Boat parade launches at earliest date ever

Parishioners can kick off their holiday celebrations earlier than ever during this year’s Christmas on the Bayou Boat Parade.

The annual parade, which usually takes place the Saturday before Christmas, will run on Dec. 4 at 6:30 p.m. on Highway 306 on the Bayou Gauche Island in Des Allemands.

Parade organizer Yvette Dunn said that participation in the parade has dwindled over the past few years and the date change was made to try to draw more of a crowd.

“So many people have Christmas parties and things that Saturday…we’re hoping that the date change kind of boosts up participation a little. We’re going to see how it goes,” Dunn said. “It’s a great way to kick off the holiday season.”

The parade starts at the island’s pump station and ends at Fisherman’s Wharf.

Boats will throw beads and candy and there will be cash prizes for the top three decorated boats. This is only the second year the parade has awarded cash prizes instead of trophies.

The parade usually has about 15 floats, according to Dunn, but she hopes more will join the event this year.

Anyone wishing to participate in the parade just has to show up between 5:30 and 6 p.m. on Dec. 4 to receive a number. Anyone is welcome to enter a decorated boat for the parade and there is no fee for participation.

Dunn said that the parade began to entertain kids, but that it is now a great event for the entire family.

For more information on the parade, contact Dunn at (504)415-6988.