Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is one of America's oldest and most spectacular holiday traditions, dating back to 1908 when a man named John Scarpa decorated his small boat with Chinese lanterns and invited friends to follow him through the harbor. Today, the five-night parade features hundreds of decorated boats ranging from small dinghies to massive yachts, all illuminated with elaborate light displays and holiday themes. Spectators line the harbor shores, pack waterfront restaurants, and charter boats to watch from the water. The parade route passes through the main harbor channels, providing excellent viewing from Balboa Island, the Peninsula, and the Lido Isle bridge.
Event Details
Dates
Thursday, December 17, 2026
through Monday, December 21, 2026
Location
Newport Harbor
Newport Harbor, Newport Beach, CA
Frequency
Annual event
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