Argosy Christmas Ship Parade In Seattle

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with a magical boat parade? For over 70 years, the Argosy Christmas Ship Parade has been a beloved Seattle tradition, delighting audiences of all ages with its spectacular display of decorated ships, festive music, and joyful atmosphere.

As the largest holiday flotilla in the United States, the Argosy Christmas Ship Parade features a fleet of festively decorated boats, each one more breathtaking than the last. The parade takes place on Lake Washington and Puget Sound, offering stunning views of the Seattle skyline and surrounding landscape. The event is made possible by Argosy Cruises, a Seattle-based company that has been hosting the parade since 1949.

History of the Argosy Christmas Ship Parade

The Argosy Christmas Ship Parade has a rich history that dates back to 1949, when a small group of Seattleites decided to decorate their boats and sail around Lake Washington to spread holiday cheer. The event was an instant success, and over the years, it has grown into the largest and most popular holiday boat parade in the United States.

Today, the parade features over 60 boats, ranging from small sailboats to large yachts, each one decorated with thousands of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and holiday-themed displays. The boats are divided into several categories, including private boats, commercial vessels, and even a few special guest boats, such as the historic Virginia V steamship.

What to Expect at the Argosy Christmas Ship Parade

If you're planning to attend the Argosy Christmas Ship Parade, here's what you can expect:

• A fleet of festively decorated boats, each one more impressive than the last
• Live music and festive entertainment on board the lead boat, the Spirit of Seattle
• A magical atmosphere that's sure to put you in the holiday spirit
• Stunning views of the Seattle skyline and surrounding landscape
• A variety of food and drink vendors offering holiday treats and refreshments

How to Attend the Argosy Christmas Ship Parade

Attending the Argosy Christmas Ship Parade is easy and fun. Here are a few ways to experience the magic of the parade:

• Take a cruise on the Spirit of Seattle, the lead boat of the parade, which offers live music, festive entertainment, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Watch the parade from one of several designated viewing areas along the Lake Washington shoreline, such as Gas Works Park or Matthews Beach Park.
• Attend a holiday party or event at one of the many restaurants and bars along the waterfront, which often offer special parade viewing packages and promotions.

Parade Schedule and Route

The Argosy Christmas Ship Parade takes place on several nights throughout the holiday season, typically in late November and December. The parade route varies depending on the night, but it usually begins at the Seattle waterfront and makes its way around Lake Washington and Puget Sound.

Here is a sample parade schedule and route:

• November 29: Seattle waterfront to Lake Union
• December 6: Lake Washington to Puget Sound
• December 13: Puget Sound to Seattle waterfront
• December 20: Lake Washington to Lake Union

Fun Facts About the Argosy Christmas Ship Parade

Here are a few fun facts about the Argosy Christmas Ship Parade:

• The parade features over 60 boats, each one decorated with thousands of twinkling lights.
• The Spirit of Seattle, the lead boat of the parade, is a 1920s-style yacht that has been refurbished to its original glory.
• The parade route is over 20 miles long and takes several hours to complete.
• The Argosy Christmas Ship Parade is the largest holiday boat parade in the United States.
• The parade has been featured on several TV shows and films, including "Sleepless in Seattle" and "The Bachelor."

How to Get Involved in the Argosy Christmas Ship Parade

If you're interested in getting involved in the Argosy Christmas Ship Parade, here are a few ways to do so:

• Volunteer to help decorate the boats or assist with parade operations.
• Enter your own boat into the parade and compete for prizes in several categories, including best overall decoration and most creative theme.
• Attend a parade planning meeting or join the parade's Facebook group to stay up-to-date on the latest news and developments.

Conclusion

The Argosy Christmas Ship Parade is a beloved Seattle tradition that's sure to put you in the holiday spirit. With its stunning display of decorated boats, festive music, and joyful atmosphere, it's an event that's not to be missed. Whether you're a local or just visiting Seattle for the holidays, the Argosy Christmas Ship Parade is a must-see event that's sure to leave you feeling merry and bright.

We hope you've enjoyed this article about the Argosy Christmas Ship Parade. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below. Don't forget to share this article with your friends and family on social media, and we'll see you at the parade!