Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade Grand Marshals are a Celebration of Public Service, TV, Education, Sports, and More!

The 2017 Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade recently announced its all-star Grand Marshal lineup for the 109th annual event lighting up the bay Wednesday, Dec. 13 through Sunday, Dec. 17.

Wednesday, Dec. 13: Reality Star and Local Entrepreneur Vicki Gunvalson

Vicki Gunvalson from the hit Bravo show “The Real Housewives of Orange County” will serve as Grand Marshal on opening night of the parade. In addition to her fame on the small screen, she is a successful entrepreneur who owns three businesses: Coto Insurance and Financial Services, Woo Hoo Productions and Diamonds by Vicki. She has also published a book titled, “More than a Housewife,” in which she highlights her journey of self-discovery and how she has been able to provide for her loved ones.

Thursday, Dec. 14: Holiday Hometown Heroes

Four local hometown heroes recognized this year for their extraordinary service to the community will be leading the parade. Spectators are invited to take a moment to offer their cheers and thanks as these four heroes remind us of all the hometown heroes who diligently work to keep Newport Beach safe.

Anthony Yim – Police Officer of the Year

Eric Smith – Seasonal Lifeguard of the Year

Jon Mitchell – Lifeguard Supervisor of the Year

Glenn White – Firefighter of the Year

Friday, Dec. 15: Orange County School of the Arts Performance Ambassadors – MONTAGE!

To kick off the weekend, MONTAGE! will be there to dazzle spectators with their talents. MONTAGE! is comprised of student artists in grades 7 – 12 and includes high-energy performances by singers, dancers, instrumentalists and actors. The school itself has been recognized for its arts education program locally, regionally and nationally; programs offered include dance, music, theatre, as well as fine and media arts.

Saturday, Dec. 16: Los Angeles Charger Cheerleaders

The Charger Girls have been cheering on the
LA Chargers, formerly the San Diego Chargers, since 1990 and has since become one of the top dance teams in the NFL. The team is currently comprised of 28 women, including college students, businesswomen, fitness and dance instructors and an actress. Over the years, the Charger Girls have worked with various charity groups including the Junior Seau Foundation, the American Diabetes Association and the D.A.R.E. program. (Fans can also view an appearance by the Charger Girls 5-6 p.m/ at the Opening Night Festivities at Marina Park.)

Sunday, Dec. 17: Members of the USC Trojan Marching Band 

Fight on! To celebrate the last night of the 109th Christmas Boat Parade, members of the USC Trojan Marching Band, known as “the Spirit of Troy,” will be there to send off the event with a BANG! The Trojan Marching Band, known as “the Spirit of Troy,” is considered one of the most innovative collegiate bands in the U.S. has been named as among the best marching bands in the country by USA Today. This year, the Trojan Marching Band will be complemented by the USC Song Girls.

For complete parade information, please visit www.christmasboatparade.com.

Written by Jennifer Sheumann