Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade
Dozens of boats in all shapes and sizes decorated with thousands of colored lights cruise through the harbor for a festive holiday celebration. Spectators can watch the sparkling fleet from various waterfront vantage points, including City Dock, Ego Alley, and local bridges.
What to Expect
Dozens of illuminated boats parade through Annapolis Harbor.
Event Details
Duration
Two hours.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Eastport Yacht Club
Food & Drink
Aboard Harbor Queen, a dockside viewing party offers festive music and a cash bar.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Holiday-light and waterfront-parade fans
Vibe
Festive and bustling
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 6:00PM.
- Accessibility: Campbell Park may be closed off because of construction.
Tips & Advice
- Leave plenty of extra time to get there, because traffic in Annapolis and Eastport backs up before, during and after the parade.
- Plan your route around the Spa Creek Bridge, which closes from time to time during the evening while the boats pass through.
- Bundle up if you're watching from Spa Creek Bridge, because cold or windy nights there are especially brisk even though the view is excellent.
- Look up the Naval Academy's security rules before you go if you plan to watch from the seawall along Spa Creek.
- Pick City Dock if you want to see each boat twice, once as the fleet parades in and again as each boat heads back out.
Special Events & Promotions
- Harbor Queen viewing party at City Dock's Watermark Yacht Basin, with festive music and a cash bar.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best spots to watch?
On a still or mild night, Spa Creek Bridge lets you see the boats above and below the bridge. At City Dock you see each boat twice, as they parade in and again as they head back out. Ego Alley gives the closest look, and the Naval Academy seawall along Spa Creek has a long, clear view.
Is there a party option for watching?
Yes. Aboard the Harbor Queen at City Dock's Watermark Yacht Basin, you get parade views and a dockside party with festive music and a cash bar.
How bad is traffic?
Annapolis and Eastport get very busy, so leave plenty of time for delays before, during and after the parade. The Spa Creek Bridge also closes from time to time during the evening.
Can I enter my own boat?
Yes. Sailboats, powerboats and dinghies are all welcome. Apply through the Skippers page, where you'll also find tips and ideas.
Are there other good viewing spots besides the main ones?
Try the walkway in front of Annapolis City Marina in Eastport, or the dead-end streets that run down to the harbor or Spa Creek. These include First through Fourth Streets, Lafayette Park, Acton Cove and Burnside Street.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.