Showing patriotic spirit in the 2013 Lake Hayward Days Boat Parade.

Write-Up & Photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb

American patriotism on display..

More than a dozen fancifully decorated vessels took part in the Boat Parade Sunday, August 25, that capped Lake Hayward Days in the Colchester/East Haddam area of Connecticut.

In addition to accenting the beauty of the lake, the Boat Parade was clearly an opportunity for participants to express their personal creativity. Decorations ranged from patriotic themes to Hawaiian wanderlust, to commentary on the construction that has been underway at the Dog Beach pavilion rebuilt after it was damaged by fire several months ago, and,  well – um – what might be called bathroom humor – with old fashioned “outhouses” on board.

Under construction was the theme for this boater.

Promptly at 1:00 p.m. the Boat Parade began with small clusters of spectators having turned out to watch.

Pavilion.

It passed Dog Beach, Second Beach and made its way down to Third Beach. A picnic was slated to be held after the parade at Second Beach to include a presentation of trophies for best decorations. The fun was punctuated by ideal weather, clear, sunny skies with temperatures in the mid to high 70s and no humidity.

Enjoying the Boat Parade.

The Boat Parade capped a week of festivities known as Lake Hayward Days organized and sponsored by POALH, the Property Owners’ Association Lake Hayward. Lake Hayward Days ran from August 16 – 25. Among the activities were a Kid’s Fishing Derby, Morning Yoga on the Beach, Junior Chef’s Workshop, POALH Bass Tournament, a performance by Skyway Band last weekend, a Kiddie Costume & Decorated Bike Parade, Chocolate Bingo and Ladies’ Night Out . On Saturday, August 24, the day kicked off with children’s swim races followed by beach games and a carnival.