Free56th Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
Through Dec 20Dec 13 – Dec 20 · 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM · Two Sundays in December: Dec 13 & Dec 20, 2026; 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM (starts Shelter Island 5:30 PM, reaches Embarcadero ~6:30 PM)
San Diego Bay (Shelter Island to Coronado Ferry Landing)1000 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 · 345.7 mi approx. from San DiegoDirections
All ages; premier free viewing along wide barrier-free bayfront promenades; stroller friendly
FreeFree public waterfront viewing all along San Diego Bay
About this adventure
One of Southern California's grandest maritime traditions brings more than 80 lavishly decorated and illuminated boats to San Diego Bay across two consecutive Sunday evenings. Vessels ranging from 20-foot sailboats to massive mega-yachts and historic tall ships glow with intricate light displays, animatronics, and holiday music as they cruise past the downtown waterfront. Families can set up blankets and folding chairs along Shelter Island, Harbor Island, the North Embarcadero, Seaport Village, or the Coronado Ferry Landing. Paved waterfront promenades provide seamless stroller access, with public restrooms and nearby dining all along the bayfront.
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