Rockin' Around the Harbor

What is the Lighted Boat Parade?

The Parade in an annual event at the Santa Cruz Harbor where decorated boats circle the harbor shortly after sunset (5:30pm).

When is the Event? 

The parade takes place on Saturday December 5 and starts at 5:30pm. Plan ahead and leave yourself extra time to find parking and good viewing location.  

Where To Watch?

The parade takes place in the South Harbor between Murray Street bridge and the fuel dock. Boats do not exit the harbor and generally do not travel as far as the lighthouse. While offering spectacular nighttime views of the Monterey Bay and the Santa Cruz shoreline, the lighthouse is not suitable for watching the parade. 

Viewing is available from the East Harbor launch ramp,  and from a variety of harbor paths on either side of the harbor. Due to construction, viewing may not be available from the Murray Street Bridge in 2026.

How to Get Here?

Limited pay parking is available on both the East and West sides of the harbor. Please plan to arrive early to park at the harbor. Note that Murray Street bridge construction may require alternate routes to your desired viewing location.

Walking paths follow Arana Gulch South to both the East and West side of the harbor, the East path is closed and the West path may have restricted access due to Murray Street bridge construction.