All those who are interested in participating, must register their vessels by December 8th.  There will be several places to view this spectacular boat parade including Hugh Taylor Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale. Two levels of seating will be offered; public and reserved seating. Public seating is free and it is recommended that you come prepared with your own blankets and chairs for self seating, and reserved seating is $20.00. There is also a $2 park entry fee.

For those who wish to view the parade by boat, set anchor by 4pm so that you can avoid bridge closures. If you’re viewing the parade by boat, you can anchor your vessel at New River Cut, just South of Bahia Mar and the Western portion of Lake Santa Barbara.

The park will be accessible solely by shuttle bus, which departs at Holiday Park off Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale.

Comedian-actor Jim Belushi will be the grand marshal for the event. Jim Belushi and the Sacred Hearts Band will perform on stage at Hard Rock Live, December 12th.

For those who are unfamiliar with the tradition, let’s look at the history of the event.  Winterfest includes a series of events, all of which culminate to the main event, a unique boat parade.  2008 marks the 37th year of the festival which strives to “To enhance the community’s image by producing wholesome, unique, internationally recognized events that reflect the diversity and culture of South Florida.” The event embraces cultural differences and can boast to be the largest, single day, live audience Florida event.  Further more it is the seventh largest single day spectator event in the entire USA!  The International Festival and Events Association named Winterfest the top 20th parade in the world  This includes comparison to the Macy’s Day Parade, Mardit Gras, Disney Parades and Rose Bowl! Furthermore, Readers Digest named the festival one of the top 100 events in America.

Every year, the parade has a grand marshall who, thanks to the fact that the Seminole Hard Rock sponsors the event, often bring a touch of fame.  Past grand marshalls have included Lorraine Bracco from The Sopranos, American Idol judge Randy Jackson, and Basketball star Shaquille O’Neal.  This year, actor Jim Belushi, star of According to Jim will be doing the honors.

The events, most of which are free I might add, begin on November 7th with the Winterfest White Party.  This exclusive party kicks off the event and is by invitation only.  On November 12th at 6:30pm is the Decorating Seminar at Sixth Star Entertainment.  This evening provides great ideas for decorating Fort Lauderdale homes, businesses, or even boats!  On November 16th, from 12:00pm to 5:00pm, is a free event at Seminole Paradise which features art, wonderful entertainment, food and drink specials.

The Winterfest Coral HUMMER Golf and Tennis Classic at the Coral Ridge Country Club will take place on November 21st.  It is $200 per person for golf and $125 per person for Tennis.  On November 23rd, the Winterfest Xtreme Family Fun Day takes place from 12:00pm to 4:00pm.  This free event provides great family outdoor activities and savings on Xtreme Indoor Karting.  The next event, Southern Wine and Spirits Winterfest Black Tie Ball, is on December 6th.  This elegant occasion will feature a live, silent auction.

Universal Property and Casualty Insurance, Co. hosts the Shoreline Decorating Extravaganza on December 9th.  The event takes place aboard the M/Y Grand Floridian and tickets cost $100 per person.  December 12th is the Grand Marshall Reception, featuring, of course, Jim Belushi.  And finally, December 13th is the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade.  Hugh Taylor Birch State Park holds the grandstands and VIP viewing occurs at the Stranahan House/Riverside Hotel.

This is certainly a can’t miss festival, start making your plans now!