Lighted holiday boats parading along a dark harbor basin reflecting colorful Christmas lightsFree
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Tampa Riverwalk Holiday Lighted Boat Parade

Sat, Dec 196:00 PM – 9:30 PM · Saturday before Christmas, Dec 19, 2026; 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM; Parade begins at Convention Center Basin

Tampa Riverwalk (Armature Works to Sparkman Wharf)600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602 · 0.3 mi approx. from TampaDirections

All ages; premier free family viewing along wide barrier-free riverfront promenades

FreeFree public viewing along the Tampa Riverwalk and public parks

About this adventure

Tampa's largest lighted boat parade illuminates the Hillsborough River and Downtown waterfront with over 100 decorated vessels of all sizes. From sailboats and speedboats to pirate water taxis and paddle wheelers, boats deck their hulls with animated holiday lights, glowing Santas, and holiday music. Families can gather anywhere along the 2.6-mile Riverwalk, Sparkman Wharf, or Armature Works for prime viewing. Paved riverfront walkways provide easy stroller walking, and multiple parks offer public restrooms and open lawns.

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