Explore the enchantment of holiday lights, boat parades, and festive cheer in these eight waterfront towns.
Each location offers a unique blend of history, culture, and maritime magic, creating an unforgettable holiday experience.
Newport, Rhode Island
Newport’s historic charm takes a magical turn during the holiday season. The harbor transforms into a glittering spectacle with the Illuminated Boat Parade. Each vessel, adorned with twinkling lights, sails past the shores, offering a mesmerizing view.
Meanwhile, the Gilded Age mansions, icons of Newport’s opulent past, dress up in holiday grandeur. Their ornate decorations add a touch of elegance and history to the festivities. This blend of nautical tradition and historic architecture creates a festive atmosphere unique to Newport.
Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the sights and sounds of this enchanting seaside celebration.
Annapolis, Maryland
Annapolis combines naval heritage with festive flair each holiday season. The Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade is a highlight, featuring boats adorned with whimsical decorations. These floating displays draw crowds from across the Chesapeake Bay.
The city’s Naval Academy traditions blend with this maritime celebration, creating a spectacle that charms both locals and visitors. Annapolis’s historic streets, lined with holiday lights and decorations, offer a cozy backdrop.
Whether you’re a sailor or simply a fan of festive lights, Annapolis offers a unique holiday experience that captures the spirit of the season.
St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, shines brightly during the Nights of Lights celebration. Millions of white lights adorn the city’s historic architecture, offering a radiant display.
The Holiday Regatta of Lights adds a coastal charm to the festivities. Sailboats, decorated with glowing ornaments, parade along the bayfront, reflecting on the water.
This blend of history and holiday cheer makes St. Augustine a captivating destination. The city’s cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial buildings create a picturesque setting, perfect for holiday exploration and celebration.
Newport Beach, California
Newport Beach hosts one of the most elaborate boat parades in the country. The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade features multi-story yachts with synchronized light displays.
Waterfront homes also join in the competition, transforming the harbor into a dazzling spectacle. The parade is a festive tradition, captivating both locals and visitors with its grandeur.
This coastal city offers a vibrant holiday atmosphere, where each boat and home tries to outshine the others, creating a friendly and festive rivalry. Newport Beach becomes a holiday wonderland by the sea.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston’s Holiday Parade of Boats brings Southern charm to the sea. Boats decorated with lights and festive themes sail through the historic harbor, offering a beautiful maritime display.
The city’s waterfront parks sparkle with seasonal displays, enhancing the festive mood. Charleston’s blend of history and modern celebration creates a unique holiday experience.
Visitors can enjoy the parade from various vantage points along the waterfront, taking in the sights while enjoying the city’s rich cultural heritage. Charleston’s festive spirit is as warm as its Southern hospitality.
Alexandria, Virginia
Alexandria’s Holiday Boat Parade of Lights is a cherished tradition. Dozens of boats, festooned with lights, glide down the Potomac River, creating a captivating display.
Set against the historic backdrop of Old Town, the parade offers a picturesque holiday scene. Colonial streets lined with classic holiday décor add to the charm.
This event captures the essence of Alexandria’s festive spirit, blending history and tradition with a maritime twist. It’s a celebration that brings the community together, offering warmth and joy to all who attend.
San Diego, California
San Diego’s Parade of Lights is a vibrant showcase of maritime festivity. Hundreds of boats, from small sailboats to large commercial vessels, illuminate the bay with colorful displays.
Each year features a new theme, adding a creative twist to the event. The parade is a beloved tradition, drawing spectators to the shores of San Diego Bay.
The city’s mild winter climate makes it an ideal location for this glittering celebration, offering a delightful evening of holiday entertainment. San Diego’s festive spirit sparkles brightly along the water.
Portland, Maine
Portland’s Harbor Lights Festival is a festive highlight. It kicks off with a Parade of Lights on Casco Bay, where brightly decorated boats create a magical scene.
A unique feature is the appearance of ‘Lobster Claus,’ adding a quirky coastal twist to the celebration. The cozy atmosphere of Old Port, with its charming shops and restaurants, enhances the holiday experience.
This nautical celebration captures Portland’s spirit, offering warmth and cheer even in the chill of a Maine winter. It’s a festive tradition that delights both locals and visitors alike.