Alafia Lighted Boat Parade, Chili Cook-Off Set for Saturday

A seasonal favorite returns to Riverview this Saturday when the Rotary Club of FishHawk/Riverview hosts the 28th annual Alafia Boat Parade and Chili Cook-Off from 5 to 9 p.m.

Boats, large and small, decked out in holiday lights and Christmas decorations, will cruise the Alafia River past the Independent Showmen's Association, 6915 Riverview Dr., Riverview, for the pleasure of spectators and to vie for cash prizes.

The first-place winner of the large boat category, 23 feet or larger, will receive $750 and the second-place winner will received $250. The first-place prize for smaller boats, under 23 feet, will be $350 and the second-place winner will receive $150 in prize money.

Kim Tyson, secretary of the club, expects 10 to 15 boats to participate in the event this year. Anyone wishing to participate can call her at 813-672-3687 by Friday.

An estimated 1,000 people are anticipated to view the annual lighted boat show and participate in other free activities at the Independent Showmen's Association.

A chili cook-off will take place inside the facility. For $5, residents will receive a bowl and can taste as many different types of chili as they want. Also inside will be a vendor's show featuring local businesses and craftsmen, a silent auction including 25 to 30 baskets and a chest o' cheer, a 50/50 drawing and a cash bar. The cost for a vendor's space is $50. Anyone interested should contact Sandi Meadows at 813-846-7085.  

There also will be plenty of children's activities including face painting, a bouncy house and free photos with Santa, said Tyson.

Entertainment for the event will be provided by the Riverview High School Choir and Music Showcase.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase as well.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the club's college scholarship program,
which provides scholarships for students at Newsome, Riverview and Spoto high schools to help pay for college.

For information on Saturday's event, call 813-267-0107 or visit www.fishhawkriverviewrotary.org.