Nothing illustrates the holiday spirit better than that neighbor who insists upon going to great lengths to create the most ridiculous light display on the block - think "Deck the Halls" with Matthew Broderick and Danny DeVito.

Of course, a little healthy competition never hurt anybody, and luckily for San Diegans, we don't have to go to the suburbs to witness the decorative Christmas light rivalry, as the annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights embraces the most far out of Christmas light displays, San Diego style.

In its 37th year of celebration, boat lovers and Christmas light enthusiasts have banned together once again to put together a literal floating "parade of lights" for the fun-loving patrons who flock to this exemplary event. Boaters who are qualified to participate will be judged by imaginative lights, decorations, props, music and crowd enthusiasm, and vessels can range from kayaks to 100+ foot yachts.

This year's topic, Rock and Roll around the Bay, will exhibit more than 100 boats and expects to attract around 80,000 light-lovers to line the bay, from Harbor Island to Coronado. Parking can be tight around popular viewing points like Shelter Island and the surrounding downtown area, as this traditional event is free of charge, so spectators are urged to utilize public transportation. Less occupied viewing areas include the Embarcadero and the waterfront park around Shelter Island, for those trying to beat the crowd.

The 2008 San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is staged for Sunday December 14th and the following Sunday on December 21st, beginning at 5:30pm with a fireworks demonstration. To find out more about this historic event, visit sdparadeoflights.org.

Discover more ideas for holiday entertainment in San Diego.