Stern Lines

’Twas the Lights Before Christmas

by Je erson Holland

The boats all arrive from around the bend, Looks like a galaxy having no end Into the Harbor to brighten the night The annual Eastport Parade of Lights

It’s always on the coldest night, The annual Eastport parade of lights We’ll cuddle with huddling crowds that fl ock To watch the parade from the City Dock

There’s a golden angel as tall as a mast Tootling a tune on a golden sax She’s circling now in a glittering array At the annual Eastport lights parade In a red top hat comes a big snowman With a sly little wink and a wave of his hand He opens his overcoat—what’s underneath? A brightly lighted Christmas tree!

The crab on the deck of that motor yacht— Look at the big Santa hat he’s got With a fi ne Santa smile on those Santa jaws He needs Santa mitts for those Santa crab claws

There’s Santa himself on a Coast Guard craft

Tossing candy canes fore and aft “Ho, ho!” Santa says as they sail out of sight, “Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

Listen to Je ’s rendition of this poem on “An Oyster Boy Christmas” accompanied by Tom Guay on the hammer dulcimer.

Visitor’s Guide truemagic

Talbot County is home to some of the most beautiful and historic small towns in America. Explore our culinary treasures, one-of-a-kind boutiques and elegant inns. Or bike, kayak and sail the Chesapeake Bay. Plan your escape today! 410-770-8000 | TourTalbot.org