Community Corner
Holiday Boat Parade to Light Up Cotee River
If you don't mind the short drive from Land O' Lakes, this could be a fun holiday event to take in this evening.
It’s not exactly one-horse sleighs or something Currier & Ives would have dreamed up, but a Florida holiday tradition sets sail tonight down the Cotee River.
About 20 vessels will navigate the waterway to New Port Richey Saturday in the 12th annual River Lights Boat Parade. The boats will be floating displays of holiday lights and decorations that can range from simple strings lining rails or rigging to elaborate dioramas and displays normally seen on a lawn.
Last year’s winner had a gingerbread house motif.
Find out what's happening in Land O' Lakeswith free, real-time updates from Patch.
The aquatic parade starts at Sunset Landing Marina in Port Richey at 6:30 p.m. and will take about an hour to cruise to the judges’ review stand and finish at Sims Park in New Port Richey, said organizer Craig Carmichael.
For landlocked members of the public, you can watch the bedecked armada from any park along the river or public access. One of the prime viewing spots will be at Sims Park where the parade will disperse.
Find out what's happening in Land O' Lakeswith free, real-time updates from Patch.
There is no charge for anyone to watch the parade along its route.
True Oldies 106.3 FM will broadcast live from 6-8 p.m. at Whiskey River Sports Bar and Grill, 5245 Limestone Drive in Port Richey. There also will be live music.
Carmichael said boat owners from as far as Dunedin and Brooksville have registered for this year’s parade that is put on by New Port Richey Main Street.