Florida’s winter magic is like nowhere else in the USA—warm breezes, sparkling waterways, and endless sunshine leading up to cool nights set the stage for one of the state’s most beloved seasonal traditions. With no snow or ice in sight, locals, snowbirds, and Florida vacationers gather outdoors under some of the clearest blue skies of the year. Winter in the Sunshine State is famous for its crisp, vivid, solid-blue horizons, making it my favorite season in Florida. It’s the perfect backdrop for watching a dazzling lineup of decorated boats glide across the coast in true Floridian style. Holiday boat parades are one of the most iconic things to do in Florida during the winter, blending tropical vibes with festive cheer.
If you’re planning a Florida getaway for the holidays—or you’re a local looking for a little extra sparkle—don’t miss the holiday boat parades happening across the state this season!
If you’re looking to celebrate the holidays in the Sunshine State, check out the holiday boat parades happening this year!
If you’re looking to celebrate the holidays in the Sunshine State, check out the holiday boat parades happening this year!If you’re looking to celebrate the holidays in the Sunshine State, check out the holiday boat parades happening in 2025!
Northeast Florida
New Smyrna Beach Boat Parade
Save the Date: Saturday, December 13
The boat parade immediately follows the Christmas Parade beginning on Flagler Avenue. Pro tip: get a spot early in the parade, then leave to snag outdoor seating at one of the many restaurants along Riverside Drive—like Outriggers Tiki Bar & Grille or The Grille at Riverview—or prepare to set up camp at Riverside Park to catch the tail end of the boat parade.
St. Augustine Regatta of Lights
Save the Date: Saturday, December 13, 6:00–7:30 p.m.
This charming parade winds along the bayfront between the Bridge of Lions and the Castillo de San Marcos, joining sailboats, trawlers and shrimp boats all decked out in lights.
Northwest Florida
Destin Harbor Lights Boat Parade
Save the Date: Sunday, December 14, starting at 6:00 p.m.
Boats of all kinds will light up Destin Harbor from east to west! After the boat parade, stick around for a spectacular fireworks display starting at 7:30 p.m.
Panama City Boat Parade of Lights
Save the Date: Saturday, December 13, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Beginning at St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club, the lights flow westward along St. Andrews Bay as boats parade past downtown Panama City and the Marina. Stick close to the Marina—that’s where the Holiday Village is, where you can meet Santa and patronize all kinds of vendors.
North Central Florida
Carrabelle Holiday on the Harbor and Parade of Boat Lights
Save the Date: Saturday, December 13, starting at 6:15 p.m.
Carrabelle’s bright-and-breezy harbor parade is part of an all-day affair! Beginning at 1 p.m. the same day, you can enjoy a festival featuring “terrific children’s activities, arts and crafts, delicious food, music, dancing,“ and plenty of opportunities to get your holiday shopping done.
Christmas Boat Parade in Suwannee
Save the Date: Friday, November 28, 8:30–9:30 p.m.
Stand beside the palm trees along Southeast 349 Highway as boats decked out in their holiday best make their way along the canal!
East Central Florida
Sebring Christmas Boat Parade
Save the Date: Saturday, December 13, 7:00–9:00 p.m.
Gather around Lake Jackson as the boats make their way around! This is an informal event not put on by the city, so keep that in mind. You can set up a chair or lay out a blanket and eat al fresco at Crescent Beach, the Lake Jackson Fishing Pier, Hidden Beach Park, or Veteran’s Beach.
Vero Beach Christmas Boat Parade
Save the Date: Sunday, December 14, starting at 6:00 p.m.
Take part in a cherished Treasure Coast tradition! Bring your friends and find a seat at Riverside Park, Cole Coppola Memorial Fishing Pier, A.W. Young Park, or Royal Palm Pointe Park to watch boats of all sizes dazzle the crowd with lights all aglow.
West Central Florida
Tampa Riverwalk Lighted Boat Parade
Save the Date: Saturday, December 20, 6:15–7:45 p.m.
The scenic Tampa Riverwalk draws a crowd any time of the year between the museums, restaurants, and other attractions. That being said, the Lighted Boat Parade will make this spot the place to be in Hillsborough County because the Grand Marshals of this year’s Lighted Boat Parade are local meteorologist Denis Philips and—get this—Elsa from Frozen!
Treasure Island Holiday Lighted Boat Parade
Save the Date: Saturday, December 20, 2025
The decked out boats will set off just south of the Treasure Island Causeway and wind through the Isles of Palms, Capri and end around John’s Pass.
South Florida
Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade
Save the Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025, starting at 6:00 p.m.
This festively lit parade floats up the Intracoastal from North Palm Beach to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse. You’ll also get to enjoy fireworks and a toy drive to help usher in holiday cheer.
Key Largo Boat Parade
Save the Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025, starting at 6:30 p.m.
Head to Blackwater Sound and pick a dock at Jimmy Johnson’s Big Chill, Sundowner’s or the Caribbean Club for stellar waterfront views.
Are you planning to attend a holiday boat parade this year? Have you attended one in the past? Tell me in the comments!
Love & Sunshine,
Frances