Christmas Ships on the Columbia River
A flotilla of festively lit vessels cruises along the river, spreading holiday cheer to spectators gathered along the shoreline. Privately owned motorboats and sailboats ranging from 14 to 65 feet feature custom-crafted, colorful light displays designed by volunteer skippers. On select evenings, the fleet unites to form a spectacular procession of lights extending nearly two miles.
What to Expect
Longest continuously operating illuminated boat parade in the United States.
Event Details
Duration
The Columbia Fleet route descriptions say the fleet is out for about two hours.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Christmas Ships, Inc.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday light enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive and scenic
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: The listed Columbia River parade sessions generally show 7:00 PM–9:00 PM; the November 27 Santa escort is 4:00 PM–5:00 PM; the December 5 Camas/Washougal event is 6:00 PM–8:30 PM; the December 12 St. Helens event is 6:00 PM–8:00 PM; and the December 13 JJ Collins event is 4:30 PM–9:00 PM. The page gives a 7:00 PM–8:00 PM listing for December 17.
- Parking: At the M. James Gleason Boat Ramp viewing location, the large parking lot provides viewing and $5 parking applies. The gate is kept open later for spectators to watch the ships assemble, approximately 6:45–7:05 PM.
Tips & Advice
- Head to the M. James Gleason Boat Ramp lot to watch the ships assemble, since the gate stays open later for spectators; parking there is paid.
- Choose one viewing spot and settle in, because the fleet is out for about two hours and its timing at any spot changes with weather, debris and river traffic.
- Dress warmly and bring layers for an evening on a December riverbank, since most viewing spots along the Columbia are outdoors.
- If you'd rather watch indoors, pick a riverside restaurant near the start of the route, such as Salty's, The Sextant Bar & Galley or The Cove.
- Check for updates close to parade time, because severe weather can cancel a parade night and that decision is made shortly before the fleet sets out.
Special Events & Promotions
- Combined Fleet Santa escort for the Vancouver Rotary Tree Lighting, from Grant Street Pier to the Vancouver Waterfront, on November 27.
- Combined Fleet parades from M. James Gleason Boat Ramp to the Vancouver Waterfront on December 3 and to North Portland Harbor on December 4.
- Combined Fleet at Camas/Washougal/Steamboat Landing Park on December 5.
- Combined Fleet from the St. Helens City Docks to Columbia City and the Washington shoreline on December 12.
- Combined Fleet from JJ Collins Memorial Park to Scappoose, the Multnomah Channel and the Willamette River on December 13.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are good spots to watch the Columbia River parade?
M. James Gleason Boat Ramp has a large parking lot with good views, and NE Marine Drive from NE 43rd to the west end of Lemon Island also works. On the Vancouver route, try Rotary Way west of I-5. Riverside restaurants along the route include Salty's, The Sextant Bar & Galley, The Cove and McMenamins on the Columbia.
How long is the fleet out on the water?
About two hours. Weather, debris in the river and commercial river traffic can all change the timing, so there are no exact times for any one viewing spot.
Which side of the river should I watch from?
It depends on the route. On the Vancouver Waterfront/Hayden Bay route, you can see the fleet from both sides of the river. On the I-205/Steamboat Landing route, the fleet stays on the Washington side.
Can the parade be cancelled?
Yes. Schedules can change for boating safety, weather or other reasons. Severe weather is the one thing that causes a cancellation, and that call is made close to parade time.
How can I join the fleet with my own boat?
Email contact@christmasships.org to sign up. New skippers must attend the New Participant Orientation on October 20. All skippers and crew attend the All Participant Orientation on November 10.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
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