By Shannon Wright

Every 4th of July weekend, the waters of Lake Bistineau are stirred by waves of red, white, and blue. This year was no exception as the annual Independence Day Boat Parade made its patriotic return.

The tradition, which began many years ago thanks to the late Carol and Ron Hudson, then owners of the beloved local spot Our Place Bar & Grill, has become a cherished summer event for the Lake Bistineau community. Now, the current owner Debra Davidson carries the torch, proudly continuing the Hudson’s legacy.

In memory and honor of Carol and Ron, Davidson hosted this year’s boat parade and celebration, which included an afterparty with live music by the ever-popular Louisiana Pothole Band.

Participants went all out, decorating their boats, party barges, and houseboats in dazzling patriotic themes. Those who registered were entered to win cash prizes for best decorations. The boats were judged by a panel floating in their very own “judges’ boat.”

While past judges were often “local celebrities,” Davidson chose to keep things close to home this year with a panel made up of Lake Bistineau residents. Leon Kellogg captained the judges’ boat, which included Paula Pendleton, Randall Atkins, Chris Bullock, and Rachael Hammonds.

In keeping with tradition, the parade was led by the locally well-known Piece of Ship houseboat. It began in the Gregg Lake area and traveled along the shoreline, passing Rodger’s Marina (where watch parties are known to gather) and making its way around Catfish Pond to Our Place. Spectators dotted the route, sitting on docks or floating in the water, soaking in the festive energy.

Jennifer Breedlove captured the spirit of the event perfectly, saying, “What I love most of all about the parade is just seeing all the people, young and old(ish), just hanging out in boats, in the water, and on boat docks showing their patriotism and just having fun – there’s just something nostalgic about it.”

Winners of this year’s competition were:

First Place: Red, White & Brew

Second Place: Ms Amy Lou

Third Place: 5 Chicks & a Stick

While many come for the parade, Our Place remains the heart of the celebration. Locals describe it as more than a bar, they say it’s a gathering place for good food, cold drinks, great music, and even better company.

On weekends like this one, it becomes the ultimate lakeside party.

If you missed out this year or want to be part of the fun next time, start planning now – this cherished tradition will likely continue.

For photos from the event and updates on future events or festivities, follow Our Place Bar & Grill on Facebook.