“I think with everything going on in today’s unpredictable world, everyone looks forward to this simple act of Christmas cheer for our community.” — Keegan Fisher, General Manager of Broken Oar
Pasadena’s waterways will glow once again this weekend as the Pasadena Christmas Boat Parade returns on Saturday, December 6, bringing with it shimmering lights, holiday music, and one of the most beloved traditions of the season. What started nearly a decade ago as a small, community-first idea has grown into a signature event that draws families to the shoreline and boaters to the water for a memorable night of Chesapeake cheer.
Keegan Fisher, General Manager of the Broken Oar Bar & Grill who also serves as the primary organizer of the parade, said this year marks the second season the waterfront restaurant has fully taken the helm after the event was formally handed off from PYY Marine last year. “The Pasadena Boat Parade has been going on for probably close to eight or nine years,” Fisher said. “It started with the owner of PYY Marine doing it as a way to promote business and do something for the community. He partnered with us about seven or so years ago to help expand the route and visibility. Last year the torch was officially passed to us, and we’re ready to continue the great tradition.”
The Broken Oar organizes the event alongside three longtime boat captains who have helped shape the parade from its earliest days. They coordinate route logistics, timing, safety, and – of course – the mid-route pickup of Santa Claus halfway through the parade. By the time the boats return to Nabbs Creek later in the evening, Santa will have already waved to spectators along multiple shorelines.
Fisher said the parade continues to grow every year, drawing more boats, more crowds, and more excitement. Last year’s route was shortened slightly to keep the evening from stretching too late into the cold December night – especially for the children who eagerly wait along the creeks. “The overall hype behind the parade this year seems to be bigger than ever,” Fisher said. “I think with everything going on in today’s unpredictable world, everyone looks forward to this simple act of Christmas cheer for our community.”
Organizers expect at least 20 boats this year, though Fisher is hopeful the number will climb. And while participation varies, the decorations never disappoint. Boats are known to go over the top – towering inflatable Santas, glowing reindeer, spiraling masts wrapped from top to bottom in lights, full-sized Christmas trees, and even onboard screens with animations and music. “These boats are decked out from bow to stern,” Fisher said. “They decorate better than some people’s houses and yards.”
This year’s route begins at 5 p.m. at the Broken Oar, making the restaurant one of the best vantage points for viewing. From Nabbs Creek, the boats head to Stoney Creek, then wind around to Rock Creek before looping past PYY Marine and back again. After Santa is picked up near the Oar, the parade makes a second sweep through Stoney Creek before returning to Nabbs Creek around 7:30 or 8 p.m. Partygoers gather at waterfront homes, neighbors host deck-side celebrations, and onlookers even cluster along the Stoney Creek Bridge for a glimpse of the glowing flotilla. “Really anywhere along those three creeks you can see them for the most part,” Fisher said.
The parade’s ability to bring people together has become one of the hallmarks of the event. Fisher said it’s a true community-wide effort, supported by local partners including the Lombardee Beach Community Association, Nabbs Creek Marina, the Coast Guard, nearby businesses, and loyal restaurant regulars. “If the kids love it, the parents will love it. If the parents love it, the restaurant loves it,” Fisher said. “We donate our $5 admission fee to the captains, so they love it. It’s a way to give back to the community as one of our thank yous for what they give us.”
Families arriving early to the Broken Oar can expect an atmosphere that Fisher proudly describes as a “winter wonderland.” The restaurant is known for its extravagant Christmas décor, both inside and out. Between the heated outdoor tent, tiki bar, full dinner and sushi menus, hot chocolate stations, and a live DJ playing holiday favorites, spectators will have plenty to enjoy even before the first boat’s lights appear on the creek.
Santa will also make a grand appearance once he’s ferried in by one of the parade’s lead captains. Children can visit him in a giant red Adirondack chair on the deck, where he hands out treats and listens to wish lists. Under the heated tent, kids can decorate ornaments, color Christmas scenes, and enjoy seasonal goodies while families warm up between parade passes.
For boat owners who want to join the festivities, Fisher keeps the sign-up process simple: “Just email me,” he said.
When the first lights appear on the water Saturday evening, they’ll signal more than the start of a parade – they’ll mark another year of a community coming together. The Pasadena Christmas Boat Parade continues to grow, but its heart remains the same: neighbors gathering to celebrate the holidays in a way only Pasadena can.
The Broken Oar Bar & Grill is located at 864 Nabbs Creek Road in Glen Burnie, Maryland.
