Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade
Spectators gather along the channel to watch boats adorned with festive lights and themed decorations, featuring costumed participants dancing, singing, and playing live music. The festivities include an official drone light show over the marina prior to the boat procession. Visitors at the park can also enjoy roaming carolers, food truck fare, a festive photo booth, and a kids' art corner.
What to Expect
Annual holiday boat parade and drone light show on the marina.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Marina del Rey
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Marina Del Rey Tournament of Lights
Food & Drink
Gourmet food truck fare and festive drinks are offered at the event.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday-seeking groups
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free admission.
Tips & Advice
- Grab an early seat at a Fisherman's Village restaurant like El Torito, Sapori or Whiskey Red's to watch the boats from the channel.
- Arrive before the boats to catch the 15-minute drone show, which opens the evening right before the parade starts.
- Watch from Burton Chace Park if you want music over loudspeakers and live commentary from announcers Lisa Osborn and Micky Laszlo.
- With kids, try Inlet & Park, a kid-friendly parking lot spot where you can also take walks by the beach.
- Dress warmly for an evening by the water, since the boat parade alone runs about two hours after the drone show.
Special Events & Promotions
- 2026 theme: Hollywood Under The Stars, with boats decorated to match.
- A 15-minute official drone light show over the marina just before the boat parade, subject to weather.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best spots to watch?
Burton Chace Park plays music over loudspeakers, with live commentary from announcers Lisa Osborn and Micky Laszlo. At Fisherman's Village you can stand along the channel or sit at El Torito, Sapori or Whiskey Red's. Inlet & Park is a kid-friendly parking lot spot near the beach.
What is there to do before the boats arrive?
Burton Chace Park has roaming carolers, gourmet food trucks, a photo booth and a kids art corner, all free.
Is there a drone show?
Yes. A 15-minute official drone light show starts the evening before the boat parade. It can change because of weather.
What's this year's theme?
The 2026 theme is Hollywood Under The Stars. Boaters decorate to the theme and wear costumes, dance, sing and play live music.
How long does the boat parade last?
Plan on about 2 hours of decorated boats.
More Christmas Events Near Marina del Rey
More Christmas Events near Venice
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.