The Clinton River will be glowing this weekend as hundreds of boaters take part in Harrison Township Parade of Lights.
The summer event which attracts boaters all around Macomb County has been taking place for 11 years, raising funds for local charities.
Boat owners taking part have the chance to showcase their creativity and brighten their vessels with colorful decorations. Residents along the Clinton Rivers parade route in Harrison Township are encouraged to join in by decorating their homes.
Parade of Lights is a community event sponsored by many neighboring marinas and local businesses to help raise funds for a non-profit charity.
While homeowners dress up their homes for the celebration, marinas will be hosting parties with live entertainment.
Captains compete for first place prize of $1,000. Runners-up will receive $500 and $300, and the best-decorated resident’s house will pocket $100. A panel of judges will determine the winning entries.
This year’s parade contributions will benefit the I Heart Dog Rescue and Animal Haven in Warren.
According to its website, the rescue’s mission is to “lead the no-kill movement by rescuing, rehabilitating, re-homing and providing a place of refuge for homeless dogs, while also providing a haven for the pets belonging to domestic violence survivors.”
The parade has raised more than $130,000 for charities such as the Macomb County Sheriff’s Marine Division, the Harrison Township Firefighters-Toys for Tots, Detroit Dog Rescue, Children’s Foundation-Stilson Specialty Center, Angels of Hope, and more.
Boats participating can line up at 8:45 p.m. Saturday at Lambrecht Marina. The parade will depart at 9 p.m. down the river, heading to Bridgeview to the mouth of the Clinton River and back to Lambrecht.
Viewing spots include Bumpers Landing, Dos Bumpers, Crews Inn, Harley Ensign Memorial Boating Access Site and along the Clinton River.