It’s how we Christmas in Florida. Every year the creative boaters step up their game with lights, characters and music and sail along Florida waterways. Here’s where to go this year.
December 2: Tarpon Springs
At 6:30pm, the boats begin the journey down the Anclote River. Head to Craig Park! That’s where the judging will be done at 7:30pm.
December 3: Riverview
The Alafia Lighted Boat Parade will start at Williams Park at 5pm and wind up at River’s Edge.
December 3: Bradenton
Head to Longboat Pass Bridge around 6pm for the best view of the Bradenton Beach Boat Parade.
December 3: New Port Richey
At 6pm, the journey for the Cotee River Christmas Boat Parade begins from Miller’s Bayou to Sims Park.
December 3: Dunedin
Santa arrives by boat for the lighting of the Christmas Tree. The Dunedin Holiday Boat Parade can be seen at the marina and Edgewater Park starting at 5pm.
December 3: Sarasota
The Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights starts at 6:45pm. Head to Marina Jack Restaurant or Centennial Park for the best views. They’ve expanded spectator viewing area at Bayfront Park.
December 9: South Pasadena
At 6:30pm, the South Pasadena Lighted Boat Parade starts on the northeast side of Pasadena Isle near Marine Max and ends at Causeway Village and The Fountains.
December 10: Apollo Beach
Not just lighted boats – a chili cookoff too! The parade starts around 6pm. Put 1250 Apollo Beach Blvd in your GPS.
December 10: Bradenton
The Christmas on the Braden River Old Florida Holiday Boat Parade starts at Jiggs Landing at 6:30pm.
December 10: Clearwater
The parade passes by Coachman Park at about 8:30pm.
December 10: Bradenton
The Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade starts at 6:30 p.m. Head to Caddy’s Bradenton and Pier 22.
December 10: Madeira Beach
The 55th Annual Festival of Lights Illuminated Boat Parade starts at 6:45 pm. There’s a tree lighting, and boat parade kickoff party at ROC park.
December 17: Tampa
Head to the Tampa Riverwalk. The route starts on the southern tip of Davis Islands at 6pm, heads up by the Convention Center and then to the Heights. They’ll then turn around and head to Sparkman Wharf.
December 17: Treasure Island
The boat parade begins at 6:20pm. Head to the Treasure Island Causeway Bridge or John’s Pass for the best viewing.
December 17: Indian Rocks Beach
Getting underway this year at 7pm, the parade heads north from the Holiday Inn and finish off at Harbor Drive North.