The 26th annual Newport Illuminated Boat Parade will light up Newport Harbor on Friday, Nov. 28, at 6 p.m., continuing a holiday tradition that began more than two decades ago.
The parade, founded by then-Harbormaster Jake Farrell, has found a permanent home at Newport Yacht Club, which is hosting the event for the community.
“Since our founding in 1894, visitors to Newport Yacht Club have been experiencing the beauty of Newport harbor and Narragansett Bay,” said F.J. Ritt, commodore of Newport Yacht Club. “On behalf of our members, we are thrilled to be home to this long-standing holiday tradition.”
Decorated vessels will gather south of the Goat Island Causeway before proceeding east past Newport Yacht Club, where judges will be stationed. The parade route continues past Perrotti Park, Bowen’s Wharf, and Bannister’s Wharf before completing the harbor loop at Goat Island Causeway.
Spectators can view the free event from multiple waterfront locations, including Perrotti Park, Bowen’s Wharf, Bannister’s Wharf, and other points around the harbor.
Boats will compete for first, second, and third place in the Best in Show category, as well as the Tim Mills Team Spirit Award. The award honors the former harbormaster and recognizes the boat that best embodies community spirit and camaraderie.
An awards ceremony will follow at Newport Yacht Club at 7:30 p.m. In case of inclement weather, the event will be postponed to Saturday, Nov. 29.
Spectators are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations for the Martin Luther King Jr. Center. A donation box will be available at Newport Yacht Club.
Organizations, businesses, and boat owners interested in participating must register online by noon Thursday, Nov. 27.