If you've ever spent a summer on Block Island, you know that some of the best memories happen right on the docks.
Neighbors become friends. Music carries across Great Salt Pond. Boats become gathering places. And once each summer, the marina transforms into something you won't find anywhere else in New England.
Welcome to Christmas in July at Champlin's Marina & Resort.
Returning on Saturday, July 18, 2026, this annual tradition has become one of the most anticipated weekends of the boating season. What began as a fun celebration has grown into a marina-wide event that brings together overnight guests, creative boaters, and plenty of holiday spirit, all in the middle of summer.
Whether you're a longtime participant or planning your first visit, this year's celebration promises to be one of the biggest yet.
A Summer Tradition Unlike Any Other
There's something uniquely Block Island about celebrating Christmas while wearing flip-flops.
Throughout the marina, boats are transformed with lights, inflatables, wreaths, Christmas trees, creative displays, and enough holiday cheer to make you forget it's July.
As the sun sets over Great Salt Pond, the marina comes alive with glowing docks, festive music, and visitors strolling from slip to slip to admire the incredible creativity of fellow boaters.
It's one of those events that perfectly captures the fun, welcoming atmosphere Champlin's is known for.
The Holiday Boat Decorating Contest
At the center of the celebration is the Holiday Boat Decorating Contest, open exclusively to overnight marina guests.
Every year, participating boaters go all out to create unforgettable displays, turning their vessels into floating holiday masterpieces.
This year's prizes are bigger than ever:
- First Place: $3,000 Champlin's Marina & Resort Gift Card
- Second Place: $1,500 Champlin's Marina & Resort Gift Card
- Third Place: $500 Champlin's Marina & Resort Gift Card
Whether your style is classic Christmas, over-the-top holiday fun, or something completely original, everyone is encouraged to join the festivities.
The contest isn't just about winning.
It's about creating an unforgettable weekend for everyone at the marina.
New for 2026: Prime Dock Locations Will Showcase Contest Participants
To make this year's celebration even more exciting for guests walking the docks, priority placement along the marina's main dock will be reserved for boats participating in the Holiday Boat Decorating Contest.
These highly visible slips create the best experience for both participants and spectators, allowing everyone to enjoy the incredible creativity displayed throughout the marina.
If you're planning to decorate your boat, please let our marina team know before your arrival so we can do our best to accommodate your participation.
Boats that are not participating in the decorating contest will not be assigned prime viewing locations along the main dock during Christmas in July weekend.
The goal is simple: create the best possible experience for everyone attending this signature summer event.
Celebrate Dockside at Trader Vic's Dock Bar
Once the judging wraps up, the celebration continues just steps away at Trader Vic's Dock Bar.
Guests can enjoy:
- Holiday-themed cocktails
- Live entertainment
- Festive giveaways
- Christmas music
- Plenty of dockside fun with fellow boaters
It's the perfect way to end an unforgettable day on Great Salt Pond.
Whether you're competing in the decorating contest or simply enjoying the atmosphere, everyone is invited to join the party.
Why Christmas in July Has Become a Block Island Favorite
Every marina has events.
Few have traditions.
Christmas in July has become one of those weekends that boaters plan their entire summer around. Friends coordinate trips months in advance. Families return year after year. New traditions are created with every decorated boat and every evening spent walking the docks.
It's one of the many reasons Champlin's Marina & Resort has become such a special destination for boaters throughout the Northeast.
The event captures everything people love about Block Island:
A welcoming boating community.
Beautiful waterfront sunsets.
Good food and drinks.
Friendly competition.
And memories that last long after summer comes to an end.
Reserve Your Slip Before They're Gone
Christmas in July consistently ranks among the busiest weekends of the boating season at Champlin's Marina & Resort.
If you're planning to participate in this year's Holiday Boat Decorating Contest or simply want to experience one of Block Island's most unique summer traditions, now is the time to reserve your slip.
Don't forget to let our marina team know if you're planning to decorate your boat so we can prioritize your placement along the main dock.
We can't wait to see what everyone creates this year.
Join Us for Christmas in July
Reserve your overnight slip at Champlin's Marina & Resort, pack your holiday decorations, and celebrate one of Block Island's most unforgettable weekends on Saturday, July 18, 2026.
We'll see you on the docks!
