The New Year is quickly approaching, which means the 2026 boating season is just around the corner! Our 2026 boating calendar includes dates every boater should know. Trust us when we say these are some of the best days to get out on the water.
2026 Boat Season Calendar Dates to Know
What dates should be included in your 2026 boating calendar? We recommend starting here.
1. January - March: Boat Show Season
Boat show season is right around the corner! Numerous Discover Boating boat shows—in partnership with Progressive® Insurance—are taking place in January, February, and March. Visit a show near you 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 20: First Day of Spring
The first day of spring—also known as the Spring Equinox—will be on March 20, 2026. And if you didn't already know, that means the night and day will be approximately the same length.
Therefore, March 19 will be an excellent time to start your boat's spring commissioning. With only a few 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 16-22: National Safe Boating Week
National Safe Boating Week is happening from May 16-22, 2026. Essentially, it's a National Safe Boating Council program that encourages everyone on the water to wear a life jacket.
Therefore, this week is a great time to check your boat's stash of life jackets and ensure there are enough jackets — in the correct sizes — on board.
It's also a great time to take a boating safety course to ensure you're prepared to boat safely.
Learn More About Boating Safety Basics
4. May 25: Memorial Day
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, when boaters across most of the country enjoy 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. May 26: World Boating Day
World Boating Day, held on May 26, 2026, is an international day where companies, organizations, and institutes within the boating and yachting industries open their doors to the public. Many will organize local, in-person, and online events to increase awareness, build engagement, and foster positive connections.
It's an excellent opportunity for anyone interested to step into the shoes of various nautical professionals, from building a vessel to operating one.
6. June 6-14: 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:
- Planning a boating trip with friends.
- Treating yourself to new fishing gear or (even better!) a new fishing boat.
- Grabbing your rod and reel and heading to your favorite fishing destination.
7. June 8: World Oceans Day
World Oceans Day is a worldwide celebration occurring on June 8, 2026. It's a tremendous opportunity to deepen our understanding and awareness of our planet's oceans – both on and off the water!
Check out our guide on 10 Ways for Boaters to Celebrate World Oceans Day.
8. June 20: 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!
Here's How to Celebrate Summer Sailstice.
9. June 21: Summer Solstice
While Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, June 21 is the official summer solstice. On this day, the sun is at its most northerly point in the Earth's sky, making it the longest day of the year (daylight-wise). Therefore, it's a fantastic day to spend on the water.
10. July 4: Independence Day
Impressive firework shows light up America's waterways on July 4th, otherwise known as Independence Day. While these colorful celebrations typically happen after the sun goes down, the waterways will be packed all weekend with celebrating boaters.
Best Cities to Watch Fourth of July Fireworks by Boat
11. September 7: Labor Day
Labor Day Weekend is the last big hurrah of the summer boating season. It's known for raft-ups, onboard barbecues, and quality time spent with family and friends on the water.
In the northern parts of the United States, Labor Day is often when people pull their boats out of the water and winterize them for the following boat season. Consider scheduling routine maintenance after your Labor Day celebrations to close out the 2026 boating season.
12. September 24-27: Discover Boating Norwalk Boat Show
There's no better way to finish the 2026 boating season than to visit the Discover Boating Norwalk Boat Show—in partnership with Progressive® Insurance—on September 24-27.
Not only will Norwalk Cove Marina have a variety of vessels on display, but it will also offer many nautical attractions the whole family will love.
13. The Month of December: Holiday Boat Parade Season
In warmer parts of the United States, the holiday season doubles as boat parade season. Boat owners will decorate their hulls with lights and musical displays to help ring in the season in style.
If you're unsure where to look, here's a Holiday Boat Parade Calendar: Find a Holiday Boat Parade Near You.
2026 Boating Calendar: Dates to Know
Well, there you have it, folks! These are the top boating dates that should be on every boater's calendar for 2026. We'll see you out on the water.
Originally published in January 2021. Updated in December 2025.
