Holiday flotilla celebrates 30 years

A seasonal tradition at the North Carolina coast is celebrating 30 years this weekend.

Posted 4:15 p.m. Nov 26, 2013 — Updated 4:18 p.m. Nov 26, 2013

Caitlin Zanga

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, N.C. — A seasonal tradition at the North Carolina coast is celebrating 30 years this weekend.

The North Carolina Holiday Flotilla will take place Friday, Nov. 29, and Saturday, Nov. 30, with fun activities around Wrightsville Beach. The festivities are capped off with the flotilla and fireworks show.

The event typically attracts about 50,000 people, but flotilla organizers are expecting the thirtieth anniversary to draw an even larger crowd.

In honor of 30 years, the prizes and events are bigger and better than ever. The winner of "Best in Show" will receive a new 17-foot boat and trailer. New this year is the expansion of fan voting, including a "Crowd Favorite" award chosen through text message. Thirty voters will also be randomly chosen to win prizes this year.

Here is a schedule of events for the Holiday Flotilla celebration:

Friday, Nov. 29:

Atlantic Marine Holiday Launch Party at the Blockade Runner Beach Resort (7 p.m., tickets $25): The event is open to the public and includes heavy hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar and live music by The Craig Woolard Band.

Saturday, Nov. 30:

Festival in the Park at Wrightsville Beach Park (10 a.m. - 4 p.m.): There will be plenty of children's activities including bounce houses and a coloring contest. Adults can check out the arts and crafts booths and the antique car show.

NC Holiday Flotilla Parade along the Intracoastal Waterway (6 p.m.): Find a spot to watch the parade and enjoy the show! Fireworks will follow the parade at approximately 7:30 p.m.

For more festival information, visit the NC Holiday Flotilla website.

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