Boat parades are just one of many free holiday events in Tampa Bay this season.The holidays are getting closer and closer! We are geographically blessed to be able to experience great weather and holiday boat parades to celebrate. No event is as celebratory as a parade. So what better way to celebrate the season than with a festive holiday-themed one on the water?
Check out some of these amazing Christmas Boat Parades around Tampa! While we are still awaiting details on some parades, be sure to visit this page again closer to the holidays for all kinds of holiday cheer!
<div id="c3be0912bb716eee4ca644c1dfc4ecde4"></div>Holiday Boat Parades Around Tampa Bay
Holiday Parade at Safety Harbor
Saturday, December 6, 2025, 10 a.m.
Main Street of Safety Harbor
Beautifully decorated boats and an appearance by Santa at the end of the parade are just a few of the highlights. Further details will be released as the parade date gets closer. This parade will be held rain or shine.
Annual Tarpon Springs Holiday Boat Parade
Friday, December 12, 2025, 7 p.m.
Craig Park, Tarpon Springs, FL
Vessels will begin at the Tarpon Landing Marina and will end in Spring Bayou at 8 p.m. Trophies will be awarded to the best-decorated boats!
Annual Lighted Christmas Boat Parade
Saturday, December 13, 2025, 6 p.m.
Begins at Gulfport Municipal Marina
See the parade from the Gulfport Municipal Marina, Clam Bayou Nature Park, Osgood Point, Gulfport's Williams Pier, and Gulfport Casino before passing by the Gulfport beach.
The parade will then make it's way through the communities of Town Shores, Pelican Bay, Skimmers Point, Bayview Circle, past Kipps Colony, near the Pasadena Yacht & Country Club (note: due to the Marina, the boats can only get halfway down that canal), then along Dolphin Blvd, to the Pasadena Golf Club Estates, across to Isla del Sol.
Annual Treasure Island Holiday Lighted Boat Parade and Celebration
Saturday, December 20, 2025, time TBA
Treasure Island Waterways
Last year, spectators watched the parade from a spectacular vantage point and participated in the events at Treasure Bay. A DJ, a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus, interactive entertainers, and food/beverage concessions were available to enhance the evening.
Tampa Riverwalk Holiday Lighted Boat Parade
Saturday, December 20, 2025, 6:15 p.m.
Tampa Riverwalk
The parade begins near the lighthouse off Davis Islands and travels past Sparkman Wharf, Harbour Island, and the Tampa Convention Center. The small parade boats will continue upriver past Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and Ulele, finishing near Water Works Park and Armature Works.
Spectators can enjoy free viewing at multiple locations along the Riverwalk! Check out this year's parade map below.
Indian Rocks Beach Holiday Boat Parade
Saturday, December 20, 2025, 7 p.m.-10 p.m.
Las year the parade began at the Walsingham Bridge, winding through the fingers and ended at Harbor Drive North. Stay tuned for details about this year's celebration!
Holiday Boat Parades to be Announced for 2025
Clearwater Yacht Club Annual Holiday Boat Parade
2025 TBA
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.
Neighborhood Weeki Wachee Boat Parade
2025 TBA
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.
57th Annual Festival of Lights Boat Parade
2025 TBA
Best public viewing at ROC Park – Maderia Beach
The parade begins at the American Legion Post 273 at 6:30 p.m., travels all the finger canals through the city, and ends at John's Pass.
More Holiday and Christmas Events in Tampa Bay:
Free Holiday Events in Tampa Bay
Best Holiday Light Displays
Downtown Tampa's Winter Village
Jingle Runs and Festive Races in Tampa Bay