News Summary
The annual Light Boat Parade in Jacksonville is scheduled for November 29, inviting boat owners to showcase their festive decorations. With free participation and a deadline for registration, the parade will navigate scenic routes, concluding with a stunning fireworks display. Ideal viewing spots are available along the riverwalks, and there will be ample parking options for attendees. This cherished community event marks the festive season’s kickoff and promises an evening of joy and celebration for all.
Jacksonville is set to host its annual Light Boat Parade on November 29, 2025, starting at 6 PM. This beloved event has been a community tradition for more than 30 years, drawing residents and visitors alike to enjoy a spectacular display of festive decorations on the water.
Boat owners, regardless of the size of their vessels, are encouraged to participate by decorating their boats for the parade. Those wishing to compete should note that participation is free, but registrations to be judged must be submitted by 11:59 PM on November 20, 2025. Late registrations will not be considered for the competition, making it important for participants to meet this deadline.
This year, participants will be evaluated in four categories based on overall appearance and decoration composition. The parade route will begin at the Ford on Bay, near the USS Orleck Naval Museum, and will progress under the Main Street and Acosta bridges, heading west before looping near the Fuller Warren. The parade will return along the Southbank to the Duval County School Board building.
For spectators eager to enjoy the festivities, several viewing areas are available. Popular spots include the Northbank Riverwalk, Riverside Arts Market, and Southbank Riverwalk. Following the parade, a fireworks display will entertain the crowd, with the show expected to start around 8 PM. The fireworks will be particularly eye-catching, featuring waterfall fireworks launched from both the Acosta and Main Street bridges.
Parking for attendees is accessible, with options near Friendship Fountain on the Southbank. Free parking is available at the Duval County Public Schools building and the Kings Avenue parking garage. Patrons are encouraged to arrive around 6 PM to secure parking and witness the parade’s start. Additionally, metered parking in downtown Jacksonville is free on weekends, providing further incentives for attendees to join the celebration.
Drivers should be aware that detour signs will be posted due to expected road closures, particularly near the Main Street and Acosta bridges from 6 PM to 10 PM. These closures are designed to facilitate the safe enjoyment of the fireworks display that follows the parade.
The Jacksonville Light Boat Parade marks the beginning of the holiday season in the city, contributing to the festive spirit that encompasses the community during this time of year. The event has a storied history, and its celebration through creative boat decorations and communal gatherings continues to be a highlight of Jacksonville’s annual calendar.
Local officials and organizers are optimistic that this year’s event will draw large crowds, fostering community spirit and engagement as they celebrate the joy of the season together. As the date approaches, anticipation builds among participants and spectators alike, promising an evening filled with color, light, and joy.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Florida Panthers Win Second Consecutive Stanley Cup
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Jacksonville
Additional Resources
- Action News Jax: Jacksonville Light Boat Parade 2025 Registration Now Open
- First Coast News: What to Know Ahead of the 40th Jacksonville Light Boat Parade
- Jacksonville.com: 2023 Jacksonville Light Boat Parade Guide
- Visit Jacksonville: Winter on the Water
- First Coast News: 53 Boats Bring Christmas Spirit to Jacksonville
- Wikipedia: Jacksonville
- Google Search: Jacksonville Light Boat Parade
- Google Scholar: Jacksonville events
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jacksonville
- Google News: Jacksonville Light Boat Parade
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
