Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade 2024 in California

The Marina Del Rey Boat Parade is annually held in North America’s largest man-made small-craft harbor. The festival begins with the Snow Wonder, during this time, everyone can enjoy various entertainment and crafts, snow, sledding, and so much more. A great fireworks show kicks off the main event—the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade. Dozens of beautifully decorated and illuminated boats float through the harbor. The boat parade is undoubtedly a favorite community event that kicks off the Christmas festivities and holiday illumination in Marina del Rey.

Parade Entertainment Program & Fireworks

Each season features a new theme for the parade and, thus, new spectacular decorations. The participants compete for the best prizes in several categories such as best theme, best animation, best band, best lights, best live band, best spirit, and more. Before the parade, visitors can enjoy a fun day out in the Burton Chace Community Park, where they can taste some delicious treats, dance to groovy music, and admire the stunning vistas of the harbor.

Later in the day, festivities continue with a mesmerizing fireworks spectacular, splashing the sky with a myriad of vibrant colors and reflecting in the waters of Marina del Rey. The fireworks show lasts approximately 5 minutes and is then followed by the main even, the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade.

Christmas Parade Route

The boats travel through the Marina del Ray Harbor, going around it at least twice during the event. The fireworks, which mark the beginning of the parade, are launched on the Playa del Rey side of the route near the jetty bridge. The parade starts and finishes near Basin F. The participating boats will turn south parallel to Pacific Avenue and the jetty bridge in Playa del Rey. The northward turn will occur at the end of Basin F.

Schedule

From 10 am until 5:55 pm, both locals and guests of the city is free to enjoy the attractions at the Burton Chace Park. The fireworks show begins at 5:55 pm, followed by the parade at 6 pm, which lasts approximately two hours, up to 8 pm.

Best Spots to View the Show

About 25,000 spectators watch the parade every year, so it's important to reserve a great viewing spot beforehand. The best spots for spectators can be found at Fisherman’s Village and Burton Chace Park, both of which are equipped with announcement stands. You can also watch the parade from Aubrey E. Austin Jr. Park and from the Channel Walk near the harbor. Many people watch the dazzling event from one of the waterfront restaurants. However, make your reservation in advance because this is a very popular option. Some hotels also offer good views of the parade.