Deck the Hulls; Christmas on the Water: The Coast Tradition

For as long as I can remember, I have attended Christmas on the Water in Biloxi. We would cuddle and huddle up at the Small Craft Harbor, watching the boats pass by with the sounds of our favorite Christmas songs radiating from carolers. Today, after 37 years, the tradition still lives on. Technology has made it a spectacle laden with LED lights, modern sound systems, and competition from even the saltiest dogs. Biloxi Yacht Club and other mariners participate in this annual event for the community. This unique tradition boasts a fleet of boats ready to shine bright on the nightfall water. Their masts adorn hark angels, bows with dancing reindeer, and various Christmas lights decorate the stern of each vessel. It is a memorable example of a Christmas tradition along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. In 1984, Mary Mahoney, who was the president-elect of the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce, dreamed of a unique nautical experience for the family to enjoy. This was the first time a woman held the post. Mahoney, along with other seafarers, created this event as an excuse to use their boats in the winter; Christmas on the Water was born. Unfortunately, Mary Mahoney never lived to see the event come to life. She fell ill and died the following year; however, the enthusiasm lived on through her friend, Rusty David. In 1986, David made the dream of Christmas on Water come to life and welcomed a parade of 28 boats. In 2004, the parade saw 86 boats on the water. After Hurricane Katrina hit, participation in the annual event declined drastically. The event dwindled to eight boats entering the parade that year. David was not deterred, vowing to hold tradition at any cost, but he decided to get creative. An award for Best of Show included a $1,000 prize. The boats were judged on the light display, the theme of their vessel, the music they chose, and their overall spirited appearance. To conclude the event, onlookers enjoy grand finale fireworks show from professionals aboard a barge docked at Deer Island. The legacy David worked tirelessly to create in Mary Mahoney’s honor was about to take another direct hit from participation. Hurricane Katrina was not the only event driving down momentum. In 2020, the COVID pandemic and, in 2021, a very active hurricane season dampened Christmas on the Water and its long-time excitement.

PHOTOS © AUGUST TACONI; OPPOSITE, BILOXI FREEZING AND PROCESSING

Like all things Biloxi and Coast-wide, our tenacious spirit kept the brightest night shining for brilliantly lit boats to cruise through the harbor spreading joy to all.

This event brings our community together and inspires families to get into the holiday spirit. This holiday season we have so much to be thankful for, especially Christmas traditions. The memories made at Christmas on the Water will sustain you and your family a lifetime of stories, smiles, laughter and happiness. For more information on the boat parade, contact Rusty David at 228-617-3112.

This year’s event will be held on December 3 at

6 p.m. For best viewing, arrive at Biloxi Harbor.

NATURAL