Welcome to The Log’s 2025 Holiday Boat Parade Guide! The lights are strung, the docks are buzzing, and Southern California’s harbors are once again ready to shine. From San Diego’s glittering waterfront to Santa Barbara’s seaside charm, the coast is coming alive with the magic of the season — one illuminated vessel at a time.
This year’s lineup promises more sparkle, creativity, and coastal cheer than ever before. We’ve gathered everything you need to plan your perfect viewing experience, including confirmed dates, times, parade themes, and insider tips on the best spots to watch from land or sea. It doesn’t matter if you’re anchoring out, booking a harbor cruise, or joining the crowd along the waterfront, these festive flotillas are sure to capture the spirit of the holidays.
Expect everything from paddleboards wrapped in twinkle lights to yachts transformed into floating winter wonderlands. Many events feature live music, fireworks, Santa sightings, and opportunities to support local charities — all with that unmistakable SoCal flair.
So, grab your favorite holiday sweater, pour a cup of cocoa (or something stronger), and join us in celebrating one of California’s most beloved coastal traditions. The 2025 Holiday Boat Parade season is officially underway, and The Log is your compass to every light, laugh, and lasting memory along the way.
SAN DIEGO COUNTY
The 55th Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
Dates & Times: December 14 and 21, 2025; Parade begins at 5:30 p.m.
Location: San Diego Bay, California
Price: Free to attend
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is a cherished holiday tradition presented by the local boating community. Now in its 55th year, this festive spectacle will illuminate the bay over two evenings, featuring approximately 80 boats elaborately decorated to match the 2025 theme, An Out of This World Christmas. Drawing more than 100,000 residents and visitors annually, the parade offers dazzling views from multiple points along the waterfront, creating one of San Diego’s most iconic holiday celebrations. This year marks the seventh time the route will extend to the pier at Cesar Chavez Park before turning toward Coronado, providing an additional viewing area for spectators.
Parade route appearance times: The parade proceeds along the following approximate schedule:
- Shelter Island (start): 5:30 p.m.
- Harbor Island: 5:45 to 6:15 p.m.
- Seaport Village: 6:20 to 6:45 p.m.
- The Embarcadero: 6:50 to 7:15 p.m.
- Cesar Chavez Park Pier: 7:20 to 7:30 p.m.
- Ferry Landing on Coronado: 7:40 p.m.
The full procession takes approximately one to one and a half hours to pass any given point. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early, as prime viewing areas fill up quickly. For questions or comments, contact [email protected] or visit sdparadeoflights.org.
Mission Bay Parade of Lights
Date & Time: December 13, 2025; Parade begins at 5:30 p.m.; All-day festivities
Location: Mission Bay, San Diego, California
Price: Free to attend
The Mission Bay Parade of Lights is a long-standing holiday tradition hosted by the Mission Bay Yacht Club. Each December, the bay comes alive with dazzling displays of creativity as beautifully illuminated boats glide across the water, delighting viewers of all ages. The celebration begins with SeaWorld’s spectacular fireworks show, followed by the parade of festively decorated boats cruising through Mission Bay. Guests can enjoy designated spectator viewing areas featuring holiday-themed hospitality, food and beverage service, live entertainment, bonfire seating, seasonal music, and a special visit from Santa. For those wishing to extend the fun, nearby bayfront resorts offer the perfect opportunity to turn the event into a festive weekend getaway.
Parade route detail: The best spectator viewing areas are located along the parade route throughout Mission Bay, offering family-friendly amenities and excellent visibility. For additional information and maps, visit discovermissionbay.org/boat-parade.
Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights
Date & Time: December 13, 2025, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Oceanside Harbor, Oceanside, CA 92054, USA
Price: Free to attend
Celebrate the holiday season seaside at the charming Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights. This annual coastal tradition invites spectators to bundle up with blankets and hot cocoa for a night of nautical cheer. Fishing boats, sailboats, yachts, kayaks, and dinghies will be decked out in festive lights and holiday décor as they circle the harbor, dazzling crowds gathered along the waterfront and at nearby restaurants. Many participants take the fun even further, dressing as Santa and waving to onlookers as their vessels pass by. The event captures the warm, small-town spirit of Oceanside and delivers an unforgettable holiday experience for families and visitors alike.
Parade route detail: Some of the best viewing spots include the area near the fishing dock and police station, where spectators can see the parade twice as it loops around. The concrete walkway surrounding much of the harbor also offers excellent views. For more information, call (760) 722-5751 or visit visitoceanside.org/events/parade-of-lights.
ORANAGE COUNTY
50th Annual Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights & Happy Harbor Days
Dates & Times:
- Happy Harbor Days: November 12, 2025 through January 4, 2026
- Boat Parade of Lights: December 12 through 14, 2025
- Boat Rides with Santa: December 6 through 7, 2025
- Harbor After Dark: December 5, 2025
- Santa Paws Pet Photos: December 13 through 14, 2025
- Holiday Market: December 20, 2025
- Menorah Lighting: December 14 through 22, 2025
Location: Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, California
Price: Free to attend (some events may have separate costs or donation opportunities benefiting local nonprofits).
Dana Point Harbor Partners once again transform the harbor into a coastal winter wonderland for Happy Harbor Days, illuminating the waterfront with more than 700,000 twinkling LED lights from November through early January. Beloved displays such as the Merry Kiss Me arch, glowing whale, and shimmering palms make the harbor sparkle with holiday spirit, offering countless festive photo opportunities.
The highlight of the season is the 50th Annual Boat Parade of Lights, themed Golden Jubilee – Carol of the Boats, where creatively decorated vessels cruise through the harbor competing for $10,000 in prizes. Spectators can enjoy the show from the boardwalk or from one of the many waterfront restaurants offering cozy views of the parade.
Beyond the parade, visitors can enjoy a full calendar of holiday festivities including Boat Rides with Santa (benefiting Soroptimist of Capistrano Bay), Harbor After Dark with live music and late-night shopping, Santa Paws pet photos (supporting Pet Project Foundation), a festive Holiday Market featuring over 55 local artisans, and a nightly Menorah Lighting hosted by Chabad Jewish Center of Dana Point. Additional highlights include the Whales on the Wharf scavenger hunt, Holiday Light Cruises, and waterfront dining and shopping experiences that make Dana Point Harbor the ultimate holiday destination.
Parade route detail: Dana Point Harbor is located at 34571 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629. Spectators can view the parade from multiple spots along the boardwalk, island area, and near waterfront restaurants. Parking is available throughout the harbor, but early arrival is recommended due to large crowds during parade nights.
117th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade and Ring of Lights
Date & Time: December 17 through 21, 2025; Parade begins at approximately 6:30 p.m. each night
Location: Newport Harbor, Newport Beach, California
Price: Free to attend
Proudly hosted by the Commodores Club of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, the 117th annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade and Ring of Lights returns for five dazzling nights of nautical holiday magic. Watch as beautifully decorated yachts, boats, kayaks, and canoes illuminate Newport Harbor with millions of sparkling lights, themed displays, and festive music.
The celebration kicks off on Wednesday, December 17 with an opening fireworks display launched from the Newport Pier at approximately 6:15 p.m., lighting up the sky to officially begin the parade. This year also features the return of the holiday drone shows, expanding the event’s nighttime spectacle. The vibrant in-air performances will take place nightly at two viewing locations — over Balboa Bay Resort and Peninsula Park near the Fun Zone — with showtimes varying by evening:
- Wednesday, Dec. 17: Balboa Bay Club, at 6:00 & 8:15 p.m.; Peninsula Park, at 6:45 & 8:00 p.m.
- Thursday, Dec. 18: Balboa Bay Club, at 6:15 & 8:15 p.m. | Peninsula Park, at 6:45 & 8:00 p.m.
- Friday, Dec. 19: Balboa Bay Club, at 6:15 & 8:15 p.m. | Peninsula Park, at 6:45 & 8:00 p.m.
- Saturday, Dec. 20: Balboa Bay Club, at 6:15 & 8:15 p.m. | Peninsula Park, at 6:45 & 8:00 p.m.
- Sunday, Dec. 21: Balboa Bay Club, at 6:15 & 8:15 p.m. | Peninsula Park, at 6:45 & 8:00 p.m.
Parade route detail: The parade will begin and end at the tip of Lido Isle, following its traditional route through Newport Harbor. The first public viewing location is Marina Park (1600 W. Balboa Blvd.), a 10.5-acre waterfront park featuring 177 parking spaces, a sailing center, nautical-themed playground, and picnic areas — making it the largest and most popular public viewing area. Spectators can also enjoy excellent views from nearby Dine & Watch or Dine & Walk restaurants located along the harbor.
For route maps and parade timing by location, visit the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce website or visit christmasboatparade.com. Fireworks and drone shows are weather-dependent and will proceed only under safe conditions per local guidelines.
63rd Annual Huntington Harbour Boat Parade
Dates & Time: December 13 & 14, 2025; Parade begins at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 13
Location: Huntington Harbour, Huntington Beach, California
Price: Free to attend
The 63rd Annual Huntington Harbour Boat Parade invites the community to “Keep the Tradition Going!” with two nights of dazzling holiday fun on the water. This beloved local celebration brings together residents, boaters, and visitors to enjoy a spectacular display of festively decorated boats cruising through the scenic waterways of Huntington Harbour. The 2025 theme, Fun with Music,” encourages participants to blend creativity, lights, and melody for an unforgettable show. The parade will be led by Grand Marshal Madeline Fields, honoring her contributions to the community.
Parade route detail: The best viewing areas are located throughout Huntington Harbour along the main channels, bridges, and waterfront residences. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early, as parking in residential neighborhoods is limited. For more information, updates, and route details, visit hhboatparade.org.
Dry Land Boat Parade
Date & Time: Sunday, December 14, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Location: City of Villa Park, California
Price: Free to attend
The Villa Park Dry Land Boat Parade offers a playful twist on a beloved Southern California tradition. Known as the “asphalt harbor tour,” this one-of-a-kind event features more than fifty “boats,” including trucks, trailers, and other vehicles transformed into brilliantly lit holiday vessels cruising the streets of Villa Park. Each entry is decorated with festive lights and creative designs inspired by the 2025 theme, Reeling in the Holidays! Along the route, neighbors gather for lively boat watch parties, cheering on friends and family as the parade passes by, filling the city with laughter, community spirit, and holiday cheer.
Parade route detail: The parade travels through the neighborhoods of Villa Park, offering plenty of viewing opportunities along the residential route. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early and find a comfortable spot along the parade path. For details, maps, and participation information, visit vpcsfoundation.org/events/dryland-boat-parade.
LOS ANGELES COUNTY
Naples Island Christmas Boat Parade
Date & Time: December 20, 2025, beginning at 6:00 p.m.
Location: Naples Island, Long Beach, California
Price: Free to attend
The Naples Island Christmas Boat Parade is one of Long Beach’s most beloved and picturesque holiday traditions. Each year, the canals of Naples Island come alive as festively decorated boats and watercraft wind their way through the waterways, creating a shimmering spectacle of lights and color. The event’s charm extends beyond the water; the homes lining the canals also take part in the celebration, glowing with elaborate and creative holiday displays. The 2025 theme, A Tropical Winter Wonderland, invites participants and homeowners alike to blend coastal flair with holiday spirit, transforming the island into a paradise of lights and cheer.
Parade route detail: The best viewing areas include bridges and waterfront spots around Naples Island, such as the 2nd Street Bridge, Appian Way Bridge, and Alamitos Bay Marina. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early, as parking and space along the canals fill up quickly. For more information, visit visitlongbeach.com/events/naples-island-christmas-boat-parade.
63rd Annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade
Date & Time: December 13, 2025; Light Show, 5:45 to 6:00 p.m.; Parade, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.; Festivities at Burton Chace Park, 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Marina del Rey, California | Main viewing area at Burton Chace Park
Price: Free to attend
Description: The 63rd Annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade returns on Saturday, December 13, 2025, lighting up the harbor with festive creativity and community spirit. Proudly supported by Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital and local businesses, this cherished waterfront tradition celebrates the holidays with dazzling lights, live performances, and themed boat displays.
The 2025 theme, A Nightmare Before Christmas, promises a playful twist on the holiday season as participants transform their vessels into floating works of art inspired by the classic film. Boaters adorn their boats with thousands of lights and imaginative decorations while donning costumes, singing, and performing for cheering spectators. The evening begins with a spectacular light show followed by two hours of parade magic that delights both participants and viewers alike.
Parade route detail: The main viewing area is at Burton Chace Park (13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey), where festivities run from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. and include food, entertainment, and family fun. The parade and light show are visible from multiple points around the marina, including Fisherman’s Village, Marina (Mother’s) Beach, and the Marina del Rey Hotel area. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early for parking and the best viewing spots. For more information, visit mdrboatparade.org.
2025 King Harbor Holiday Boat Parade – Light Up the Harbor: Honoring Our Veterans
Date & Time: December 13, 2025; Parade start time to be announced
Location: King Harbor, Redondo Beach, California
Price: Free to attend
The King Harbor Holiday Boat Parade returns to Redondo Beach on December 13, 2025, inviting the community to celebrate the season under the theme, Light Up the Harbor: Honoring Our Veterans. This cherished waterfront tradition brings together boaters, residents, and visitors for an evening of sparkling lights, creativity, and camaraderie. Each year, participants transform their vessels into festive floating displays, illuminating King Harbor with holiday color and patriotic pride in tribute to the men and women who have served. Spectators can expect a joyful mix of holiday music, decorated boats, and the warm coastal spirit that defines this long-standing community event.
Parade route detail: The best viewing areas are along the Redondo Beach Marina, Clyde A. Doyle Park, and the Portofino Hotel & Marina waterfront. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking and prime viewing spots along the harbor. For updates and parade details, visit kingharborboatparade.org
L.A. Harbor Holiday Boat Parade
Date & Time: Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Port of Los Angeles, including Wilmington and San Pedro, California
Price: Free to attend
Celebrate the season at the L.A. Harbor Holiday Boat Parade, a 63-year-old tradition that brings together festive lights, maritime pride, and community spirit along the waterfront. Proudly sponsored by the Port of Los Angeles and the Cabrillo Beach Yacht Club, this beloved annual event showcases around 50 decorated vessels of all kinds — from powerboats and sailboats to tall ships and harbor working craft — each transformed into a brilliant display of holiday cheer.
The parade begins in Wilmington and proceeds through the Main Channel toward San Pedro, lighting up the night with creativity and joy. Local officials and community leaders join as judges and passengers aboard many of the participating boats, emphasizing the community connection that defines this treasured celebration. The 2025 parade promises a mile-long spectacle of color and lights, reflecting the true heart of Los Angeles’ coastal heritage.
Parade route detail: The parade starts at East Basin near Banning’s Landing Community Center in Wilmington and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete its route through the Port’s Main Channel. Spectators can enjoy excellent views from several locations along the harbor:
- Wilmington Viewing Spots:
- Banning’s Landing Community Center
- California Yacht Marina at Berth 202
- California Café, 720 Peninsula Rd.
- San Pedro Viewing Spots:
- Cruise Ship Promenade at Harbor Blvd. & Swinford St.
- Fanfare Fountain & Gateway Plaza
- Los Angeles Maritime Museum, 600 Sampson Way
- West Harbor (Old Ports O’ Call Village), 1100 Nagoya Way
- S. Lane Victory, 22nd Street Landing, 141 W. 22nd Street
- Cabrillo Way Marina, 2293 Miner St.
- California Yacht Marina – Cabrillo Marina, 224 Whaler’s Walk
Estimated Viewing Times:
- 6:30 to 7:00 p.m.: Cruise Ship Plaza, Battleship Iowa (Judges’ Station), L.A. Maritime Museum, Port Police Dock, and West Harbor
- 7:45 to 7:50 p.m.: Warehouse 1 and S.S. Lane Victory
Boat entries will compete for awards in several categories, including Theme, Children’s Choice, and Grand Marshal’s Award. Yacht clubs and marinas will vie for the prestigious Perpetual Trophy, given to the organization with the most participating entries.
Stay connected by sharing your experiences on social media using #LAHarborAfloat, and for the latest updates or weather confirmations, visit laharborholidayafloat.com.
VENTURA COUNTY
49th Annual Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks: Let It Glow
Date & Times: December 12 & 13, 2025; Festivities, 4:00 p.m.; Parade, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.; Fireworks, immediately following the parade each evening
Location: Ventura Harbor Village, Ventura, California
Price: Free admission | Paid parking available
Mark your calendars for Ventura Harbor Village’s 49th Annual Parade of Lights & Fireworks, a beloved seaside tradition illuminating the coast on Friday, December 12, and Saturday, December 13, 2025. This year’s theme, Let It Glow, promises two nights of radiant holiday fun featuring brilliantly lit boats, glowing decorations, and waterfront festivities for all ages.
Watch as boaters transform their vessels into floating masterpieces for the Boat Parade, competing for top honors while filling the harbor with color, creativity, and cheer. After the parade, the celebration continues with a breathtaking fireworks finale that lights up the Ventura night sky.
The fun begins early with a Carnival on the Main Lawn, offering classic rides, games, and family-friendly attractions. Stroll the Village to enjoy live entertainment, boutique shopping, seaside dining, a holiday DJ, faux snowfall, and festive photo ops that capture the spirit of a California winter wonderland.
Directions: Complimentary shuttles and parking options make visiting the event easy.
- Complimentary Shuttle Service: Pick-up available at Harbor & Schooner Drive parking lot and Portside Ventura.
- Free Parking: Along Spinnaker Drive, at the Dolphin Parking Lot at Safe Harbors Marina (a five-minute walk back to Andria’s and the Village), and in the dirt lot at the end of Spinnaker Drive.
- Paid Parking: Available near Ventura Harbor Village.
Spectators are encouraged to arrive early for the best viewing spots along the harbor. For event updates and details, visit venturaharborvillage.com or venturacountycoast.com/event/ventura-harbor-parade-of-lights.
59th Annual Channel Islands Harbor Parade of Lights – Rudolph’s Rock N’ Roll Regatta
Date & Time: December 13, 2025, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Channel Islands Harbor, Oxnard, California
Price: Free to attend
Get ready to rock around the harbor at the 59th Annual Channel Islands Harbor Parade of Lights on Saturday, December 13, 2025. This year’s theme, Rudolph’s Rock N’ Roll Regatta, invites boaters and spectators alike to celebrate the spirit of the season with a musical twist. Participants are encouraged to decorate their boats to the beat of rock legends — from Elvis and The Beatles to Queen, Bon Jovi, Nirvana, and today’s modern rock stars. Expect a dazzling display of bright lights, glitter, guitars, and even Santa joining in on the jam session.
The parade will begin at 7:00 p.m., lighting up the harbor with colorful vessels, festive tunes, and high-energy fun for all ages. Before the parade, families can enjoy a variety of landside activities, including entertainment, food vendors, and holiday cheer along the waterfront.
Parade route detail: The Channel Islands Harbor offers numerous prime viewing spots along Harbor Boulevard and Peninsula Road, as well as around Harbor View Park and Marine Emporium Landing. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early to find parking and secure a good vantage point. For event updates and additional details, visit channelislandsharbor.org/event/2025-parade-of-lights.
39th Annual Santa Barbara Parade of Lights
Date & Times: Sunday, December 14, 2025; Events, 3:00 p.m.; Boat Parade, 5:30 p.m.; Fireworks, approximately 7:00 p.m.
Location: Santa Barbara Harbor and Waterfront, Santa Barbara, California
Price: Free to attend
Celebrate the holiday season seaside at the 39th Annual Santa Barbara Parade of Lights, a festive day of waterfront fun for the whole family. The event begins at 3:00 p.m. with a Winter Wonderland on the City Pier, featuring holiday elves, 10 tons of snow, goodie bags, and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
At 3:30 p.m., the Human-Powered Parade kicks off, with standup paddlers and kayakers in festive attire looping around the harbor and Stearns Wharf to spread holiday cheer. The festivities continue at 5:00 p.m. with a tree lighting ceremony on Stearns Wharf next to the Sea Center, accompanied by a performance from the Dos Pueblos Jazz Choir.
As the sun sets, the main event begins at 5:30 p.m., when about 30 illuminated watercraft make their way from Leadbetter Beach to the Cabrillo Pavilion and back along the coast to Stearns Wharf, lighting up the waterfront with color and holiday spirit. The evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks show at approximately 7:00 p.m.
Parade route detail: The best viewing locations for the boat parade and fireworks are Stearns Wharf, the breakwater, West Beach, and East Beach. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking and viewing spots along the waterfront. For more information, visit santabarbaraca.gov/parade-of-lights.
