FILE/MICHAEL PISTELLA

A holiday tradition that spans decades in Cape Coral and epitomizes the holiday season in Florida hits the water this weekend.

The annual Holiday Boat-a-Long sets sail from Four Freedoms Park this Saturday, with a slate of festive events taking place at the park beginning at 4 p.m.

Attendees and spectators can take in the glow of lights on a plethora of vessels, as they float through Cape canals right before Christmas Day.

“This is a long-standing tradition in Cape Coral, with a 48-year history of folks taking it upon themselves to decorate their boats and creating a parade that is a magical visual for folks that come to Four Freedoms Park and around the canals,” said Cape Coral Special Events Coordinator Todd King.

This free, family-friendly event also features stage entertainment, local food trucks, crafts, and a visit from Santa Claus. The boat parade will begin at 7:30 p.m., and “The Polar Express” will be played on a giant inflatable screen at 8 p.m. Organizers advise attendees to bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the festivities.

This is truly an event that can only be put on in certain places around the country such as Florida. And Cape Coral does it in style.

“Unless you have an ice breaker, Florida is one of the only places you can conduct a Christmas boat parade,” King said, adding that up to 100 boats take part every year. “We are a boating community, with miles and miles of canals. Both elements just mesh together. You have good weather, beautiful conditions, and you add that everyone loves boating here and participants take it upon themselves to decorate their boats in a very festive, holiday way. When you put water and lights together, it’s just so magical, because you see some reflection on the water. It’s just a great experience.”

Individuals also can watch as the boats line up in Bimini Basin for the parade, which first passes by the Four Freedom Park’s beach before heading down various canals in South Cape Coral.

“A lot of our canals are backyard canals, so many folks along the route throw Christmas parties to watch the parade go by,” King said. “For public viewing, Four Freedoms Park is really your best bet.”

Other than the light show on the water, there will be plenty of entertainment for residents to take in, including a visit from the big jolly man himself.

“What kid doesn’t want to get last wishes in to Santa?” King said. “If kids haven’t had an opportunity yet, he’s here for a few more days before he has to get to work.”

Performances throughout the evening feature youth from Cultural Park Theatre, dancers from Studio 8, and the Calendar Girls and their Holiday Spectacular.

“This really is the last weekend before Christmas, and hopefully folks got their shopping done and can settle in and really find the spirit,” King said.

Those interested in having their boat in the parade should register by calling Sea Tow at 239-945-4820. For more information, visit CapeCoral.gov and search for special events under the Parks and Recreation tab.

A free shuttle will be taking attendees to and from the event, picking up at local parking lots in the area of Club Square, Iguana Mia, and BackStreets.

Four Freedoms Park is at 4818 Tarpon Court.