Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
The Holiday Boat Parade of Lights is a procession of decorated boats that compete for prizes
The Holiday Boat Parade of Lights is a unique annual tradition that takes place on the Potomac River in Alexandria, Virginia. The boats come in all sizes and shapes with a variety of holiday decorations. Some have music, animated features, or are powered by hand (like canoes!). The more minimalist boats, like a sailboat with strings of crisp, white lights are just as magical as the ones with elaborate, flashing, multicolored decorations. The parade stretches for a mile and usually features around two dozen boats.
In addition to entertaining spectators on shore, the boats compete to win festive prizes like Most Holiday Cheer, Most Spirited Crew, Best Theme, and Thinking Outside the Christmas Box. The parade lasts about an hour, so dress for the weather and consider bringing a warm beverage. After the parade in Alexandria is finished, many of the boats head down the Potomac to do a similar parade in DC around 7:00 pm at the Wharf.
Earlier in the day, the Scottish Christmas Walk Parade takes place in Old Town Alexandria around 11:00 am. A few hours before the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights, Santa arrives at the marina by fireboat. The Torpedo Factory Art Center also stays open late so you can get in some holiday shopping. You can view the 2019 schedule of events on the City of Alexandria’s website.
The best viewing area for the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights is the pier at the end of Cameron Street. However, to get a good spot on the pier, adventurers need to arrive a few hours before the event. If you don’t make it in time to get a spot on the pier, you can also watch the parade from Founders Park (north of the marina), Waterfront Park (south of the marina), Shipyard Park (half a mile south of the marina), or Ford’s Landing Park (three-quarters of a mile south of the marina). Despite sometimes chilly weather, I find the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights to be a fun Christmas tradition that is not to be missed.
Like this adventure? Subscribe to the newsletter to get updates with the latest adventures on the blog, ideas for things to do in DC, and tips for exploring the District.
Address
0 Cameron Street
Metro Station
- King Street-Old Town (BL, YL)
Directions
The Alexandria Marina is about a mile from the King Street metro station.
Cost
Free
Hours
The Holiday Boat Parade is usually held on the first Saturday in December at 5:30 pm.
The 2019 parade will be held on December 7 at 5:30 pm.
Length of Adventure
1 hour
Website
https://www.visitalexandriava.com/holidays/boat-parade/
