The Yaquina Bay lighted boat parade is scheduled for tomorrow starting at 5pm. A variety of vessel owners have been busy decorating their vessels for the parade. The theme this year is White Christmas. According to Fran Mathews with Marine Discovery Tours there are still a few tickets left for those who want to ride on one of the decorated vessels in the parade while enjoying some cookies and hot chocolate courtesy of Mo’s and JC Market. Tickets are $30 for adults and $10 for kids. All money raised goes to benefit the Samaritan Pacific Communities Health District Foundation Festival of Trees. Thousands and thousands of lights adorn dozens of boats, which make a large loop around the bay, from the Coast Guard Station to the Embarcadero Resort and back, showing off a variety of colorful designs.

Fran said they have a variety of boats this year including the OSU research vessels the Elaka and the Pacific Storm. Fran thanked the Yaquina Bay Yachat Club and all of the local community partners who donate time and prizes in helping to put the lighted boat parade together. This is a total volunteer effort Fran said to benefit the local hospital. She added it is a boost for tourism too as people hit the docks, walkways and local shops and restaurants to watch the lighted boats on the bay and take in some early shopping opportunities. For more details on the lighted boat parade or to purchase tickets contact Fran Mathews at Marine Discovery Tours at 265-6200.