Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade
Spectators can watch illuminated boats decorated with lights and themed holiday displays cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway, led by a traveling fireworks show that culminates at the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse. Waterfront viewing areas stretch across public parks and restaurants from North Palm Beach to Jupiter. A volunteer toy fleet also navigates alongside the parade route to collect donated gifts for local children.
What to Expect
Holiday boat parade led by a traveling fireworks display.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Palm Beach County
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County (MIAPBC)
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday light-show fans
Vibe
Festive and community-minded
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free to enter.
- Hours: The parade begins at 6 p.m. and arrives in Jupiter at approximately 8 p.m.
- Parking: Boat viewers are advised to watch from Ski Beach or elsewhere between Donald Ross Road and Indiantown Road, and not to anchor in front of North Palm Beach Marina or North Palm Beach Country Club.
Tips & Advice
- Bring a new, unwrapped toy, and if you watch from a dock, wave a flashlight at any boat with an amber beacon or Toys for Tots sign.
- If you are watching by boat, anchor at Ski Beach or between Donald Ross Road and Indiantown Road, since law enforcement will move boats away from North Palm Beach Marina and Country Club.
- Head toward Jupiter if you want to see the grand finale, which takes place at the Jupiter Lighthouse at the end of the route.
- Register your boat by November 19 to get the deposit waived and an entry into the early-registration prize drawing.
- Plan to go rain or shine, and if you cannot make it to the water, watch the parade live on the WPBF app or Facebook page.
Special Events & Promotions
- Boaters who register by November 19 are entered to win prizes including PBIBS VIP passes, and their refundable deposit is waived.
- First-year boats compete for Rookie of the Year.
- The Best of Parade winner gets an extra cash prize if it's an MIAPBC Boater Member.
- Boat Parade T-shirts and ornaments are sold separately.
- The parade streams live on the WPBF app and Facebook page.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch the parade from land?
Public waterfront viewing sites run from North Palm Beach to Jupiter. They include North Palm Beach Country Club, Waterway Cafe, Bert Winters Park, Juno Park, Sawfish Bay Park, Lighthouse Park, Waterway Park, Riverwalk, Harbourside Place, Charlie and Joe's at Love Street, Square Grouper Tiki Bar, Utiki and Jetty's.
Can I watch from my own boat?
Yes. Watch from Ski Beach or anywhere between Donald Ross Road and Indiantown Road where you won't block the parade. Law enforcement will ask boats anchored in front of North Palm Beach Marina or North Palm Beach Country Club to move.
How do I donate a toy?
Bring a new, unwrapped toy. If you're on a dock, wave a flashlight at any boat with a flashing amber beacon or Toys for Tots signage. Marines and volunteers will pull up to collect it. Little Smiles drop boxes are also set up at local businesses in the weeks before and after the parade.
How do I enter my boat?
Entry is free; fill out the 2026 Boat Entry Application. Boats are judged on lights, enthusiasm and themed decor. All registered boats are entered in a cash prize drawing.
Can I watch if I can't make it to the water?
Yes. The parade streams live on the WPBF app and Facebook page.
More Christmas Events Near North Palm Beach
More Christmas Events near Palm Beach Gardens
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.