From the land-based Key West procession, to long-loved Winterfest, parades have been forced to take a break thanks to COVID-19.

Remaining — at least in Broward — is the Pompano Beach boat parade, which will mark its 58th year Friday, Dec. 11, on an expectedly smaller scale from previous years. The boat parade is considered the oldest in the nation.

As usual, craft will sail up the Intracoastal from Lake Santa Barbara to the Hillsboro bridge, though fewer bystanders are likely to cheer on fewer parade entries.

“We felt that even if we have a smaller parade, as long as it’s safe, we could still enjoy the holidays,” said Connie Davis, director of programs and events for the Greater Pompano Beach Chamber of Commerce, which puts on the annual event along with several sponsors.

Aside from Winterfest, COVID also cancelled two local boat parades organized by the cities of Boca Raton, and Boynton and Delray Beach.

But the Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 5, sailing from North Palm Beach to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse. Information can be found at: www.marinepbc.org/boat-parade.

Pompano’s parade will honor first responders and essential workers with the timely theme, “Thank you America’s Everyday Heroes! A Special Salute to Our First Responders, Healthcare Workers, Essential Businesses and Essential Workers!”

Last year’s parade held 40 boats. When Waterfront Times went to press Nov. 24, Davis declined to specify the number of participants who had already registered for 2020.

“Whether we have 10 boats or 50 boats, the parade will definitely go on,” she said.

Boaters have until Friday, Dec. 4 to register. They can go to the www.pompanobeachchamber.com to submit their applications.

Entry is free for private craft not advertising a business. Commercial sponsorships are available for ranging fees.

In keeping with the parade’s theme, Broward Health workers, police, fire, truckers and postal service workers are expected on board an as yet undetermined craft in the parade when Waterfront Times went to press.

Not to be undone, Santa Claus will put in an appearance too.

Judging will take place at Sands Harbor Marina. Awards honor first, second and third placements.

Bridges on Atlantic Boulevard, 14th Street Causeway and Hillsboro Boulevard will be in the upright position from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. on the night of the parade, Dec. 11.