Heralding Pompano Beach's many changes and growth over the past few years is the idea behind this year's "Parade of Progress" on December 14. This year's 52nd Annual Greater Pompano Beach Boat Parade is dedicated to all the redevelopment and improvements made in the city in the past few years.

"With all the progress the City of Pompano Beach has been making, the committee decided this was the best way to honor all the changes," said boat parade chair Dr. Brian Rask. "The city has been working hard at redevelopment and we want to honor that."

Pompano Beach Mayor Lamar Fisher has been named this year's grand marshal. As the lead in shepherding all the changes in Pompano Beach, Mayor Fisher has been a key player in all the progress made in Pompano Beach.

Held a week later to allow boats more time to prepare, this year's event on December 14 will line boats up in the order their parade registrations are received, so sign up sooner for an earlier spot! The Chamber is still accepting boaters for this year's parade.

Thousands gather along the Intracoastal Waterway every year to celebrate this annual event that starts in Pompano Beach, runs through Lighthouse Point and Hillsboro Beach before ending at Hillsboro Blvd. in Deerfield Beach. The parade is a favorite with residents and Captains alike.

New this year there will be a "People's Choice" award, where viewers can go on the Greater Pompano Beach Boat Parade Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/PompanoBeachBoatParade) and vote for their favorite entry.The winner will be given a special award at the awards party held at the Pompano Marriott in January.

The parade can be viewed from the Sands Harbor Hotel, anywhere along the Intracoastal, major bridges in Pompano Beach as well as parks and from homes along the water which can participate in a house decorating contest to win prizes. Entry is free into the parade for captains.

Attendees can also join the Mayor aboard the Musette which rides the lead in the boat parade. The boat has room for 150 people to ride along the Intracoastal for a fun evening on the water. The Musette leaves Cove Marina in Deerfield Beach at 4:45 p.m. on December 14 and returns at 9 p.m. Tickets to ride the Musette are $60 plus tax and includes open bar, buffet meal with two entrees, salad, vegetable, potato and dessert and a DJ for lots of fun and dancing along the way. Call 561-791-9686 to ride the Musette only.

For all other questions or to learn how to participate, please contact the Greater Pompano Beach Chamber of Commerce at 954-941-2940.