Tampa’s largest lighted boat parade will happen the Saturday before Christmas along the Hillsborough River in Downtown Tampa. The parade begins at the southern tip of Davis Islands, travels through the Convention Center basin and up to the Heights where the boats will turn around and head to Sparkman Wharf where judging will occur and the parade will end.
This year's grand marshals will be Santa Claus and Frozen's Anna and Elsa.
Judges for the boat decorating contest are Big Brothers Big Sisters Tampa Bay pairs and are located at the conclusion of the parade at Sparkman Wharf.
SAVE THE DATE FOR 2025!
Saturday, December 20th, 2025
Congratulations to the winners of this year’s Holiday Boat Parade presented by Yacht StarShip and Pirate Water Taxi.
FIRST PLACE: #3 - Joey Rayl
SECOND PLACE: #52 - Christy Marsh
THIRD PLACE: #101 - Timothy Stripling
A huge thank you to all boaters who lit up the Tampa Riverwalk and Hillsborough River with your festive spirit.
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade Map
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade parking and transportation
Parking is available at multiple locations along the boat parade route including several parking garages and on-street metered parking.
GARAGES & LOTS – MORE INFORMATION
We encourage you to come early and walk the beautiful Tampa Riverwalk to other downtown destinations. You can also travel to the event using DASH, Uber, Lyft, Pirate Water Taxi, Coast Bike Share, and TECO Line Streetcar. TECO Line Streetcar is FREE and comes every 15 minutes.
Thank you sponsors!
