Light Boat Parade moves to a new date

A Thanksgiving weekend tradition is changing.

The Community First Jacksonville Light Boat Parade will be held on Friday, December 30^th this year. Gator Bowl Sports says they're joining the annual event with the 72^nd TaxSlayer Bowl on the 31^st in an effort to boost exposure for the City.

“Moving the Light Boat Parade to coincide with the TaxSlayer Bowl will guarantee heightened promotion of the prized Light Boat Parade, as tens of thousands of fans will be staying in our downtown hotels in preparation for the game,” said Gator Bowl Sports CEO Rick Catlett.

Catlett says that, with that increased exposure, could come more tourism and ultimately jobs down the line.

The event brings more than 200,000 people annually, according to organizers. It's now in its 32^nd year.

Boaters can register to be a part of the event through December 16^th. It is free to take part.