The annual Lighted Boat Parade will usher in the holiday season in traditional Chattanooga style, with dozens of watercraft in different sizes decorated with lights and parading on the river between the Olgiatti and Walnut Street bridges.
The boats will begin parading at 7 p.m. and continue for up to an hour. Recorded holiday music, as well as live performances including strolling carolers, juggling, fire twirling and a New Orleans-style strolling brass band will provide entertainment along the shore at Ross' Landing. A variety of food and drink vendors will also be on hand to offer warm refreshment.
There will not be a fireworks display at the conclusion of the parade this year, due to lack of funding.
However, also to be enjoyed while on site will be Gifts That Give Hope, featuring 12 different local charities in a big tent, where “shoppers” are given the opportunity to make a donation in someone's name as a meaningful gift. Santa will also be in the tent to greet or have photos made with him. Gifts That Give Hope will be open from 5-9 p.m.
Friday evening also marks the opening night for Ice on the Landing, the new holiday ice skating rink to be on the Chattanooga Green from Nov. 28-Jan. 4. Ice on the Landing will open from 5-11 p.m.