Beach Bum Etiquette By Margie McLellan It’s that time of year again – The Tybee Island Beach Bum Parade! It’s the time that all of us Tybeeites once again give over our beloved island to the annual pilgrimage of tourists from parts unknown for the summer. And what better way to do it than with a parade (everyone knows how we love parades here on Tybee). But this isn’t just any parade. Although we do have a Grand Marshall, Big Kahuna and a Beach Bum Queen, there will be no marching bands, Shriners, Clydesdales, politicians (well, you might see our mayor in the parade), etc. This is a one-of-a-kind all out water gun fight that is fun for the entire family. Every float will be loaded down with an abundance of water and beach bums with one purpose - to get you wetter than they get. If you plan on being here, you WILL get wet, no ifs ands or buts. With that in mind, there are a few rules of etiquette that you may need to know: 1. Do not, under any circumstance, spray water at our Police!! They are here to keep you safe. They are also wearing very expensive equipment. This will cost you dearly – not only will you miss out on the rest of the parade, but this will land you in court with a hefty fine. So just don’t do it. 2. Bring plenty of water. The water in your water gun will last somewhere around 5-10 seconds. Some ideas are: put water in your coolers, load a wagon with containers of water, get there early enough to park your car or truck along the parade route and have it filled with containers of water. If all else fails, find someone smarter than you, that brought plenty of water, and become fast friends with them. 3. Keep your valuables safe. A ziploc baggie or a sealed container works well to protect your phones, wallets, cameras, cigarettes, etc. Or better yet, leave them at home or in your car. 4. Do not use ice water in your water gun. Brrrr!! The parade doesn’t start until dusk, so it’s already starting to cool down. It’s just downright mean people! 5. Keep an eagle eye on your children. There is a lot of traffic, tourists, drunk people, etc. Keep those little ones safe while they are having fun. 6. Bring towels and/or a change of clothes. Believe me, you will be wet and cold when the parade is over. Come prepared. 7. Make sure your water guns are in good working order. Nothing worse than getting to the parade and having your line of protection fail you. Might be a good idea to bring back ups. 8. No pressure washers or water balloons are allowed. We are here to have fun, not endanger people. 9. Drink responsibly. I’m sure this will fall on a lot of deaf ears, but try to wait until the parade is over to get your drinking on. Just don’t want anyone getting in trouble! Yes, I’m talking to you … you know who you are. 10. Have FUN and get wet!
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