Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Freeport’s cherished tradition — the annual Holiday Boat Parade — returned to the Nautical Mile on Saturday evening, bringing festive cheer to residents and visitors.
The evening began with a Christmas tree-lighting ceremony at the Freeport Recreation Center at 6 p.m., followed by a second tree lighting on the Nautical Mile Esplanade at 6:30 p.m.
The much-anticipated boat parade set sail at 7 p.m., as beautifully decorated vessels illuminated the waterways, captivating the crowd.
The boats, dazzling with colorful lights and festive themes, lined up at Woodcleft Canal before embarking on their journey through Randall Bay.
Spectators filled the Nautical Mile, as well as key spots like Waterfront Park and Seabreeze Park, to enjoy the breathtaking views.
The boat parade, which first launched in 2007, was inspired by Al Grover, a well-known Freeport resident who returned from Florida, where boat parades are a popular holiday tradition.
Ilona Jagnow, a long-time resident and owner of Otto’s Sea Grill, who played a major role in getting the event off the ground in its early years, also spoke about the way the parade has changed Freeport over the years.
“It was really nice to see the community come together and embrace this… a lot of people used to put their boats away early, and now they’re keeping it out for the party and for the parade.”
Party boats, including Captain Lou’s Starstream, offered attendees a chance to join the parade for a fee, creating a unique and memorable experience.
Ken Dookram, president of the Freeport Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the event’s positive impact on local businesses. “It’s another opportunity where Freeport gets together,” he said. “You can go down, you have dinner, you can have fun with family, hot chocolate, and see Santa.”
Santa Claus, arriving in style on a Freeport Fire Department truck, delighted children with appearances at both tree-lighting ceremonies.
Families arrived early to claim the best spots along the Nautical Mile, while others watched from waterfront restaurants offering holiday specials and festive hospitality.
The annual Holiday Boat Parade proved once again to be a spectacular celebration, uniting Freeport in the joy and magic of the holiday season.
