In the quaint harbour of Port de Grave, Newfoundland, a unique and enchanting tradition has been casting a festive glow over the waters for the past 25 years.
The Port de Grave Boat Lighting Festival, part of the Christmas in the Harbour celebration, transforms the harbour into a floating North Pole, enchanting visitors with its twinkling lights and festive ambiance.
This year, Christmas in the Harbour celebrates this quarter-century milestone, marking a journey that began with a single fisherman’s lit boat in 1999 and has now evolved into an internationally recognized event featuring nearly 60 brightly illuminated boats.
The festival, which starts on the second Friday of December and lasts until Old Christmas Day (January 6th), is not just a display of lights; it’s a symbol of community spirit and collaboration. The initial spark was ignited when the Government of Newfoundland sponsored the Festival of Lights, offering a grant to communities willing to light up for Christmas. The locals of Port de Grave, inspired by fisherman Eric Lear’s illuminated boat, saw this as an opportunity to celebrate the festive season uniquely. They reached out to the Port de Grave Harbour Authority and together, they initiated what would become an annual tradition.
The inaugural boat lighting in 1999 saw 36 boats adorned with lights, creating a magical spectacle. The event was marked by choir performances, speeches, and a visit from Santa Claus. Over the years, the festival has grown in scale, sometimes featuring over 70 boats, each festively decorated by fishermen and pleasure craft owners alike.
The Port de Grave Peninsula Heritage Society Inc., formed in 1993, has played a significant role in organizing and promoting the event.
To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Port-De-Grave Boat Lighting Festival, the Newfoundland Chocolate Company has released a special edition of their extra smooth milk chocolate bar, adorned with a festive “Christmas Lights in the Harbour” design. This unique offering is available in limited quantities.
The festival received significant monetary support from the federal and provincial governments this year.
The boats light up during the boat lighting ceremony on Friday, December 8, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. The opening night is especially magical, featuring the lighting of the boats and a special visit from Santa Claus. While the event officially kicks off with the Christmas Boat Lighting and Carol Singing, the illuminated harbour remains a captivating sight throughout the holiday season.
Visitors to the festival can enjoy hot drinks on the wharf and visit the museum on December 9th, 15th, 29th & 30th from 5-9 pm. The boats are lit daily from around 5 pm to midnight from Dec 9 to January 6. Spectators can view the lights by walking around the harbour or driving through the designated areas, ensuring that both sides of the harbour are visited for the full experience.
The festival showcases the brightly lit boats and encourages visitors to explore the Peninsula. Recommendations include driving around the harbour, visiting Ship Cove to see the life-size Nativity scene near St. Luke’s Church, and enjoying various light displays along the route to Hibbs Cove and Blow Me Down. Key attractions include the Crabpot Christmas Tree, the Memorial Christmas Tree, and light displays at several local landmarks.