The New Year is quickly approaching, which means the 2024 boating season is just around the corner!
Our 2024 boating calendar is filled with dates that all boaters will want to write down. They're some of the best days of the year to get out on the water!
2024 Boat Season Calendar Dates to Know
1. January - March: Boat Show Season
Boat show season is almost upon us! Numerous Discover Boating boat shows (in partnership with Progressive® Insurance) are happening in January, February, and March. Be sure to visit a show to browse a large selection of boats, experience exciting attractions, and learn from boating experts!
Check out our boat shows calendar to learn more and find a show near you.
2. March 19: First Day of Spring
The First Day of Spring is exciting because it's the date on which the day and night are approximately the same length of time.
Therefore, March 19 will be an excellent time to start your boat's spring commissioning. With about three months to go before the start of summer, it's the perfect time to clean and prepare your boat for the upcoming season.
How to Get Your Boat Ready for the Season
3. May 18-24: National Safe Boating Week
National Safe Boating Week is a National Safe Boating Council program that encourages everyone on the water to wear a life jacket.
May 18-24 is a great time to check your boat's stash of life jackets and ensure that there are enough jackets in the correct sizes for everyone who will join you on board throughout the year.
It's also a great time to take a boating safety course to rest assured that you're prepared to boat safely.
Learn More About Boating Safety Basics
4. May 27: Memorial Day
Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer when boaters in most parts of the country benefit from weather that welcomes them back to the water.
This day, of course, is also one of remembrance for all Americans who have died while serving in the nation's armed forces. Some boaters hold small ceremonies on board to remember friends, loved ones, and relatives who gave their lives in service.
5. June 1-9: National Fishing and Boating Week
National Fishing and Boating Week is a great time to up your fishing game! We recommend celebrating National Fishing and Boating Week by:
- Grab your rod and reel and head to your favorite fishing destination.
- Plan a boating trip with friends.
- Treat yourself to new fishing gear (or, even better, a new boat)!
How to Fish: Fishing Tips for Beginners
6. June 20: First Day of Summer
The summer solstice is the longest day of the year when the sun is at its highest and northernmost point in the sky. Thus, it's the day with the longest period of daylight!
In addition, Father’s Day is a few days before the First Day of Summer, on June 16. Is there any better time to be out on the water with dad?
7. June 22: Summer Sailstice
Summer Sailstice is the annual celebration of sailing, held on the weekend closest to Summer Solstice! It aims to celebrate a global love of sailing, so most events are free to all participants.
Check with your local sailing club to determine if any Summer Sailstice events are happening near you, or plan your own!
8. July 4: Fourth of July
The annual party in honor of America's independence takes place on waterways nationwide, with fireworks displays galore.
Those colorful celebrations in the sky happen after the sun goes down, but the long holiday weekend typically sees boaters packed across the waterways by day.
Best Cities to Watch Fourth of July Fireworks by Boat
9. September 2: Labor Day
This holiday weekend is the last big hurrah of the summer boating season before the kids return to school and the adults refocus their attention on work.
Labor Day is one of the premier days for raft-ups, onboard barbecues, and simply getting out on the water with family and friends.
In the northern parts of the United States, Labor Day is often when people pull their boats out of the water for winterization to prepare for the following boat season. Consider scheduling routine maintenance after your Labor Day celebrations to close out the 2024 boating season.
10. September 19-22: The Discover Boating Norwalk Boat Show
There's no better way to finish the 2024 boating season than to visit the Discover Boating Norwalk Boat Show (in partnership with Progressive® Insurance) on September 19-22!
Visit the show at the Norwalk Cove Marina to check out a wide selection of boats and exciting attractions.
11. The Month of December: Holiday Boat Parade Season
In warmer parts of the United States, the holiday season is also known as the season of boat parades. Boat owners decorate their hulls with lights and music displays that help celebrate the season in style.
Dozens of these holiday boat parades happen in Florida alone each December. Check your local listings for ones near you.
