The Boothbay Harbor Region is kicking off the holiday season with a full day of festivities on Saturday, Nov. 22. Following the excitement of the Early Bird Sale & Bed Races in the morning, the celebration continues into the evening with the annual Lighted Firetruck & First Responders Parade, followed by the Chili Cook-Off at Meadow Mall.

Parade begins at 4 p.m.

Fire, EMS, and law enforcement teams from across the region will travel through Boothbay Harbor in decorated, lighted vehicles. Judges (Winners from the Windjammer Days Parade & '24 Lighted Boat Parade + A surprise Judge) will determine the winner of the Dalmatian Cup, while spectators will help choose the People’s Choice Award by voting via text.

Parade route

The parade starts at the Boothbay Fire Station, makes a stop at St. Andrews Village, then continues along Oak Street. It turns left at the Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library and proceeds down Townsend Avenue before ending at the Meadow Mall for the awards ceremony.

Santa and Mrs. Claus are expected to make a special appearance along the route.

First Responder departments interested in participating may apply. 

Spectators may vote for their favorite entree by texting 207-350-5922.

Can’t make it in person? The parade will also be broadcast live on the Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce Facebook page and on BRCTV.

Chili Cook-Off at Meadow Mall

Immediately following the parade, the community is invited to warm up inside Meadow Mall, Suite F, for the annual Chili Cook-Off beginning around 5 p.m.

This year’s restaurant competitors include Mine Oyster (last year’s winner), East Boothbay General Store, Footbridge Brewery, The Whale’s Tale & Seafarer’s Pub, and Dunton’s Doghouse. Several First Responders will also enter their own homemade chili. Winners will be named in both the Restaurant Division and the First Responder Division, with the top prize in each category being the Golden Spoon Award.

Admission is free for all First Responders. General admission is $10, which includes unlimited chili tastings and a voting card. Guests will sample each entry and vote for their favorite, with winners announced once votes are tallied.

A festive start to Boothbay Lights

The parade and cook-off are just one of the many sparkling events during Boothbay Lights and offer the community an opportunity to celebrate together, honor local First Responders, and enjoy a fun and flavorful evening.

More information about Boothbay Lights can be found at www.boothbaylights.com