The 56th Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights

When: December 13 and December 20, 2026

2026 Theme: LIBERTY LIGHTS THE BAY – CHEERS TO 250 YEARS

Visit the JOIN THE PARADE page to register your boat to be in the parade.

The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is a time-honored holiday tradition brought to San Diego by the boating community. Continuing its long-standing San Diego tradition, the 56th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights promises to dazzle and entertain bayfront crowds during 2 evenings on December 13 and December 20, 2026. Participants in this year’s highly anticipated holiday boat parade will decorate their boats to fit this year’s theme.

The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights brings more than 100,000 San Diego residents and visitors to the shores of San Diego Bay each year. The procession of approximately 80 lavishly decorated boats has become one of the most iconic events in the region. There is no cost to view the parade.

This year, for the 8th 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 procession will start at 5:30 p.m. and will follow the predetermined parade route.

Please send questions or comments to sdparadeoflights@gmail.com.

PLEASE ARRIVE EARLY AS IT GETS CROWED AT THE TOP LOCATIONS.