It’s boat parade season in Tampa Bay! Our wonderful waterfront areas offer ample opportunities for boaters to get fully decked out for the holidays to the delight of spectators. These events are for viewing, of course—just arrive early to secure a good spot. After the holidays, let’s hope we’re celebrating with another boat parade to mark bringing home another Stanley Cup and Super Bowl win.
These are listed in (rough) chronological order. We’ve put the Tampa parade at the top because we’re naturally and unapologetically biased toward OUR CITY.
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Tampa Annual Lighted Holiday Boat Parade
Date: December 21
Time: Begins at 6:15 p.m. and runs until about 8 p.m.
Route: From 1910 N Ola Avenue to 615 Channelside Dr.
The big one! Tampa’s largest annual boat parade is the Tampa Riverwalk Lighted Boat Parade. Dozens of Tampa boaters take to the Hillsborough River to celebrate the holiday season. It takes place on the Saturday before Christmas every year, and it’s the perfect backdrop to our already fantastic holiday events, including the Winter Wonder Wharf (615 Channelside Dr) and Winter Village (600 N Ashley Dr).
Clearwater Yacht Club Annual Boat Parade
Date: December 14
Time: Begins at 6 p.m.
Viewing Location: 830 S. Bayway Blvd.
After a tough fall, we could use some holiday cheer. Clearwater is ready to celebrate the season with its big annual boat parade. The parade launches just north of the Mandalay Channel Bridge, following its traditional route heading north. Boats will be judged as they pass by the Clearwater Yacht Club, with cash, trophies and prizes awarded in several categories, including a grand prize.
Support the beaches while enjoying incredible views
Madeira Beach Festival of Lights Boat Parade
Date: December 14
Time: Begins at 6:15 p.m.
Launch Location: ROC Park, located at 200 Rex Place.
The 58th annual Madeira Beach boat parade is set to be a major Pinellas County spectacle. Enjoy the view from ROC Park and shop at the Merry Market while taking in all of the magical holiday lights. They’ll also host a kickoff party on the seawall.
Apollo Beach Lighted Boat Parade
Date: December 14
Time: Begins at 6 p.m.
Launch Location: 1250 Apollo Beach Blvd.
Enjoy a big boat parade in Apollo Beach while sampling burgers and dogs from Apollo Meats, listening to Christmas carolers and participating in a big chili cook-off. That cook-off is perfectly timed with this cold front hitting the region—this Florida body wasn’t built for temperatures below 60 degrees! Prizes will also be awarded for the best-decorated boats.
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