Holiday cheer gets a nautical twist at the Daytona Beach Boat Parade, a favorite local tradition that’s back for another year on Saturday, December 5. 

Take the whole family to watch as a festive fleet of boats passes by along the Halifax River. People line the bridges, causeways, and river shorelines in the area, and the parade culminates at the Halifax River Yacht Club. Boats will be extravagantly decked out with twinkling lights and holiday décor — a truly magical experience, completely free of charge for viewers. 

Decorated boat participating in the Daytona Beach Boat ParadeThis annual holiday event is hosted by the Halifax River Yacht Club. Best viewing spots include Caribbean Jack's, anywhere on City Island, west end of the newly opened Veteran's Memorial Bridge (also known as the Orange Avenue bridge), the north basin of the Halifax Harbor Marina, and along the riverfront on South Beach Street.

Prizes are awarded for best power, sail, sound, first entry, and vessels under 25 feet.

Check out pictures and video footage from past celebrations. But be warned: images aren’t nearly as magnificent as experiencing the lighted boats for yourself. Come soak in the spectacle and spread cheer in true Daytona Beach fashion — surrounded by water! 

And with other Florida holiday experiences, such as Nights of Lights in St. Augustine and the fun spectacle of Surfing Santas in Cocoa Beach, so close (less than an hour drive) there’s even more reason to head to Daytona Beach for the holidays.

AT A GLANCE
What: Daytona Beach Boat Parade
When: Saturday, December 5, at 6 p.m.
Where: Halifax River Yacht Club, 331 South Beach Street, Daytona Beach
Admission: FREE