With hundreds of people making finishing touches to yachts of all shapes and sizes, it can only mean one thing — the Christmas Boat Parade is nearly here.

More than 50 craft will set sail on Hamilton Harbour tomorrow, as Bermuda’s biggest spectator event promises to give everyone an evening to remember.

Boats of all descriptions — from runabouts to yachts of more than 100-foot — will come to life with lights, holiday decorations, figurines and even animated characters during the bonanza.

The parade will be almost two miles long, with more than 1,000 people aboard the participating vessels, with crowds of up to 20,000 expected to cheer them on.

Organisers hope this year’s parade will be one of the best yet and are keeping a few tricks up their sleeves to keep the punters entertained.

Parade spokesman Ian Coles said: “We have some spectacular entries this year and one or two surprises that I know spectators will get great pleasure from.”

The parade will set off from the Fairmont Hamilton Princess at 6.30 p.m. and make its way along the waters off Front Street and around Hamilton Harbour.

It will be led by the sail training vessel Spirit of Bermuda, which will be bedecked with an eye-catching display of lights.

A stunning firework show from White’s Island will round off the evening’s entertainment at 8.15 p.m.

Organisers are encouraging spectators to make the most of the fun by watching from their suggested viewpoints — the flagpole in Front Street, Albuoy’s Point or Harbour Road.

People are urged not to watch the parade from their own boats because of marine safety.

Hamilton Harbour will shut down to boat traffic from 5.30 p.m. to make sure things go smoothly.

Mr. Coles said: “We are working with Marine Police, Marine and Ports and marshalling boats to ensure we have a safe and clear parade route.”

Live commentary on the parade will be broadcast on Radio VSB Mix 106FM, and over the public address system at the flagpole in Front Street.

As well as the start point, The Fairmont is the host hotel and judging centre. Its outside patio area is open to the public, and drinks and food will be available. The hotel will also be the location for the prize-giving ceremony, which will take place at about 9 p.m..

In order to provide safe viewing spots for the public, the Corporation of Hamilton has announced a number of road closures and parking restrictions.

Albuoy’s Point and Point Pleasant Road will be closed from 4 p.m. so that spectators can take their seats in good time.

The parking lane on the south side of Front Street, from Parliament Street to Point Pleasant Road, will be barricaded off to provide a safe pedestrian walkway before and during the parade. As a result, there will be no parking on that side of Front Street.

Other arrangements are in place to provide facilities for elderly and disabled people.

Horses and carriages may not occupy the horse canopy, and taxis may not use the taxi stand outside No. 1 shed after 4 p.m.. Buses will be able to stop just west of the flagpole to discharge passengers.

No.1 and No. 5 car parks will be closed from 4 p.m. and all cars must be out by that time.

Disabled and elderly people will therefore be able to view the parade from the No. 1 car park, in Front Street.

The western door of No. 1 car park will remain open so they can gain access and park in the shed. The No. 5 car park will be open for vans that drive disabled and elderly people, who will be able to watch the parade from their vehicles. Parking in both lots will be on a first come, first served basis.

All other city car parks will be available for public parking free of charge from 5 p.m..

The parade is sponsored by XL Capital, Cable & Wireless, American Airlines, Colonial Insurance, Bacardi, Butterfield & Vallis, Ace Limited and The Ministry of Community Affairs and Sport.