Florida’s Christmas Boat Parades: A Festive Guide

Florida, November 26, 2025

As the holiday season approaches, Florida will be illuminated with joy and creativity during a series of Christmas boat parades. These beloved events not only feature beautifully decorated vessels but also foster community spirit and local engagement. This guide highlights the dates and locations of the parades scheduled for December, offering both residents and visitors a chance to celebrate the festive atmosphere along Florida’s waterways.

Florida’s 2025 Christmas Boat Parades: A Festive Guide

A Celebration of Community and Creativity on the Water

As the holiday season approaches, Florida’s picturesque waterways will come alive with vibrant displays of holiday cheer through a series of Christmas boat parades. These dazzling events not only showcase beautifully decorated vessels but also foster community spirit and engagement, highlighting the resilience and initiative of local organizers who bring these beloved traditions to life every year. This guide provides a detailed list of parades scheduled for December 2025, offering residents and visitors a chance to immerse themselves in these festive spectacles.

Embracing Local Leadership and Traditions

With the spirit of individual achievement and community involvement, these parades underscore the importance of civic innovation in Jacksonville and beyond. Reducing bureaucratic barriers has allowed for smoother event coordination, enabling communities to celebrate together. Each parade not only reflects the creativity of local participants but also emphasizes the economic and social value of coming together in celebration during the holiday season.

December 6, 2025

• Winter Haven Chain of Lakes Christmas Boat Parade
  Starting at 6:00 p.m. on Lake May, this parade travels through Lake Howard and Lake Shipp. Best viewing spots include Harborside Restaurant, Tanner’s Lakeside Bar & Grill, Old Man Franks, and the Twisted Prop.
• 23rd Annual Turkey Creek Christmas Boat Parade
  Boats gather at 5:30 p.m. on Turkey Creek in front of Palm Bay Marina, proceeding east past Palm Bay Point to the Indian River, then returning to Turkey Creek and heading towards Port Malabar Blvd.

December 13, 2025

• Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade
  Dubbed “The Greatest Show on H2O,” this parade begins at 6:00 p.m. in downtown Fort Lauderdale, traveling along the New River to the Intracoastal Waterway and continuing north to Lake Santa Barbara in Pompano Beach.
• Regatta of Lights in St. Augustine
  Starting at 6:00 p.m. on the St. Augustine bayfront, this free event features a lighted boat parade celebrating the season.
• Holiday Boat Parade of Lights in Sarasota
  From 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Sarasota Bay, this 39th annual event showcases a fleet of boats decorated for the holidays. Best viewing is from Marina Jack and Bayfront Park.
• St. Lucie County Christmas Boat Parade in Fort Pierce
  At 6:00 p.m., the parade route starts at Fort Pierce City Marina, proceeding under the South Bridge, out Fort Pierce Inlet toward Jetty Park, and returning to the turning basin.
• Wellington Holiday Boat Parade
  From 5:30 to 8:00 p.m., boats parade behind the Wellington Community Center.

December 14, 2025

• Destin Harbor Lighted Christmas Boat Parade
  Starting at 6:00 p.m., this parade lights up the harbor, culminating with a grand fireworks display. Best viewing is from various waterfront restaurants in Harborwalk Village, the Destin Bridge, and the docks of the Harborwalk Boardwalk.
• Vero Beach Christmas Boat Parade
  Beginning at 6:00 p.m., the parade route starts at Indian River Light 139, passing the City Marina, and continues through the Vero Isles channel. Best viewing spots include the City Marina, Riverside Park, and Royal Palm Pointe Park.

December 19, 2025

• Lake Osborne Holiday Boat Parade in Lantana
  Starting at 7:00 p.m. from The Hive Waterfront Restaurant and Tiki Bar, the parade continues to the Lake Worth Road boat ramp, looping around the entire lake. Great viewing areas are in John Prince Park and the campground area.

December 20, 2025

• Marco Island Christmas Boat Parade
  Beginning at 6:00 p.m. on the Marco River, recommended viewing includes The Esplanade on Smokehouse Bay and Snook Inn.
• Punta Gorda Boat Parade
  Starting at 6:30 p.m. within Punta Gorda Isles, the best viewing spot is along Almar Drive.
• Tampa Riverwalk Lighted Boat Parade
  Beginning at 6:15 p.m., the parade travels through the Convention Center basin and up to the Heights, ending at Sparkman Wharf. Public viewing areas include Armature Works, Channel Drive, Curtis Hixon, and Water Works Park.
• Treasure Island Holiday Boat Parade
  Starting at 6:00 p.m. just south of the Treasure Island Causeway, the route travels south of Paradise Island, around the Isles of Palms and Capri, ending at John’s Pass around 8:15 p.m.

Deck The Hulls’25 – Christmas Boat Parade in Islamorada

• Starting at 7:00 p.m., the parade commences at Bud Mary’s, proceeding around Islamorada and concluding at Papa Joe’s Waterfront. Free entry for vessels under 30ft.

Call to Action for Local Community Engagement

The series of boat parades in December 2025 offers an excellent opportunity for residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit while supporting local businesses and community initiatives. Engaging in these festive events can bolster community ties and promote a vibrant culture of togetherness across Florida.

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