Since it’s the golden anniversary for the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade this year, we thought we’d give some extra attention to a 50-year holiday tradition that has made our neighborhood what it is today. With just a few days away until the brightly lit boats make way through the Marina and Venice Canals, we thought we’d brush you up on your local Marina del Rey history—so you can impress your friends while you watch the parade!
The boat parade first began back in 1963, when the Marina was nothing more than empty marshland with about 100 boats. Margie and Steve Bragg started it all, walking the docks, encouraging boat owners to enter and decorate their vessels. Today, the parade has grown into an extravaganza of boats adorned with bright lights, showy special effects, festive music and announcers. Think of it as Marina del Rey’s answer to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, or like a holiday themed Mardi Gras on water.
To learn more about the history of the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade, click here.
