Tampa's Holiday Lighted Boat Parade is back to light up Tampa's Riverwalk this weekend
- Alastair Mac
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Tampa's Holiday Lighted Boat Parade is a spectacular procession of boats adorned with thousands of twinkling lights.
Tampa’s largest lighted boat parade will take place on Saturday, December 20, 2025, lighting up the Hillsborough River in Downtown Tampa with a dazzling display of holiday cheer.
The parade kicks off at 6:15 pm near the Lighthouse off Davis Islands, with both large and small vessels cruising past Sparkman Wharf, Harbour Island, and the Tampa Convention Center.
From there, large boats will conclude at the Convention Center, while smaller boats (under 12’ air draft) continue upriver past Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and Ulele, finishing near Water Works Park and Armature Works.
Spectators can enjoy free viewing along the Riverwalk at multiple locations, with judging at Sparkman Wharf. All registered boats are eligible for prizes.
Public viewing locations include:
Armature Works
Channel Drive
Curtis Hixon
Davis Island
Harbour Island
Sparkman Wharf
Tampa Convention Center
Water Works Park
Parking is available at multiple locations along the boat parade route including several parking garages and on-street metered parking.
The daily parking rates range from $ per hour - $2 per hour, with a maximum of $9 - $12 per day. Event rates may apply.. GARAGES & LOTS – MORE INFORMATION
You can also travel to the event using Uber, Lyft, Pirate Water Taxi, Coast Bike Share, and TECO Line Streetcar. TECO Line Streetcar is now FREE and comes every 15 minutes.
For more information on the Holiday Lighted Boat Parade:
Check out the latest entertainment news and things to do in Tampa Bay here!
Before attending any of the events listed on Gotta Go Orlando, you should contact the organizer or venue to confirm that the event is taking place as information, changes, and cancellations can occur.
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