112th Christmas Boat Parade & Ring of Lights

Great news - the Newport Beach Christmas Boat parade is still on for 2020! The parade is going on December 16 - Decemer 20, 2020 from 6:30pm - 9pm each night. Don't miss the "Big Boat" on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday!

The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade & Ring of Lights is a Yuletide Favorite and is one of Newport Beach's many claim to fames. This year marks the 112th year of this fantastic tradition with a long history dating all the way back to 1919 when Joseph Beek, the owner and operator of the Balboa Ferry, started the “Balboa Tournament of Lights”. Get in the holiday spirit as you enjoy the elaborate lights and decorations of the boats and listen to Christmas carolers. Book your Newport Beach vacation rental & come see the Christmas boat parade!

Parade participants will start from the east end of Lido Island following the celebrated route, with the first public viewing destination at the 10.5-acre Marina Park. The community park offers 177 parking spaces, nautical-themed playground, picnic area and sailing center, and is also the largest public viewing area along the parade route, creating an wonderful location to gather and enjoy the festivities. 

Watch the decorated boats go by from the public docks and viewing areas along Balboa Peninsula and Balboa Island, or get dinner and drinks and watch the excitement from inside a cozy bay front restaurant such as the Newport Landing Restaurant, Harborside Restaurant, and Woody’s Wharf. Another special and private viewing option is to watch the parade from the comfort of your very own Newport Beach vacation rental. Our NBVP team is here to help you find the perfect holiday rental.

Buy Your Boat Parade Tickets Here 

Read more about the Newport Beach Boat Parade History