# Newport Illuminated Boat Parade & Waterfront Harbor Celebration > Event for families in the Providence–Warwick area (RI / MA). Times are Eastern Time. - When: Fri, Nov 27 · 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM - Where: Newport Harbor & Bowen's Wharf, 13 Bowen's Wharf, Newport, RI 02840 - Ages: All ages welcome (Free waterfront viewing) - Price: Free public viewing along Newport Harbor wharves and waterfront parks - Organizer: Newport Yacht Club & Discover Newport - Official page: https://www.discovernewport.org/events/annual-events/illuminated-boat-parade/ - Last checked: Sat, Nov 7 Source: Grassy Knees is a directory of real family events, places and programs for kids across major U.S. metro areas, where every listing is researched from the organizer’s own page and shows the date we last checked it. https://grassyknees.com covers 42 metro areas as of Nov 11, 2026, with more added regularly. About: https://grassyknees.com/about Freshness: listings are re-checked on a daily research run (latest check 2026-11-10), and new events are added as organizers post them. Sell-outs, weather cancellations and time changes show up on the live page first: https://grassyknees.com/providence/activities/newport-illuminated-boat-parade-and-waterfront-harbor-celebration--listing-3ce64b9a182e4c767b5fdde8 ## About Ring in the coastal holiday season on the Friday following Thanksgiving with the annual Newport Illuminated Boat Parade. A flotilla of beautifully decorated commercial fishing vessels, sailboats, classic yachts, and powerboats cruise through the calm waters of Newport Harbor, completely illuminated with radiant animated holiday displays. Families line the docks at Bowen's Wharf, Bannister's Wharf, and Perrotti Park to watch nautical Santas, glowing sea monsters, candy cane masts, and sparkling Christmas trees gliding across the water. Shoreline festivities include live maritime sea chanteys, bell-ringers, fresh hot chocolate, and fresh-baked gingerbread. Spectators can vote for their favorite vessels in categories including Best Decorated Sailboat and Most Creative Nautical Lights. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Flat wooden wharves, brick sidewalks, and paved harbor walkways easily accommodate strollers and wagons; arrive early for dockside rail spots. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Bowen's Wharf Visitor Center and Gateway Transportation Center provide warm indoor seating and public restrooms with diaper changing stations. • Age Suitability: Delightful for maritime lovers of all ages, toddlers, school kids, and visiting family members. • Sensory Tips: Ocean breezes make evenings brisk, so bundle up warmly; boat horns sound cheerful celebratory blasts at the start and conclusion of the parade. ## Similar picks in Providence - [Newport Illuminated Boat Parade](https://grassyknees.com/providence/activities/newport-illuminated-boat-parade--listing-97e655175f23bdebcf8561f3) — Fri, Nov 27 · Newport Harbor · checked Oct 30. 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