Boats, Lights, And A Million Smiles: Season 5 Episode 5 with Winterfest CEO

Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Winterfest CEO Lisa Scott-Founds to explore how a handful of decorated boats became Florida’s biggest one-day spectacle, fueling $51 million in impact and year-round community programs. From safety logistics to kid-led art to televised reach, the parade proves how a city builds pride on water.• Origin in 1966, incorporation in 1988, growth to one million spectators• Economic impact for hotels, restaurants, charters, retailers• Post-9-11 route redesign for visibility and safety• TV broadcasts on ABC Miami and WSVN with national syndication• Sponsors including Seminole Hard Rock and community partners• Year-round events: galas, family fun day, film festival tie-ins• Themes: Yacht Rock of the Ages, Studio 54, plans for America’s 250th• Innovations: EDM barge, fire dancers, Junkanoo band• Winterfest Foundation: student art contest, museum exhibits, scholarships• Junior Captain program with FPL and Two Men and a Truck• Volunteers, control boats, multi-agency command at Riverside Hotel• Weather resilience, COVID pivots, lasting new activations• Accessible viewing at Las Olas park with organized seatingWards Marine Electrichttps://www.wardsmarine.com/Wards Way YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75