Holiday Lighted Boat Parade
Spectators can enjoy holiday cheer as Tampa's largest lighted boat parade navigates the Hillsborough River in Downtown Tampa. Both large and small illuminated vessels cruise along the water past waterfront viewing spots. The evening brings the community together along the Riverwalk to celebrate the season.
What to Expect
Tampa’s largest lighted boat parade along the Hillsborough River.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Tampa
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Friends of the Riverwalk
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and fans of festive waterfront parades
Vibe
Festive and scenic
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 6:15 PM.
- Parking: Downtown garages and lots, including the Tampa Convention Center garage and Poe Garage, plus street parking. From Ybor City, you can also park and take the trolley.
- Accessibility: The Riverwalk is accessible for all abilities. Disabled permit holders park free for up to four hours in on-street metered spaces.
Tips & Advice
- Find a spot along the Riverwalk near Sparkman Wharf, Harbour Island or the Tampa Convention Center, where the boats cruise past.
- Park in the Tampa Convention Center garage, a nearby city lot or the Poe Garage, then walk to the river.
- From Ybor City, park in the Ybor garage and take the trolley to the Riverwalk stops at Cotanchobee, the Marriott or the Convention Center.
- With a disabled permit or plate, you can park free for up to four hours in marked on-street metered spaces without using a pay station or app.
- If you want to enter a boat or sponsor the parade, email info@thetampariverwalk.com for the 2026 sponsorship package.
Special Events & Promotions
- Charley Belcher is the 2026 Grand Marshal and helps kick off the parade.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What route do the boats take?
The parade starts near the Lighthouse off Davis Islands. Large and small boats then cruise up the Hillsborough River past Sparkman Wharf, Harbour Island and the Tampa Convention Center.
Who is this year's Grand Marshal?
Charley Belcher is the 2026 Grand Marshal and will help kick off the parade.
Where should I park?
Park downtown. Options include the Tampa Convention Center garage, several city lots, the Poe Garage and street parking. From Ybor City, you can park in the Ybor garage and take the trolley to the Riverwalk.
Is the Riverwalk accessible?
Yes, the Riverwalk is accessible for all abilities. Cars with a disabled permit or plate park free for up to four hours in marked on-street metered spaces. Mobility scooter and wheelchair rentals are available, and Cloud of Goods gives 10% off with code RIVERWALK10.
How can I take part with a boat or as a sponsor?
Boat registration and VIP ticket details are still to come. For sponsorship, see the 2026 sponsor package and email info@thetampariverwalk.com.
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