Light parade illuminates downtown

Thousands line St. Johns River to watch lighted boat parade, fireworks

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Thousands gathered at the Jacksonville Landing and Riverwalk on Saturday for the 29th annual Jacksonville Light Parade.

Dozens of boats, decked out in holiday lights, made their way around the St. Johns River to mark the start of the holiday season.

"Seeing all the lights everywhere, the lights around the city, and especially with Jacksonville being on the St. Johns River, seeing the lights on the boats is really fun and we haven't done that before," said Elizabeth Green.

The event began at 7 p.m. and ended in a fireworks show, which almost didn't happen due to funding issues.

The condition of the Riverwalk has had its ups and downs in recent months. Saturday, it had some watching their step.

"I feel unsafe especially down on the end by the Friendship Fountain," said Lisa Frankin. "Some of the boards are wobbly and it's dark down there, so I think it needs some repairs to it."

Windy conditions threatened to stop water taxis from escorting people across the river, but at nightfall, the taxis were allowed to be in service.

Boat parade lights up the river


About the Authors:

Ashley Harding joined the Channel 4 news team in March 2013. She reports for and anchors The Morning Show.