Long Beach Holiday Boat Parade 2025 | Complete Visitor Guide

The Long Beach Holiday Boat Parade 2025 viewing guide is your ultimate resource for planning a magical holiday outing in Southern California. Each December, the Long Beach waterfront becomes a spectacle of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and holiday spirit as boats of all sizes float through the harbor. Families, friends, and tourists flock to witness this dazzling display of creativity and community celebration.

This holiday boat parade in California 2025 has become a beloved tradition, offering visitors a unique waterfront experience that combines festive cheer with scenic views of Long Beach Harbor. Whether attending for the first time or returning as a fan, the Long Beach Holiday Boat Parade provides a memorable way to celebrate the holiday season.

For 2025, the parade is scheduled for Friday, December 12 through Sunday, December 14, with nightly festivities starting around 6:00 PM. This guide includes where to watch Long Beach Holiday Boat Parade 2025, expert Long Beach Christmas boat parade tips, and nearby attractions to make your visit unforgettable.

History and Significance

The Long Beach Holiday Boat Parade has been a cherished community tradition for decades. What began as a small gathering of boat owners has grown into a major annual event that attracts thousands of spectators. Local yacht clubs, organizations, and private boat owners contribute to elaborate displays and themed boats, making the parade a showcase of creativity and community spirit.

The parade also reflects the maritime culture of Long Beach, highlighting the harbor as a central hub for both recreation and community celebrations. Over the years, it has become one of Southern California’s most anticipated holiday events, combining visual spectacle with family-friendly entertainment.

What to Expect at the Parade

The holiday boat parade in California 2025 features a wide variety of vessels, from small sailboats to luxury yachts, each adorned with holiday lights and creative decorations. Highlights include:

Spectacular lighting displays: Thousands of LED lights illuminate the boats, reflecting on the water for a truly magical evening.

Creative themes: Traditional Christmas motifs, whimsical designs, and pop-culture-inspired decorations make each boat unique.

Music and entertainment: Many boats feature holiday tunes, enhancing the festive atmosphere and engaging visitors.

Family-friendly environment: Children and adults alike will enjoy the colorful displays, festive music, and holiday characters.

Photo opportunities: The glowing boats and water reflections provide perfect settings for holiday photos or social media content.

The Long Beach Holiday Boat Parade is not just a visual spectacle; it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and holiday spirit.

Dates and Times

Event Dates: Friday, December 12 – Sunday, December 14, 2025

Parade Duration: Approximately 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM nightly

Arrive early to secure prime viewing locations, especially on weekends when crowds are larger.

Where to Watch the Parade

Wondering where to watch Long Beach Holiday Boat Parade 2025? Some of the best public viewing spots include:

Shoreline Village: Central waterfront location with shops, restaurants, and wide viewing areas. Ideal for families and photographers.

Rainbow Harbor: Offers scenic waterfront views with convenient access to nearby amenities.

The Pike Outlets: Combines shopping, dining, and parade viewing in one location.

From the Water: Private or rental boats provide a unique perspective, allowing visitors to view the parade up close from the harbor.

Insider Tips:

Position yourself near the harbor entrance for uninterrupted views.

Bring folding chairs or blankets for comfort, especially for children and older adults.

Use rideshare or public transportation to avoid limited parking near popular areas.

Long Beach Christmas Boat Parade Tips

Use these expert Long Beach Christmas boat parade tips for a smooth and enjoyable experience:

Arrive Early: Top spots fill quickly, so plan to arrive 60–90 minutes before the parade starts.

Dress in Layers: Coastal evenings can be chilly; jackets and blankets are recommended.

Bring Essentials: Snacks, water, and cameras enhance the experience.

Parking and Transportation: Limited parking is available at Shoreline Village and Rainbow Harbor. Rideshare or public transport is recommended.

Combine with Dining and Shopping: Take advantage of waterfront restaurants and shops for a complete evening.

Accessibility: Public viewing areas are generally wheelchair-friendly, and strollers are welcome along wide walkways.

Nearby Attractions and Dining

Enhance your Long Beach parade visit with nearby attractions:

Shoreline Village Restaurants: Casual dining and seafood with waterfront views make for a festive meal before or after the parade.

The Pike Outlets: Shop for holiday gifts and enjoy dining options along the harbor.

Aquarium of the Pacific: Perfect for families visiting during the day and pairing with the evening parade.

Harbor Cruises: Private or chartered boats offer unique viewing perspectives of the parade.

Visiting these locations allows you to make the parade a full holiday outing rather than just a single event.

Publicminute.com Rating

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)

This rating reflects the parade’s creativity, accessibility, family-friendly environment, and overall visitor experience. Long Beach consistently delivers a festive, engaging event that’s highly recommended for all ages.

Why You Should Attend

Attending the Long Beach Holiday Boat Parade provides a variety of benefits:

Enjoy a unique waterfront holiday tradition in Southern California.

Capture stunning photos of illuminated boats and festive designs.

Experience a family-friendly, community-focused event suitable for all ages.

Combine the parade with dining, shopping, and other harbor activities for a complete evening.

Celebrate the season with one of Southern California’s most anticipated holiday boat parades in California 2025.

Conclusion

The Long Beach Holiday Boat Parade 2025 is a must-see event for anyone seeking a festive, scenic, and family-friendly holiday experience. From dazzling lights to creative boat themes and waterfront views, the parade delivers a magical evening for locals and visitors alike.

With a publicminute.com rating of ★★★★☆ (4.4/5), it’s highly recommended for first-time attendees and returning fans. Plan ahead, follow these tips, and enjoy a memorable holiday celebration along the Long Beach waterfront this December 2025.