With the holiday season upon us, residents in northwest Cape Coral are taking to the water in a festive way this month in the form of a Christmas boat parade.

On Saturday, Dec. 18, more than 20 boats decked out in holiday style will traverse the canals in the northwest Cape for the enjoyment of the community. The theme for the first annual event is Dr. Seuss’ “The Grinch.”

The organizer of the boat parade, Cape Coral resident Dean Fox, said he wanted to bring a long-standing tradition in his hometown of Chicago to his neighborhood.

“It’s a huge event there, and it’s just a lot of fun, so I thought we’d try it out here,” Fox said.

Those who watch the vessels along their nearly 3-hour convoy will be treated to all of the timeless characters from the classic book and movie while music plays. The Grinch himself will be in his sleigh pulled by his trusty K-9 Max. Don’t forget about Cindy-Lou Who, the Mayor of Whoville, and many other familiar faces.

The parade gets going at 6 p.m. starting just south of the Bonefish Canal. Some of the best viewing areas for the spectacle will be at Tropicana Park and at barricaded safe areas along the route.

Boats will travel east down the Bonefish Canal, turn at the end and head west back to Spreader Waterway. From there they will head north to Wazee Lake, east down the Hermosa Canal,and back west towards Wazee Lake and along the shoreline west to Spreader. Lastly, they will follow Spreader north to Horseshoe Canal, head east, turn around at the end and head back west to Spreader where the parade will end.

Fox said anyone who would like to join the parade could do so by sending an email to scarabfox@aol.com with their name, number and boat model and size.

“We’re hoping for a great turnout,” Fox said.

Next year, he plans on organizing competitions for best boat and best dock.

— Connect with this reporter on Twitter: @haddad_cj