Published: 8/16/2022 3:59:52 PM
Modified: 8/16/2022 3:56:25 PM
GILL — In the midst of one of the country’s hottest summers on record, the Franklin County Boat Club is bringing some winter cheer to Barton Cove with the 19th annual “Christmas on the River” event this Saturday.
Originally dubbed “Christmas in July,” the day of festivities begins at the Franklin County Boat Club with family-friendly activities that are exclusively for members. A parade, which involves members’ boats circling on Barton Cove to show off their Christmas-themed decor and bright light displays, will begin at around 8 p.m. for the public to enjoy from Unity Park in Turners Falls across the water.
“We encourage our members to please, please, please decorate,” event Chair Sharon Constantine said. “Some of our members decorate months ahead and others throw theirs together in a day or two, but they always do a good job.”
The parade participants will be judged by a panel based on who has the best presentation. First, second and third place winners will be chosen.
“The response as the boats go by, the ‘oohs’ and the ‘ahhs’ as the boats go by, that helps with the judging,” Constantine said.
Disc jockey Lee Tirrell will play music from a pontoon boat in the middle of Barton Cove throughout the evening, Constantine said. A pair of less local guests will also attend, bringing holiday cheer all the way from the North Pole.
“Mr. and Mrs. Claus will actually be on the bow of my boat,” Constantine said.
A fireworks display that Constantine expects will be “spectacular” will close out the night starting at around 9 p.m. The fireworks are also visible from Unity Park.
“We’re just hoping to get the word out there to get as many people as possible to come watch,” she said.
The event is funded by contributors within the Franklin County Boat Club.
Reach Julian Mendoza at 413-772-0261, ext. 261 or jmendoza@recorder.com.