If you happen to be in the Olympia area this weekend, you have to check out the annual Lighted Ships Parade sponsored by the Olympia Yacht Club taking place on Saturday, December 6th at 6pm.
This year’s theme is “Nautical Noel” and if you have a boat, you can decorate it and join in the parade yourself. Contact the Yacht Club with any questions or to help out.
If you would rather stay on dry land, you can enjoy viewing the decorated vessels as they sail out in front of Anthony’s restaurant in Olympia, proceed out along the east side of Budd Bay to Boston Harbor and then return along the west side of Budd Bay back to the Yacht Club. There are some great viewing spots along this route including Budd Bay restaurant, Fiddlehead Marina, Anthony’s restaurant and Port Plaza. Homes along the water also have great access to view the lighted ships. You can plan a fancy dinner and watch the parade from inside a warm restaurant or pack up the kids, coats and hot cocoa and enjoy it all outdoors. Sometimes Santa even shows up and hands out candy canes.
This fun holiday tradition has been taking place for decades and is a festive way to celebrate our community, enjoy the Puget Sound and kindle your holiday spirit.