The theme was Make a Wish – Make It Special. And for this year’s participants in Discovery Bay’s Opening Day parade, it was just that.

“It was a great event, a wonderful day,” said event organizer Pat Anderson. “We were also joined by several offshore boats this year, so it was a nice turnout.”

The annual parade – held last weekend – marks the beginning of the summer boating season, and this year was highlighted by a flyover by the Patriot Jet Team.

“It was a spectacular show,” said Anderson. “What an amazing display of power.”

The day’s events opened with the Blessing of the Fleet by Pastor Larry Porter of Delta Community Presbyterian Church followed by the beginning of the parade, led by Discovery Bay Yacht Club Commodore Karen Mann.

Boat parade awards were conferred at the Discovery Bay Yacht Club and followed up by an afternoon of music, food and socializing.

Sponsored by the Discovery Bay Yacht Club, the parade is a family-fun event open to members and non-members alike, who are invited to enter their boats in the parade and enjoy an afternoon on the water.

This year’s top award – the Commodore’s Cup – was won by Erlyn and Don Payne for their configuration of rainbows, stars, a leprechaun, princess and pirate that radiated a magical aura of color and enchantment.

Other winners for 2011: Boats 37 feet and longer:

First Place– Carolyn and Dick Jamison

Second Place – Karen and Scott Mann

Boats 36 feet and shorter:

First Place – Linda and Don Davis

Second Place – Jules and Mike Guzzardo

Best of Big Cat: Jean and Ed Stewart

Best of Offshore: Jan and Milt Baehr