MERRITT ISLAND, Fla. – The Merritt Island Christmas boat parade will not take place in 2025.

In a Saturday post, organizers cited ongoing legal issues and safety concerns stemming from a crash during last year’s event .

“After eight incredible and nearly uninterrupted years of bringing our community together through our presenting sponsor participation in the annual Merritt Island Christmas Boat Parade, we are heartbroken to share that we will not be hosting the event this year,” the statement said.

The crash on Sykes Creek injured three people and drew widespread attention online .

In August, Cameron Michaels, 26, the driver involved in the crash, was sentenced to 60 days in jail and one year of probation after pleading no contest to reckless operation of a vessel and culpable

See Full Page