Back for another sensational year, the 114^th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade sets sail December 14-18 beginning nightly at 6:30 p.m. One of the nation’s most spectacular displays of holiday lights, over 100 dazzling boats light up the night with more over-the-top décor than ever featuring pyrotechnics, synchronized light shows, moving displays, singers, dancers and much more. Parade-goers can view the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade from nearly 50 viewing locations along the parade’s 14-mile route around Newport Harbor. Event organizers unveil details below of the full line-up of happenings at America’s most iconic Christmas event, as well as the wide variety of viewing locations by sand and boat. 

OPENING NIGHT KICK-OFF EVENT

Bring the entire family to Marina Park (1600 W Balboa Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92663), the largest public viewing location on the parade route for the festive kick-off event on opening night (Dec. 14). The full evening of festivities includes an opening ceremony, front-row parade viewing and the second-annual Holiday Market in partnership with Creative Communal. The Holiday Market will feature over 35 local makers, food vendors, live music, entertainment, photo ops and kid activities. Full of holiday cheer, the opening night event is not to be missed, with an opportunity to shop last-minute holiday gifts, enjoy good food, the festivities and watch the parade. The Opening Night event starts at 4 p.m., the holiday market begins at 4:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.; Fireworks at 6:15 p.m.; and the parade sails by Marina Park at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free.

RING OF LIGHTS

Homes along the boat parade route participate in a decorating contest called the Ring of Lights where each home features their own extravagantly themed decorations. From lights on every façade to roof-top animated scenes and dancing Christmas trees, the Ring of Lights has become as celebrated as the boat parade itself. Visitors can view homes by walking around Newport Beach waterfront neighborhoods such as Balboa Island and Balboa Village or view by boat charter or boat rental.

FIREWORKS

The boat parade features an unforgettable firework display from the Newport Pier at 6:15 p.m. on opening night and from the Balboa Pier at 9 p.m. on closing night.

WHERE TO VIEW

There are nearly 50 viewing locations along the parade routes and options are endless — set sail on a chartered boat or tour, book a table at a waterfront restaurant or cozy up along the shore to see up to see the show-stopping boats.

DINE + WATCH

There are over a dozen restaurants throughout Newport Harbor that offer a front-row view of the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade and dozens more located near the water to dine and view. Many restaurants offer special prix-fixe menus for the boat parade. Waterfront tables fill up early, so start making your reservations today.

For a parade route and more information, visit www.christmasboatparade.com