Half the fun of the Harbor Lights is the last minute scrambling to get bulbs, wires, zip ties and electricity flowing before showtime. It’s what keeps lobsterman Rusty Brewer coming back every year to the lighted boat parade.

“I always try to add something new,” Brewer said. “This year it’s a serpent on a surf board.”

Leave it up to a rugged Mainer to rig up a floating Christmas parade in a 15 degree wind chill; and this year Brewer took it up a notch by adding a fire breathing sea serpent trailing the boat.

It was 10 minutes before sundown in Boothbay Harbor, and Brewer and friends were still fussing with last minute touches on board his fishing vessel Look Out.

On board was Boothbay Harbor's Police Chief Bob Hasch, sporting a pot bellied Grinch costume. Fortunately the Grinch didn't ruin the Christmas cheer, as the holiday frivolity was running high for Harbor Lights. So much holiday frivolity, in fact, that at one point it looked as the the inflatable Santa Clause had knocked back one too many spiked egg nogs. (See video.)

The lighted boat parade was nothing short of spectacular when the ships came gliding into the harbor. Flickering lights strung to the masts and dory sails brought cheers from spectators on the waterfront.

Brewer and gang took home first place for his festive sea monster. For the skipper who is not unaccustomed to taking home the grand prize at Harbor Lights, Brewer said he does it simply for the fun of it.  

When Look Out finally came back to port with its deck fully aglow, Brewer began to dismantle the rig. 

“Got to get up to haul tomorrow,” Brewer said.