As Newport Beach began its annual Boat Parade Wednesday, the spirit of the holidays illuminated Orange County’s sky and water.
From Wednesday through Sunday, almost 100 boats adorned with lights, ornaments, and festive decorations glide around the coastline, drawing large crowds to the harbor for 116 years.
“Now we have kids,” said Allison Paleo, an attendee. “Our friends and family come every year.”
Filmmaker and Newport Beach resident McG, whose real name is Joseph McGinty Nichol, served as the parade’s grand marshal on the first night.
“It’s obviously a point of pride for Newport Beach but it’s more than that because people enjoy it across the Southland and come from miles around,” he stated.
By Sunday, the city anticipates that one million people will attend the procession. Every day from December 18 to December 22, the parade will begin at 6:30 p.m.
“It’s really something that helps our restaurants, our hotels,” Gary Sherwin, a spectator, stated. We are now genuinely emerging as Southern California’s Christmas capital.
The Balboa Peninsula, parks, and over a dozen eateries are among the more than 53 waterfront viewing spots throughout Newport Harbor’s 14-mile route. There will be a unique fireworks display on opening and closing nights. The grand marshal will change every night.
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From 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., KCAL News and CBS News Los Angeles will broadcast the second night of the Newport Beach Boat Parade. KCAL’s Orange County reporter Michele Gile will be live from the parade, and Pat Harvey and Suzie Suh will anchor the special with Dani Ruberti.
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