San Diego Bay Parade of Lights

December 14 & 21, 2025, 5-8:30 p.m.  

An Out of This World Christmas is 2025 theme

Cost: Free to watch
sdparadeoflights.org

In 2025, for the 7th time, the parade will proceed to the pier at Cesar Chavez Park before making the turn to Coronado, giving spectators another area to view the parade.

The 55th Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights Route: Beginning at 5 p.m. each night, the parade starts at Shelter Island and proceeds to Harbor Island, the Embarcadero, Seaport Village, the Pier at Cesar Chavez Park, and ends at the Ferry Landing in Coronado. The parade takes about an hour to pass any given point and there are many comfortable waterfront viewpoints along the route. Viewers can watch the parade from near the announcer areas at the Maritime Museum on the Embarcadero and at Coronado Landing. As each boat passes these viewing points, the announcers offer a brief history and description of the participating vessels.

• More than 80 decorated boats signed up for the annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights last year.
• More than 100,000 people watch.
• Held annually in San Diego Harbor since 1971.
• Two hours to pass most spots.
• Multiple viewing areas along the route.
• Sponsored by Port of San Diego

Spectacularly lighted boats in the San Diego Harbor Parade of Lights is an annual tradition including a procession which takes around two hours. The best spots to get a good view are Shelter Island (at the start of the route), Harbor Island, The Embarcadero, Seaport Village and the Ferry Landing on Coronado. The Port of San Diego presents the Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights.

Mission Bay Parade of Lights

December 13, 2025, 5:30 p.m.

Mission Bay
500 Sea World Dr.
San Diego, CA 92109 
discovermissionbay.org

Route: begins at Mission Bay Beach Club, passes under the bridge at Paradise Point, passes by Catamaran Resort, Mission Bay Club, Bahia Resort, under the bridge between The Dana on Mission Bay and Paradise Point, and grand finale at SeaWorld fireworks.

100 brightly illuminated powerboats and sailboats parade along Mission Bay. The Mission Bay Parade of Lights is back and bigger than ever! This festive family fun boat parade on beautiful Mission Bay includes views of SeaWorld's spectacular fireworks. Cast your vote for the People's Choice best decorated boat. From the spectator viewing areas, you will have 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, giveaways, and even a visit from Santa!

Best viewing is from Crown Point, the east side of Vacation Island or the west side of Fiesta Island. 1215 El Carmel Place San Diego, CA 92109  Contact Info Mission Bay Yacht Club, (858) 488-0501

 Winter Wonderland & Parade Viewing Party 4-6:30 p.m. at The Dana on Mission Bay.  See: thedana.com

Mission Bay Jingle Bell Cruise

December 20, 22, 23, 24, 2025| 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. | $45 per person

Mission Bay
500 Sea World Dr.
San Diego, CA 92109 
bahiahotel.com/ events-calendar

JINGLE BELLE CRUISE Jingle all the way aboard a festive sightseeing cruise on Mission Bay featuring Santa! Step aboard to the sounds of cheerful Christmas carolers, a cash bar with seasonal treats, interactive holiday crafts for kids, and photos with Santa. A portion of the event's proceeds benefits Mama's Kitchen

Events are not guaranteed. It is your responsibility to confirm before going.