If you want to do something new for Christmas this year, check out these holiday boat parades! Decked out with Christmas lights and decorations, you can either join in these parades or cheer on from the shoreline. After all, this is one way to join in the season's cheer when you watch the waterfront blazing with Christmas lights. 

Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade

Dec. 17-21, 6:30–9 pm

One of Southern California's and Orange County's most festival annual events is also one of its oldest holiday traditions, going strong for 106 years this Christmas.

Boats of all shapes and sizes, from yachts to kayaks, will leave Bay Island and circle past the bayside homes and businesses—decked out to throw back holiday light themselves for a gorgeous view both ways. Music and lighted decorations spread cheer along the 14 mile loop. Some boat owners have spent over $50,000 to light up the night and others include animated Christmas scenes and costumed carolers. The final night of the parade often closes with a fireworks show. The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade has been hailed by the New York Times as “one of the top ten holiday happenings in the nation.” A map with approximate route and more info can be found here. 

Port Canaveral Christmas Boat Parade

December 19th, 8–9 pm

Join beautiful Port Canaveral for their annual Christmas Parade! Beginning at the locks and continuing past all of the restaurants to Jetty Park and back, beautiful lights await to be seen. Cash prizes for each size class are split into 30-foot and under and 31-foot and over. For more information go to their website or call Shawn at 321-403-5769.

Titusville Holiday Boat Parade

December 15–23, times vary

These holiday cruises will leave you feeling alive with the season and pampered from holiday stress to boot. A Pacific Northwest tradition, these cruises are on the Schooner Mallory Todd, lavishly furnished with rubbed mahogany, etched brass, antique stained glass, and artifacts from world cruising. The Mallory Todd joins in the parade of decorated Christmas ships touring Lake Union and Lake Washington, with top local choirs coloring the air from the Royal Argosy and beautifully decorated boats touring alongside. The parade fleet passes Seattle’s famous houseboats that are also lavishly decorated for the season. Reserve seats by calling 206-381-6919 or emailing info@sailseattle.com. For more information, visit their webpage here.