City Invites Entries For Christmas Boat Parade
The City of Hamilton is inviting Bermuda’s boating community to register for the 2026 City Christmas Boat Parade, set to take place in Hamilton Harbour on Saturday, December 12.
A spokesperson said, “The City of Hamilton is calling on Bermuda’s boating community to register today for the 2026 City Christmas Boat Parade, taking place on Saturday, December 12, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in Hamilton Harbour.
“New for 2026, the first 35 registered boats will receive a $750 participation stipend to help offset the cost of taking part, while also competing for the biggest and most exciting prize lineup in the event’s history.
“A highlight of Bermuda’s holiday season, the annual Christmas Boat Parade transforms Hamilton Harbour into a dazzling display of lights, creativity and festive spirit, drawing thousands of spectators each year for an evening of family-friendly entertainment.
“The free Viewing Village and Kids Zone will also return, offering families front-row seats to the festive action. While the decorated boats will once again take centre stage, the City is also planning a few exciting surprises to make this year’s celebration even more magical. Additional event details will be announced in the coming months.
“Boat owners, local businesses, workplaces, church groups and community organizations are encouraged to join forces and showcase their creativity by entering a decorated boat in the parade. Businesses interested in supporting the event through sponsorship are also encouraged to contact the City to discuss available opportunities. Boat owners are encouraged to register their vessels via the Boater Registration Form by August 9, 2026.
“The City is extremely grateful for the support of HSBC, whose sponsorship is helping ensure the 2026 City Christmas Boat Parade remains a highlight of Bermuda’s holiday season.
“Participating boats will compete for top honours across several categories, with our biggest prizes yet, including:
- Best Overall Boat [1st Place] – $2000 BELCO Gift Voucher + 2-night stay at the Hamilton Princess
- People’s Choice [2nd Place] – $1500 PW Marine Gift Voucher
- Best Traditional Christmas Message [3rd Place] – $1000 Rubis Gift Voucher
- Additional trophies will be awarded for Best Community Message, Most Original, Most Humorous, and Kid’s Choice.”
A City spokesperson said: “The Christmas Boat Parade has long been one of Bermuda’s most cherished holiday traditions, but we are aware that participation numbers have steadily declined over recent years. To deliver the kind of breathtaking spectacle the public has come to know and love, we need strong participation from Bermuda’s boating community this year. Without sufficient registrations, the event may not be able to proceed in the way the community has come to expect and enjoy. That would be incredibly disappointing, not only for the thousands of spectators who attend each year, but for Bermuda as a whole. Beyond the festive atmosphere, the parade provides an important boost to Hamilton’s restaurants, retailers and businesses, making it one of the City’s busiest nights of the year. That’s why we’re encouraging the boating community to help us make this year’s event one to remember.
“Earlier this year, the City reached out to the boating community through a survey to better understand participation challenges and what incentives may help encourage involvement. One of the key messages we heard was that participating in the parade requires a significant investment of time and money. That’s why we’re introducing a new $750 participation stipend to help offset some of those costs and make it easier for more boat owners to take part. We are hopeful the community will rally together to help keep this beloved tradition alive and ensure the parade remains as magical and memorable as ever.”
The spokesperson said, “Since taking over the event from the Bermuda Boat Parade Charity in 2017, the City has proudly organised the parade as one of Bermuda’s signature holiday events.”
HSBC’s Head of International, Wealth, and Premier Banking Tanya Bule said, “HSBC is proud to support the City of Hamilton Christmas Boat Parade, a much-loved holiday tradition that brings our community together around our iconic waterfront and showcases the creativity, spirit and generosity that make Bermuda so special. We encourage Bermuda’s boating community to get involved and help make this year’s event another memorable celebration for residents and visitors alike. It is one of the events in the lead up to Christmas that really brings the City alive”
The spokesperson said, “For partnership opportunities, registration information, to keep this beloved tradition/ alive/afloat or event details, please email events@cityhall.bm.”
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