🎄 2025 Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade: History, Viewing Spots & How to Join the Fun
Celebrate a Coastal Holiday Tradition with Jarett Richards
When it comes to magical holiday traditions in Orange County, nothing shines quite like the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. This annual waterfront celebration is a beloved event for locals and visitors alike, bringing festive lights, community spirit, and world-famous coastal charm.
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 Christmas Boat Parade — from its rich history to the best places to watch, and how to make the most of it this holiday season.
📆 2025 Boat Parade Dates & Times
🎉 Event Dates:
Wednesday, December 17 – Sunday, December 21, 2025
🕔 Time:
6:30 PM to 9:00 PM nightly
🗺️ Route: The parade travels through Newport Harbor, starting near Lido Isle and passing by Balboa Island, the Peninsula, and the Marina.
📍 Route Map & Timing Details: christmasboatparade.com/parade-route
🎁 A Brief History of the Newport Beach Boat Parade
The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade began in 1908, when Italian gondolier John Scarpa and a few friends lit up their boats with Japanese lanterns for a holiday float. What started as a humble water parade has evolved into a century-old tradition recognized as one of the Top 10 Holiday Events in the U.S. by The New York Times.
Today, it features dozens of yachts, sailboats, fishing boats, and even kayaks, all extravagantly lit and themed for the holidays, drawing thousands of spectators each night.
👀 Best Places to Watch the Boat Parade
🔹 Balboa Island Boardwalk
Get a front-row view as the boats glide by just feet from the shore.
🔹 Marina Park
Located on the Peninsula, this spacious area has parking, grass areas, and great harbor views.
🔹 Newport Blvd Bridge (Nautical Mile)
Great for elevated views and a lively crowd atmosphere near restaurants and shops.
🔹 Lido Marina Village / American Legion
Hidden local favorites for relaxed views with fewer crowds.
🍽️ Want Dinner with a View?
For a luxury experience, book a table at these waterfront restaurants along the route:
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Harborside Restaurant at the Pavilion
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The Winery Newport Beach
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Bluewater Grill
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Billy’s at the Beach
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Nobu Newport Beach
Pro tip: Reserve weeks in advance — they fill up quickly for parade nights.
📸 Tips for First-Timers
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Arrive Early – Especially Friday and Saturday nights
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Use Public Transport or Rideshare – Avoid parking hassles
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Dress Warm – Ocean breeze can drop temps quickly
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Bring Low Chairs or Blankets – Some areas fill up fast
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Be Photo-Ready – These boats are Instagram gold
🔗 Helpful Resources
The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade isn’t just a local tradition — it’s a celebration of the lifestyle we enjoy here every day. If you’ve ever dreamed of living along the parade route or owning a harbor-front home, I’d love to help you explore the possibilities.
🏡 Want to Live Near the Parade Route?
Let’s find you a home where world-class holiday events like this are just steps from your door.
📞 Schedule a consultation with Jarett Richards
949-405-4455
