Florida is famous for its enchanting holiday boat parades, which add a unique and festive touch to the holiday season. These parades feature beautifully decorated boats adorned with lights, festive decorations, and holiday-themed displays. Residents and visitors gather along the waterways to witness the dazzling spectacle and enjoy the holiday spirit.
One of the most iconic holiday boat parades in Florida is the Winterfest Boat Parade in Fort Lauderdale. Held annually in December, this parade is one of the largest and most elaborate in the state. Spectators line the banks of the Intracoastal Waterway to watch a procession of stunningly decorated boats, including mega-yachts, sailboats, and smaller vessels. The parade attracts thousands of attendees and features themed floats, live entertainment, and a fireworks display, making it a beloved tradition for both participants and onlookers.
The Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights is another cherished event on Florida’s Gulf Coast. This parade takes place in the Sarasota Bay and showcases a variety of vessels adorned with festive lights, garlands, and holiday decorations. Spectators gather along the shoreline and waterfront parks to witness the magical procession, accompanied by live music and entertainment. The parade route typically passes through several waterfront communities, offering different vantage points for attendees to enjoy the spectacle.
The St. Augustine Regatta of Lights is a charming boat parade held in the historic city of St. Augustine. Boats of all sizes and types sail along the Matanzas River, illuminating the waterfront with an array of twinkling lights and holiday-themed decorations. The parade concludes with a fireworks display over the bay, creating a breathtaking scene that captures the holiday spirit.
Additional holiday boat parades in Florida include the Boca Raton Holiday Boat Parade, the Tampa Riverwalk Holiday Lighted Boat Parade, and the Jacksonville Light Boat Parade. These parades feature creatively decorated boats, family-friendly activities, and a sense of community celebration.
Boat parades are a beloved tradition and a delightful way to experience the holiday season, witness the creative displays, and bask in the festive atmosphere as boats light up the waterways with holiday cheer.
Every year we scour the web and get in touch with local communities for the Boat Parades happening around Florida and put together a listing of Listing of Boat Parades across Florida, click here to find the Boat Parade near you!
Event dates and details vary from year to year, and many communities do not announce the date for the current year much in advance, so check the local listings websites for up-to-date information as the season approaches.
We’ve put together the biggest list of holiday events and festivals all around Florida:
- Ultimate Florida Holiday Guide to the most Magical Time of Year
- Christmas Season Event Listings
- Boat Parade Listings
- Holiday Parade Listings
- Tree Lighting Event Listings
- New Year Events
Click here to add yours and bring more visibility to your event.