From Examiner.com

It was no silent night December 7 when fireworks exploded across Camana Bay following the annual Christmas Parade of Lights on the Caribbean island of Grand Cayman. The free event—started 16 years ago in Hogsty Bay in Georgetown—moved to Camana Bay five years ago, and an estimated 7,000 people lined the shores of the town’s small harbor for the biggest holiday spectacle of the year.

Big boats, tall boats and small boats decked out in holiday lights slowly cruised the bay one by one, vying for the $2,000 first place prize in two categories. Judges looked at overall impression of each vessel, use of color, creativity and the “Wow” factor. The audience helped out with the latter as they cheered loudly for their favorites. Winners of the 2013 competition were former winners Sunset Divers in the watersports operator category and a houseboat in the private category.

Before the parade, local church and group choirs and bands performed Christmas music on the Festival Green, getting everyone into the holiday spirit. Food and craft booths were available as well.

The event is put on by CITN/Cayman 27, a local TV station. There is no entry fee for participants.

Photos:

PL#1 Turtles pull Santa’s sleigh in the winning float by Sunset Divers, Claudia Carbone

PL#2 Santa rides high on the houseboat, winner of the private category, Claudia Carbone

PL#3 A 16-year Christmas tradition in Grand Cayman, Claudia Carbone –EDITOR: This boat was promoting recycling. All the lights were LED and the Christmas tree near the bow was made from hundreds of bottles and lit my more LED lights. Chip Ogilvie designed and piloted the entry.

PL#4 Lights and stars adorn this boat, Claudia Carbone

PL#5 People line the shore of Camana Bay to watch the 16th annual Parade of Lights Claudia Carbone

PL#6 Fireworks light up Camana Bay after the boat parade, Claudia Carbone

For more on this story go to:

http://www.examiner.com/article/grand-cayman-s-christmas-parade-of-lights-dazzles-camana-bay