday, Nov. 23, with a preview of about 40 decorated boats docked at restaurants Harbor Crab Co. and Baja Boathouse from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. A free ferry service will shuttle guests between the two locations.
This year’s theme is “A Rock Star Christmas.”
During Saturday’s preview, visitors can view the boats up close and vote for their favorites. In addition to the “People’s Choice Award” for best decked out vessel, a new “Best Music” category will be introduced this year.
The winners will be announced the following day.
The parade itself starts at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 24.
Spectators can enjoy the procession from various free public viewing spots along the Patchogue River, including Sandspit Marina at the Davis Park Ferry Terminal, the Fire Island National Seashore Watch Hill Ferry Terminal, and waterfront restaurants such as Baja Boathouse, Harbor Crab Co., The Oar Steak & Seafood Grille, and Drift 82. Santa Claus will also make an appearance.
From 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., paradegoers can tune into WUSB 90.1 FM, which will be broadcasting Christmas music to match this year’s theme.
The Patchogue Christmas Boat Parade has been running since 1996, when it traditionally took place the Sunday before Thanksgiving.
“It’s an excellent, free family evening,” said Billy Kaiser, committee chair of the Patchogue River Christmas Boat Parade Association.
For updates on the festivities, follow the boat parade’s official Facebook page.
Last year’s photos
Top: Photos from last year’s boat parade, taken by Andrew Theodorakis, owner of Yellow House Images.
