For its 27th year, Key West Bight will be the mainstage for the annual lighted boat parade, where participants “deck the hulls” of their floating vessels for the holidays (and cash prizes).

The maritime holiday tradition has been a local mainstay for nearly 30 years. Hosted by the Schooner Wharf Bar & Galley on the Historic Seaport, prizes are awarded to participants based on creativity, originality and the wow-factor. Participants have included kayaks with battery-operated lights to 60-foot skipjacks.

If you plan to attend, pre-parade activities start at 6 at Schooner Wharf on the historic seaport, with a local elementary school band to give you a sense of the small-town feel. The parade launches at 8 p.m., and at Schooner’s live music by the eclectic Cayó Ritmo will play through 1 a.m.

Spectators can line up along the Harbor Walk of Lights to view the parade, or head down to Schooner Wharf. Even judges are set up at the wharf, so you’ll likely see the most impressive parts of the parade floats from the Schooner.

If you want to up the ante on this small town tradition, another viewing option is with Fury Water Adventures. Guests can enjoy food and libations while taking in the scene from the water. Interested? More info here.

The parade is Saturday, Dec. 9 at 8 p.m. We recommend you get to the Harbor Walk of Lights around 6 p.m. to enjoy the festivities, check out the lights and grab a good spot before the parade begins.

Looking for more holiday events in Key West? We got you covered. Check out events planned for the holidays and new year’s eve.