Known by many names - Christmas boat parades, holiday boat parades, or lighted boat parades - these events transform waterways across the United States into a twinkling celebration of the season. These annual events are often locally cherished traditions, bringing communities together to celebrate the season and allowing boaters to display their holiday flair in style.
Below is a list of 2024 boat parades, complete with links to help you join the fun. Scroll to your state to discover the magic happening near you.
Why Holiday Boat Parades Are a Delight for Boaters
Holiday boat parades are a festive celebration of the holidays – and the boating lifestyle. These events resonate strongly with boaters for several reasons:
1. Extended Time on The Water
For many, winter means a break from regular boating adventures. Holiday parades provide the perfect opportunity to bring your boat out of the marina, enjoy a crisp evening on the water, and squeeze in one last outing before the season ends.
Read Next: Winter Boating Tips
2. The Glow of Festive Lights
Decorating your boat for a holiday parade is a chance to let your creativity shine. From sparkling string lights to holiday themes, the holiday magic is undeniable. It’s a unique way to celebrate the holidays in nautical style.
Read Next: How to Decorate Your Boat for a Boat Parade
3. Connecting with Fellow Boaters
Holiday parades are as much about community as they are about celebration: sharing decorating tips, cruising alongside other boaters, or enjoying a post-parade gathering. The camaraderie and connection make the experience truly special.
Whether you’re participating with family and friends or simply enjoying the view from your boat, the combination of holiday spirit and time on the water guarantees an event to remember.
How to Find a Holiday Boat Parade Near You
With countless parades happening nationwide, finding one in your area is easier than ever.
- Review our Holiday Boat Parade List below: it’s organized by state, making it simple to locate events near you.
- Check local community boards: City tourism websites, marinas, and yacht clubs often promote holiday boat parades during their seasonal festivities.
- Follow social media pages for your local marina, events, and city.
- Ask Your Local Marina: Marinas and boating clubs are often key participants in holiday parades.
Whether you’re a beginner experiencing your first holiday parade or a seasoned boater looking to add another memory to your logbook, these events celebrate the joy and freedom boating brings.
Holiday Boat Parade List:
Alabama
Arizona
California
- Dana Point
- Huntington Harbor
- Marina Del Rey
- Morro Bay
- Long Beach
- Los Angeles
- Naples Island
- Newport Beach
- Oceanside
- Oxnard
- Redondo Beach
- San Diego
- San Rafael
- Santa Barbara
- Venice
- Ventura
Connecticut
Florida
- Alafia
- Apollo Beach
- Bonita Springs
- Boynton Beach/Delray Beach
- Bradenton
- Bradenton Beach
- Cape Coral
- Carabelle
- Clearwater
- Cocoa Beach
- Cocoa Village
- Daytona Beach
- Destin
- Fort Lauderdale
- Fort Myers Beach
- Fort Pierce
- Jacksonville
- Jupiter/Palm Beach
- Key Largo
- Key West
- Lake Weir / Weirsdale
- Lantana
- Leesburg
- Madeira Beach
- Manatee River
- Merritt Island
- Mount Dora
- Naples
- New Port Richey
- New Smyrna Beach
- Niceville
- Palm Beach/Jupiter
- Palm Coast
- Palm Valley
- Pensacola
- Pompano Beach
- Punta Gorda
- Sarasota
- St. Augustine
- St. Pete Beach
- Stuart
- Tampa
- Tarpon Springs
- Venice
- Vero Beach
Georgia
Massachusetts
Louisiana
Maryland
Mississippi
New York
North Carolina
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
- Clear Lake Area, Houston
- Corpus Christi
- Galveston
- Lake Grapevine
- Lake Travis
- Port Aransas
- Port O’Connor
- San Antonio River
- San Bernard River
Virginia
Washington State
Washington, D.C.
Holiday Boat Parades
As you explore the parades above, consider how you might get involved: cheering from the sidelines, volunteering, or decking out your boat to join the fun. Wherever you are, these twinkling holiday cheer displays will surely create unforgettable memories.
