Patchogue Boat Parade Goes Dolly for Christmas

A 30-year tradition, the Patchogue River Christmas Boat Parade pays tribute to a country legend on Sunday, Nov. 22, with A Holly Dolly Country Christmas, starting at 5 p.m.

“It’s a Patchogue tradition that’s brought to life by very generous sponsors who love the fact that it’s a free event for families to enjoy,” Michele LaMartina, president of the Patchogue River Christmas Boat Parade Association, told South Shore Press. “All the people who work on this are complete volunteers.”

Inspired by an event in Fort Lauderdale that captured the heart of Oar Steak & Seafood Grille owner Dick Blakeslee, Patchogue’s event has grown from just a few boats to approximately 40, said LaMartina.

“Each year the committee picks a theme,” she said. “This year, A Holly Dolly Country Christmas is perfect as it embodies all the amazing characteristics of Dolly Parton: generosity and philanthropy and kindness!”

Prior to the parade, on Saturday, Nov. 21, the public is invited to view the decorated boats from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Bayman’s Clam Bar and The Patch Bar & Grill. They can then use QR codes to vote on their favorites for the People’s Choice Awards. H2O Limo will be providing a water taxi service, so attendees only need to park once.

The website contains several parade viewing sites to consider for Sunday’s main attraction, which starts at 5 p.m. These include Sandspit Park (Davis Park Ferry terminal) and Fire Island National Seashore (Watch Hill terminal), as well as waterfront eateries like Drift 82, The Oar Steak & Seafood Grille, The Patch Bar & Grill and Bayman's Clam Bar.

Judging on parade day leads to additional awards on Sunday.

Anticipating a large turnout, LaMartina said, “Thousands of people line up along the river to see the boats come down. So, it’s a really big thing and then the last boat has Santa.”

For parade routes, viewing locations and additional information, visit PatchogueBoatParade.org