Mission Bay Boat Parade 2026 in San Diego

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Mission Bay Parade of Lights

Boatloads of Family Fun on Mission Bay

December 12, 2026 | 5:30 PM

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 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
4:00 PM – 6:30 PM
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 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM.
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.
BUY VIP TICKETS
Skip the stress and reserve on-site parking in advance to stay just steps away from the celebration.
RESERVE PARKING
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.
BOOK HERE
Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa
Parade Viewing Party
North Lawn | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
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 12 | 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.
BOOK HERE
Paradise Point Resort
Parade of Lights Viewing Area
Paradise Terrace | 5:00 PM
Join us at Paradise Point for an evening of holiday cheer as the Mission Bay Boat Parade of Lights sails by. Watch boats decked out in festive lights glide across the water as you enjoy some of the best waterfront views from Paradise Terrace. Indulge in holiday carols, hot cocoa, s'mores, kid's activities, and so much more!
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 13 through January 3 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.
MORE DETAILS HERE

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 family holiday weekend.