Tampa’s largest lighted boat parade will take place on Saturday, December 20, 2025, lighting up the Hillsborough River in Downtown Tampa with a dazzling display of holiday cheer. The parade kicks off at 6:15 PM near the Lighthouse off Davis Islands, with both large and small vessels cruising past Sparkman Wharf, Harbour Island, and the Tampa Convention Center.
From there, large boats will conclude at the Convention Center, while smaller boats (under 12’ air draft) continue upriver past Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and Ulele, finishing near Water Works Park and Armature Works.
Spectators can enjoy free viewing along the Riverwalk at multiple locations, with judging and a VIP viewing area located at Sparkman Wharf. All registered boats are eligible for prizes — so deck out your vessel and be part of Tampa’s most magical holiday tradition!
･:*❄️Winter Wonderland❄️*:｡
Saturday, December 20th, 2025
6:15 PM
Boater Registration is NOW OPEN!
Register your boat NOW at our EARLY-BIRD rate of $85.
Registration includes:
Admission for 2 to the Captain's Party
Swag Bags with an assortment of giveaways
Chance to win best-decorated boat trophy - 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place
Eligible for various raffle prizes
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade Map
VIP Tickets on sale!
Join us VIP style to watch our Holiday Lighted Boat Parade!
12/20/25
5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
$125 per person
Includes: Seating options on a private section on the Wharf at Sparkman Wharf, Splitsville Classic & Asian-Fusion Inspired Menu Food Offerings, 2 drink tickets & an awesome view of the parade where you will see all the boats, BIG and SMALL!
Parking is NOT included in ticket price.
VIP Tickets are non-refundable.
VIP Menu Includes:
Splitsville Salad, Balsamic, Thai Vinaigrette
Chicken Tenders, Korean BBQ Sauce, Ranch
Potstickers
Spring Rolls
Thai BBQ Meatballs
Wok Station: Fried Rice, Lo Mein Noodles, Chicken, Mixed Veggies
Secure Your Sponsorship Now!
For more information please email info@thetampariverwalk.com
2025 Tampa Riverwalk Holiday Lighted Boat Parade Prizes
2024 FRIENDS OF THE TAMPA RIVERWALK HOLIDAY LIGHTED BOAT PARADE WINNERS
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 - The Florida Aquarium
A huge thank you to all boaters who lit up the Tampa Riverwalk and Hillsborough River with your festive spirit.
2024 Holiday Lighted Boat Parade Photos
Thank you to our 2025 Holiday Boat Parade sponsors!
