Published: December 15, 2023
UPDATE: The Winterfest Boat Parade has been canceled due to inclement weather.
In its 52nd year, the Winterfest Boat Parade is a South Florida spectacle that delivers the wow factor. The holiday extravaganza includes a parade of privately-owned boats of all sizes as well as showboats and corporate mega-yachts. All are decked out with dazzling lights and holiday décor. Adding to the festivities, some feature music and entertainment, while others have celebrities onboard. This year, the parade will be led by Grand Marshals, Boyz II Men.
The boat parade takes place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 16 and begins at the Stranahan House. From there, the lively procession travels east to the New River in Fort Lauderdale, then to the Intracoastal Waterway where it continues north to Lake Santa Barbara in Pompano Beach.
The boat parade typically attracts over a million viewers who line the waterways along the 12-mile parade route. You can bring your lawn chairs and find a comfy spot along the route, or, for a fee, you can enter the designated Parade Viewing Area at Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park at 300 Las Olas Circle in Fort Lauderdale. The area incudes live music performances, activities, and a great spot to see the show. The cost of the Parade Viewing Area is $30 per adult, and $25 for those 10 years and younger.
For more information, visit http://www.winterfestparade.com.
