4th of July Boat Parade



Prior Lake Association Annual Boat Parade – July 4th

T he 4th of July boat parade has evolved from a Boat and Water competition dating back to the early 1970′s. In those early years, the event involved neighborhood competition on the water, including skits as well as decorated watercraft. The Willow Beach association won the initial competition held in 1972; and in 1974, Martinson Island claimed the top award. Present day boat parade is primarily individual entries. John Conant of TJ Houligan’s has served as chief of judging for many years and the Charles Prior II pontoon boat provided by the Knotty Oar Marina (formerly the Wagon Bridge Marina) has lead the parade and accommodated judges and photographers.

Parade Participant Information:

Parade is on July 4th at 1:00PM, beginning on Upper Prior Lake near Captain Jack’s; look for the Charles Prior II (the big pontoon from the marina). Prizes awarded in three categories: pontoons, runabouts and PWC. Runabouts include fishing, skiing, deck boats, etc. Judging will be from the CPII at 1:00PM, then the sheriff and the CPII will lead the decorated boats under the bridge and past Lakefront Park. Prizes must be picked up after the parade at the Knotty Oar Marina (formerly Wagon Bridge). Registration form can be downloaded here or picked up at the Knotty Oar Marina; ALL registrations must be turned in to the Marina to receive their parade number.