The first Sunday in May is not a big day for horse racing fans in the Greater Seattle Area, but rather is the "opening day" of yachting season. On this festive day, thousands of pleasure boats pass through the Hiram Chittendon Locks and then through the University Cut between Lake Union and Lake Washington (to get from salt water to fresh water). The boats are decorated. The boaters are decorated. At night, many of the boats are lit. Well before night, many of the boaters are lit. A most festive occasion!