<div id="c3be0912bb716eee4ca644c1dfc4ecde4"></div>The holidays are upon us and we are geographically blessed to be able to experience great weather and holiday boat parades to celebrate. So what better way to celebrate the season than with a festive holiday-themed one on the water? Our guide covers all the boat parades in Tampa Bay throughout the month of December 2024 – most of which happen this weekend!
Boat parades are just one of many free holiday events in Tampa Bay this season.
This Weekend – Last Chance!
Indian Rocks Beach Boat Parade
Saturday, December 21, 2024 from 6:00-9:00pm
Parade lineup at Holiday Inn Harbor Side. Parade will begin at the Walsingham Bridge, winding through the fingers and ending at Harbor Drive North.
Treasure Island Holiday Lighted Boat Parade and Celebration
Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 6:00pm
The parade will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m. just south of the Treasure Island Bridge. The route travels south of Paradise Island, back through the Treasure Island Causeway Bridge at 7 p.m., around the Isles of Palms and Capri, and finishes at John’s Pass at approximately 8:15 p.m.
The parade can be viewed from a spectacular vantage point and guests can participate in the events at Treasure Bay. A DJ, a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus, interactive entertainers, and food and beverage concessions will be available.
Tampa Holiday Lighted Boat Parade
Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 6:15pm
Tampa’s largest boat parade begins at the southern tip of Davis Islands, travels through the Convention Center basin and up to the Heights where the boats will turn around and head to Sparkman Wharf. Boats will be judges by pairs from Big Brothers and Big Sisters and the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners of the sailboat and motorboat competitions will each receive a trophy.
Many viewing spots along the Riverwalk between Armature Works all the way through the Sail Pavilion and over by Sparkman Wharf provide fantastic views of the parade. thetampariverwalk.com
Put on your calendar for next year…
Annual Tarpon Springs Holiday Boat Parade
Friday. December 6. 2024 at 5:00-10:00pm
Vessels will begin at Captain Jacks with anchors away at 7pm and proceed down the Anclote River and into the bayous. Public viewing areas include Sponge Docks, Whitcomb Bayou, Craig Park & Spring Bayou. Boats should arrive at Whitcomb Bayou at approximately 8 pm.
39th Annual Lighted Christmas Boat Parade
Saturday, December 14, 2024, 6:00pm
Begins at Gulfport Municipal Marina
See the parade from Osgood Point, Gulfport Municipal Marina, Williams Pier, Gulfport Beach and Casino, Town Shores, Pasadena Yacht & Country Club, Pasadena Golf Club Estates and Isla del Sol. Routes are subject to change.
Clearwater Yacht Club Annual Holiday Boat Parade
Saturday, December 14, 2024, 6:00pm
The annual Clearwater Yacht Club Holiday Boat Parade can be seen from waterfront restaurants and hotels. The parade launches just north of the Mandalay channel bridge, following its traditional route heading north, and boats will be judged as they pass by the Clearwater Yacht Club. Cash, trophies, and prizes will be awarded for several categories, including a grand prize.
58TH ANNUAL MADEIRA BEACH FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS BOAT PARADE
Saturday, December 14, 2024 from 6:30pm-10:00pm
The parade begins at the American Legion Post 273 at 6:30pm, travels all the finger canals through the city, and ends at John’s Pass. Ending at approx 9:45/10pm. For more information, please contact the Marina at 727-399-2631
READ MORE: Best Holiday Light Displays
Neighborhood Weeki Wachee Boat Parade
Saturday, December 14, 5:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Boats will line up at Rogers Park at 5:15 and upstream in front of W Richard Drive. Viewing can be from the Upper Deck Cafe (you must be a patron) Rogers Park, and anywhere along the route.