August 2026
- 70 Degrees
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
 Louise in Newport Harbor, 1921. Courtesy of the Sherman Library and Sawyer (Wilbur Cyrus) Photograph Collection. NBHS LOG August Edition by Jill Thrasher, Archivist When Balboa’s 1921 Boat Parade Lit Up the Harbor—and Set RecordsMore than a century ago, Newport Harbor shimmered with lights, decorated boats, and an unforgettable crowd. On August 19, 1921, the Los Angeles Times reported that the 10th annual “Illuminated Boat Parade” was the most successful in the event’s history. Billed as a “water carnival,” the celebration began at the Balboa Pavilion and ended at the Newport Harbor Yacht Club, drawing more than 30 floats, yachts, motorboats, rowboats, and canoes. Balboa, Balboa Island, Newport Beach, and several inland cities joined the festivities, each hoping to capture trophies and prizes for their decorated entries. The anniversary event brought what the paper called the “largest night crowd ever assembled at this popular resort.” Chaired by Joseph Allen Beek, founder of the Balboa Island Ferry, the evening ended with awards for floats, yachts, motorboats, and rowboats. |
 We are excited for our dinner and dance with Atomic Ballroom and band! Thank you to our generous sponsors for helping us underwrite the event. |
The Newport Beach Historical Society invites the community to celebrate Newport Beach’s upcoming 120th anniversary during Newport Beach Art Week, August 9th-15th, 2026. Learn more about the Newport Beach Historical Society and Newport Beach Art Week 2026. |
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Look for the historic markers located throughout the City of Newport Beach! Explore local history from these plaques that identify local, state and national landmarks. Thank you to Don Webb, NBHS Board Member and former Centennial Mayor, for creating this historic marker compilation, available to view and download here. |
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