Tampa’s largest lighted boat parade will take place on Saturday, December 19, 2026, lighting up the Hillsborough River in Downtown Tampa with a dazzling display of holiday cheer. The parade kicks off at 6:15 PM near Sparkman Wharf and heads through the Convention Center Basin to finish at Armature Works!
Interested in participating? View our sponsor package below and e-mail us at info@thetampariverwalk.com!
VIP Boat Parade Viewing Experience
Sparkman Wharf | 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Enjoy the Holiday Lighted Boat Parade from our exclusive VIP viewing experience at Sparkman Wharf! Guests will enjoy an evening of festive food, drinks and waterfront views while taking in one of Tampa's favorite holiday traditions.
Your VIP Ticket Includes:
Exclusive VIP access at Sparkman Wharf
Heavy appetizers and buffet dinner
Dessert
Two drink tickets per guest
Cash bar available for additional beverages
Evening Menu & Schedule
6:00 PM | COCKTAIL HOUR
Spring Rolls
Thai BBQ Meatballs
Buffalo Chicken Dip
6:30 PM | BUFFET DINNER
Splitsville Salad
Chicken Tender Bites
Fried Rice
Vegetable Lo Mein
Grilled Chicken Teriyaki
7:30 PM | DESSERT
Assorted Desserts
ALL EVENING | NAUGHTY OR NICE HOT CHOCOLATE
Stop by the bar for a festive Naughty or Nice Hot Chocolate Station, available for purchase!
Making plans to travel to Tampa for the Holidays and looking for a place to stay? We've got you covered. Take a look at some of our top picks, which will give you easy access to the Riverwalk and all of Tampa's holiday magic!
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Experience the magic of Tampa's Holiday Lighted Boat Parade just steps from your hotel! The Barrymore Hotel offers everything you need for a comfortable and convenient stay, including an outdoor swimming pool, on-site dining at Gaudin Kitchen & Bar, a 24-hour fitness center, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a convenient downtown shuttle.
* pet-friendly!* -
Spoil yourself this holiday season with a luxurious stay at JW Marriott Tampa Water Street! Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, this upscale hotel has stunning city and water views, two resort-style rooftop pools, private cabanas, a full-service Spa by JW, a 24-hour fitness center, and six on-site dining options.
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Make the most of Tampa's holiday season with a waterfront stay at Tampa Marriott Water Street! Located in the heart of downtown Tampa. Enjoy spacious rooms with stunning city and waterfront views, a rooftop pool with private cabanas, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a variety of on-site dining options, including Anchor & Brine and Lona. *pet-friendly!*
Help us bring home the title!
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade Nominated for USA TODAY 10BEST!
The Tampa Riverwalk Holiday Lighted Boat Parade has been nominated for Best Holiday Parade in the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards! Help us bring home the title by voting daily from November 2–30. Every vote counts!
