SAUSALITO’S 38TH ANNUAL lighted boat parade drifted through Richardson Bay this past weekend as the column of vessels was met with cheers and applause from a large crowd gathered at Gabrielson Park.
Winterfest Sausalito kicked off Saturday with the yearly boat parade that took place on the Sausalito waterfront. Onlookers crowded into Gabrielson Park and the downtown boardwalk area to watch the lighted vessels glow against the night sky. The boat parade was free to attend, and the vessels were visible from anywhere along the waterfront.
Each vessel made its way out of the docks, navigating through a lighted course that looped back towards the end of the boardwalk. The San Francisco city skyline set the stage for the parade as the vessels drifted through the inky waters of the night.
Restaurants along the waterfront were packed with people who wanted to watch the boat parade over dinner. The Spinnaker restaurant hosted the Captain’s After Party, welcoming both ticket holders and general admission guests after the parade.
Unfortunately, the fireworks show was canceled this year due to alleged mechanical failures. Children groaned at the minor inconvenience while parents in the crowd slightly celebrated the opportunity to retreat back to warmth.
The winter festival also featured the Jingle Bell 5K Reindeer Dash Run & Jingle Paws Brunch which took place the following morning on Sunday. Adults, children and canine companions were welcome to join the race along the waterfront.
The benefit race for the Dipsea Kidz program aims to raise funds for at-risk youth in the community who do not have access to a traditional track and field team. The funds are used to cover race entrance fees and uniforms for the student athletes.
