History
In 2002 an independent parade committee was established by the nonprofit Pacific Unicomm Corp with the Port of LA as the major sponsor and co-sponsored by LA and LB yacht clubs. The parade name was changed to LA Harbor Holiday Afloat. The parade date was established as the first Saturday in December and as a toy drive and fundraising event to assist harbor area youth organizations and nonprofits with their holiday events. The newly completed Banning's Landing Community Center in slip 8 was added to the parade route where the parade has been judged, viewed and filmed since 2002. First, second and third place trophies are awarded in the categories of: Traditional, Theme, Humorous, Commercial, Ancient Mariner and Classic Craft (the latter two since replaced by Holiday Spirit and Best Animation). Top awards include the Grand Marshal's Award, Children's Choice and Most Original.
Specialties
This annual kick off to the holiday season features dozens of brightly decorated boats, Tall Ships and Harbor Craft in a festive parade through the Port of Los Angeles main channel. The Parade begins in the Wilmington marinas and ends in the San Pedro Marinas with viewing locations all along the waterfront.