As the darkness and chill of December close in, there’s a bright, cheery parade you can attend.
You can even go night after night for nearly three weeks, if you wish, as the lit-up parade proudly passes by different local viewing sites — bobbing and splashing and twinkling as it goes.
It’s the annual flotilla of Christmas Ships on the Columbia and Willamette rivers. This waterborne celebration of the season, which began in 1954, brings out dozens of local boat owners who love decorating their vessels with bright lights and yuletide characters, and taking all that good cheer out on the water for you to admire.
Watch this space nearly every day, now through Dec. 21, for The Columbian’s maps of the changing Christmas ships’ routes (except Dec. 3, 4, 5, 11, 12 and 18, which are parade days off). And, check the lavish website at christmasships.org for the complete schedule and optimal viewing spots — including local restaurants where you can watch from the warm, dry comfort of your indoor table. The website also includes photos and videos, a history of the 64-year tradition, ways you can donate, and even tips and tricks for new skippers.
