Story by Matt Young for CaryCitizen. Photos by Hal Goodtree.

One of Cary’s most unique traditions is the Lochmere Christmas Flotilla, started by Former Mayor Harold Ritter in 2005. Dozens of boats and small craft, decorated with colorful lights, make a circuit around Lake Lochmere singing Christmas carols.

Former Mayor Launches a Tradition

Mayor Ritter (served Cary from 1983 – 1987) and his wife Gerry told me about starting the Lochmere Christmas Flotilla in 2005. “It started with two boats and a canoe with a flashlight,” the former Mayor quipped.

Very first Lochmere Flotilla. Photo courtesy of the Ritter family.

Now, it’s a big event with dozens of boats and hundreds of spectators.

There will be lots of sailboats, jon boats, pontoon party boats and even full size skiffs with lots of beautiful lights.

The flotilla (led by the Ritters’ grandchildren, I am told) sing carols as the boats make the voyage around both sides of the lake. Neighbors come and watch from docks all around the lake.

Join the Flotilla

If you’ve got a boat on Lake Lochmere and want to join the flotilla, decorate your vessel and assemble at the Ritter’s dock around 5:15 pm.

Mayor Ritter has even designed a schematic for running Christmas lights on your boat using a car battery and a power inverter. If you’re in need of advice, the flyer says “Ask the Pro – Call Harold Ritter, Flotilla organizer and handyman at 919-851-5444. You have questions, he has answers.”

Former Cary Mayor Harold Ritter at the helm of his Christmas Flotilla boat. Photo courtesy of the Ritter family.

Spectators

Spectators can watch from the dam over Lake Lochmere on Lochmere Drive (Map). Parking may be tight – try Lochmere Swim & Tennis just up the road. Bring some folding chairs, blankets and a thermos of hot chocolate. Or whatever floats your boat.