Christmas boat parades, holiday boat parades, parade of lights - whatever you call them, these festive events turn the ordinary into magic.
Searching for a lighted boat parade near you this season? You're in the right place! This holiday boat parade list includes upcoming 2025 events.
The 2025 Holiday Boat Parade List
Ready to see decorations light up the night? Here's what's confirmed for this year:
Alabama:
Arizona
California
- Dana Point
- Huntington Harbor
- Marina Del Rey
- Los Angeles
- Newport Beach
- Oceanside
- Redondo Beach
- San Diego
- San Rafael
- Santa Barbara
- Venice
- Ventura
Connecticut
Florida
- Alafia
- Boynton Beach
- Bradenton
- Cape Coral
- Clearwater
- Destin
- Fort Lauderdale
- Fort Myers Beach
- Jupiter/Palm Beach
- Key Largo
- Lake Weir
- Lantana
- Leesburg
- Madeira Beach
- Manatee River
- Mount Dora
- Naples
- Palm Beach
- Palm Coast
- Palm Valley
- Punta Gorda
- Sarasota
- St. Augustine
- St. Pete Beach
- Tampa
- Tarpon Springs
- Venice
Georgia
Massachusetts
Louisiana
Mississippi
New York
North Carolina
Oregon
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Texas
Virginia
Washington, D.C.
Why Holiday Boat Parades Rock
If you've never been to a lighted boat parade, you're missing out on one of the season's best traditions. These are just a few reasons why boaters love them:
Extra Time on The Water
Most boaters pack it in by late fall. These parades give you one more reason to fire up the engine, bundle up, and enjoy festive cheer. Plus, the water's usually calmer and less crowded this time of year!
Light Up Your Creativity
A lighted boat parade is where you can really show off. Boaters spend weeks planning how to decorate their boats for the parade of lights. String lights, inflatables, full-on themed displays - some get pretty elaborate.
Read Next: How to Decorate Your Boat for a Boat Parade
Community Vibes
The camaraderie is real. You'll swap decorating ideas at the yacht club, wave at fellow boats during the route, and probably end up at a post-parade party with fellow boaters. That's the whole point!
How to Find a Holiday Boat Parade List Near You
If you're looking for a lighted boat parade – here's how to track one down:
- Start with our holiday boat parade calendar above!
- Hit up local tourism sites.
- Check the city's social media accounts.
- Ask around at your marina!
Read Next: Winter Boating Tips
Holiday Boat Parade FAQs
Q: How can I find a holiday or lighted boat parade near me in 2025?
A: Start by checking local tourism sites, city event calendars, marinas, and community social pages. Browse the 2025 calendar above to find confirmed events in your area.
Q: Do I need a ticket to watch a holiday boat parade?
A: Most lighted boat parades are free to watch from public waterfront areas, though some marinas and restaurants may offer paid viewing spots or special events.
Q: Can anyone enter their boat in a Christmas or holiday boat parade?
A: Usually, yes—most parades allow boaters to register as long as they follow safety rules and decoration guidelines. Check each event's registration page for details.
Originally published in November 2021. Updated in November 2025.
