The 62nd Boothbay Harbor Windjammer Days shifts into high gear Sunday, June 23 with sailboat racing, the Blessing of the Fishing Fleet; and Boothbay's Got Talent, where local youth ages 7-18 compete for the titles of Royal Windjammer and Top Royal. Events culminate with Harbor Aglow, formerly the Lighted Boat Parade. 

What makes this event different is that the lights on pleasure, fishing and commercial tour boats moored in the harbor or at a boat slip are lit prior to the parade! 

The Friends of Windjammer Days (FWJD) encourage all boat captains to participate, to light up the harbor with white and multi-color lights. Dig out those Christmas lights, including the netting ones for shrubs (those make it quick, easy and effective!) or order from Amazon, but let’s light up our harbor!

Over the years, we’ve seen pirate dueling, giant inflated lobsters, dancing, and other forms of celebration! Who recalls the boat captain who had himself tied up with lights on his ship, and won first place. Themes run the gamut from island paradise to “Pirates of the Caribbean!” Metal  lobsters, American flags and other images have been alight on board as well. Or use a favorite song to decorate your boat.

Use your imagination and color with lights. Delight the landlubbers and your passengers, too!

There is a grand prize of $500 for the best lit boat. The judges will be at Boothbay Harbor Marina. Judges include members of FWJD and guests of the Marina. 

And, as a special incentive, for those who travel a bit far to participate, docking will be available at the Marina at no charge for the night.

The grand prize is $500 cash for Best In Show; there will be gift certificates, generously donated by area businesses, and lovely gift bags, too!

Boat captains can choose to keep their decorated vessels docked  or join in the parading around the Harbor – twice – to the delight of the yelling, whooping and hollering fans.

Registration is free! Go to the official festival website: www.boothbayharborwindjammerdays.org/lighted-boat-parade and receive your boat number that will be used by the judges.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up already!