We are a community that loves celebrating!

Orcas Island Yacht Club’s Lighted Boat Parade in West Sound is this Saturday at 4 pm. The route starts at the Orcas Island Ferry dock and cruises east along the Orcas shore down Cayou Channel to near Grindstone Harbor, returning mid channel. If time permits the parade will make a quick swing toward Pole Pass, then down the east shore of West Sound to end at OIYC.

Head over to Doe Bay Resort, right after the Boat Parade, for their Holiday Bazaar from 5-9. They are offering a gift wrapping service by donation to the Food Bank. You can drop off your packages and grab a warm beverage to enjoy by the fire while you wait!  And, of course, there will be some great music!

OICF is very excited to host the first Winter Solstice Parade this Thursday, December 21st. We will gather in front of the Community Foundation Office on Urner Street at 4 o’clock. The parade route will take us up Prune Alley to School Rd and then down North Beach and back to Urner.  Everyone is encouraged to join in celebrating the return of the light. Bring lanterns, lights, or any other decorations you wish to carry. We will have hot cider and a fire outside of OICF to warm us up upon our return.

The revelry continues that same night, on the InterIsland Ferry, with the 2023 Floating Jammie Jam. Hightail it after the parade to the Ferry Landing for the 6:45 where there will be a floating ukulele jam. Hop on the boat for a jolly swing around the islands.  Dressing in PJ’s is encouraged but not required.

As the end of the year nears, please let us know if we can assist with any Required Minimum Distributions or Qualified Charitable Distributions. OICF is happy to receive the funds and then redistribute them to the organizations of your choosing. No fees applied, as this is a great way to support all the programs that support Orcas so well.

Hope you have a lovely weekend~

Hilary