Mission Bay Parade of Lights
Boatloads of Family Fun
on Mission Bay
December 13, 2025 | 5:30PM
This festive boat parade on beautiful Mission Bay takes place annually each December. Mission Bay Yacht Club has organized and hosted the holiday boat parade of lights for decades, now a beloved event that delights viewers of all ages with creativity and effort that goes into decorating a brilliant floating light display.
Kick off this holiday tradition with SeaWorld’s spectacular fireworks and enjoy the festive holiday boats parade on the bay from designated spectator viewing areas along the parade route. It’s a night of magic, merriment, and cherished memories for the whole family. Looking to keep the holiday fun going all weekend long? Book a stay at one of our incredible resorts on the bay and make it a truly memorable family holiday weekend.
SPECTATOR VIEWING AREAS
Mission Bay is getting festive with family fun spectator viewing areas along the parade route. Enjoy the best views of the decorated boats while you enjoy holiday themed Mission Bay hospitality, including food & beverage service, holiday music, bonfire seating, entertainment for kids, and even a visit from Santa!
Parade Route
The Dana on Mission Bay
Winter Wonderland & Parade Viewing Party
4PM – 6:30PM
Experience the magic of the holidays at The Dana on Mission Bay with a festive evening of fun, food, and sparkling bay views. The Winter Wonderland celebration sets the stage for the Mission Bay Parade of Lights, featuring lively music, and themed food and drink specials. Plus, special appearances from beloved holiday characters like Princess Elsa, Buddy the Elf, and The Grinch from 4PM – 5:30PM.
After the parade, stick around for the Falling Snow Party — a magical finale to a night of cheer!
Upgrade your evening with VIP Parade Viewing, which includes heated seating for up to four guests, four chairs, cocktail table, unlimited hot apple cider and cocoa, and a prime spot to enjoy the dazzling boat parade.
VIP SEATING TICKETS COMING SOON
Skip the stress and reserve on-site parking in advance to stay just steps away from the celebration.
Want to make a weekend of it? Book The Dana’s exclusive Parade of Lights Room Package and save 15%, with rate code PARADE plus enjoy a special treat — your choice of two hot drinks and cookies or two hot festive cocktails for extra holiday cheer while watching the parade.
Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa
Parade Viewing Party
North Lawn | 4PM – 9PM
Celebrate the season at the Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa with a festive holiday gathering on the North Lawn. Enjoy a cozy outdoor boozy hot chocolate bar featuring hot cider, mulled wine, coffee, and a selection of liqueurs. Light bites, including sandwiches, snacks, and sweet treats, will also be available. Bring your own blankets and chairs and gather with friends and family to sip, savor, and soak in the holiday spirit by the bay.
Tidal at Paradise Point Resort
Parade of Lights Dinner Experience
Saturday, December 13| Parade begins at 5:30 PM
Experience one of San Diego’s most magical holiday traditions from the best seat on the bay. Join us at Tidal for an unforgettable Parade of Lights Dinner, featuring spectacular waterfront views as illuminated boats drift across Mission Bay.
Your evening begins with a glass of champagne or a signature welcome cocktail, followed by a seasonal three-course pre-fixe menu thoughtfully curated by Chef Charlotte Guerrero.
Savor the flavors of the season, sip, and celebrate as the parade lights glide across the water.
Reservations required. $100 per person, includes service charge and tax.
SeaWorld San Diego
Want to keep the holiday fun going all weekend? Bring your family to experience the dazzling spectacles, heartwarming traditions, and joyful surprises of SeaWorld San Diego’s Christmas Celebration, running daily from November 14 through January 4 and included with park admission. More details here!
Mission Bay Beach Club
Experience holiday magic by the bay at Mission Bay Beach Club. From the Holiday Market and Santa meet-and-greet to festive drinks, sparkling décor, and live music, it’s the perfect pre-Parade destination for family fun and seasonal cheer.
- Holiday Market: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Meet Santa: 3 PM – 5 PM
- Live music: 2 PM – 5 PM (pending jazz band)
STAY THE NIGHT
Looking to keep the holiday fun going all weekend long?
Book a stay at one of our incredible resorts on the bay and make it a truly memorable holiday weekend.
THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS
We are proud to work with partners who are dedicated to the San Diego community.
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