Annual boat parade free for decorated vessels

Local boaters are gearing up to participate in the American Legion Yacht Club’s 57th-annual Old Glory Boat Parade on Friday.

Registration is free for boating enthusiasts who want to decorate their vessels and participate in the parade.

Independence Day festivities will begin with a pancake breakfast 7 to 11 a.m. at the American Legion Newport Harbor Post 291, 215 E. 15th St. The breakfast will include appearances from Marines from Camp Pendleton and 60 children from the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

The parade will begin at 1 p.m. Spectators can view the festivities from the beach or patio at the American Legion post, or from other vantage points along the beaches and waterways of Newport Harbor. A map of the parade route and more information is available at www.alyc291.com.

Parade participants will compete for top honors in a variety of categories, including sweepstakes trophy, best theme, best sound or music, best animation, best decoration, best costumes, best spirit and yacht club with most entries. Winners will be announced at an awards dinner July 20 at the American Legion.

— Brianna Bailey