Freedom and glory are ready to fly high again next Thursday, July 4, at the fifth annual Lake Oconee boat parade.
The event will occur at the northern end of Lake Oconee near Buckhead. The parade will set sail around 2 p.m.
Buckhead resident Joe Williamson came up with the idea for an Independence Day boat parade on Lake Oconee a few years ago. The event has become a big draw for people, and he’s enjoyed seeing it grow yearly.
“It is very encouraging to see so many people excited about Independence Day,” Williamson said.
Last year, a record 21 boats entered the parade. Williamson expects it to be a “little bit” bigger this year.
“The number of boats and spectators are growing yearly,” Williamson said. “I expect it to be a little bit larger this year. Seeing the spectators and participants happy to celebrate our great nation’s history is great.”
Those participating in the parade are encouraged to go “all out” and decorate their boats in red, white, and blue.
“We usually get decorations such as flags or bunting. And, of course, people wear red, white, and blue,” Williamson explained last year. “One boat I remember had a bunch of people dressed up in costume. They had an inflatable Uncle Sam on top of their boat. We also had a guy dressed as Captain America while riding his jet ski with his kid in his lap. People just have a good time with it. It’s all for fun, which people enjoy.”
The most decorated boat, voted on by random judges, wins a prize, but the parade primarily celebrates Independence Day and the joy it brings people around the lake.
Williamson enjoys that part the most. He also loves seeing new faces join in on the festivities and for them to have a good time.
“It’s a great activity, giving people something to do. You don’t have to leave home. Just decorate your boat and head up the lake. Celebrate from your dock or boat,” Williamson said last year. “People in this area love to celebrate the Fourth of July. They know what it’s all about. It’s about liberty and the freedom of this country.”
For information about his year’s route and the parade, contact Joe Williamson at joe@smgwin.com.