- Saturday, December 14th 5:00 PM
Celebrate the season in true coastal style with this annual event that has become a tradition for Southport locals and frequent visitors alike. The Southport Christmas Flotilla features a beautiful array of decorated vessels of all varieties that are decked out for the holidays, and which pay homage to the maritime spirit that is inherent in this small coastal town.
Boats of all sizes, including powered and sailing vessels, will be covered with lights and décor that celebrate the season during the flotilla, and the lights will keep twinkling as the fleet sets sail from the Southport Marina to Kingsley Park along the Cape Fear River. Visitors are free to head to the water’s edge to cheer on their favorite vessels, and to watch the beautiful on-the-water parade as it cruises by. At the end of the flotilla, the vessels will be judged for their decorations by art students from the Southport Elementary School, which makes the event both lightly competitive and community oriented. The Southport Christmas Flotilla is free for spectators and participants alike, and all mariners are welcome to join the line of vessels and to show off their holiday style. With lots of glittering lights and holiday cheer, the Southport Christmas Flotilla is a great celebration of the season.