What to Know
- 51st Annual Boat Parade of Lights
- Dana Point Harbor
- Dec. 11, 12, and 13, 2026
- View the boats for free from public-viewing spots around the harbor
- Book a spot on a local boat to watch the illuminated action from a closer location; Dana Wharf Sportsfishing & Whale Watching is one popular option
Christmas in July has gone bye-bye and Augtober, with its first frightful promises of fall fun, is in sunny and spooky swing.
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This isn't too surprising, of course, as some of Southern California's biggest Christmas-inspired events have to put plans in place long before December is at the door.
And riding in on a whimsical wave as we approach the final stretch of August? It's Dana Point's venerable Boat Parade of Lights, a merry, multi-night celebration that marked its half-century milestone in 2025.
The 2026 festivities will sail from Dec. 11 through 13, and finding a free spot to watch the splashy proceedings is totally possible: There are vantage points around the harbor.
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As for the new theme? That's what the parade organizers unveiled, officially, on Aug. 19: It's Harboritaville, which means, oh yes, you may spy plenty of lit-up palm trees and oversized cocktail glasses adorning the decks and bows of the participating boats.
Tinsel-strewn tropicality will be a central vibe, though every boat is free to go in its own design direction.
You can book a ticket on a boat to view the action from up-close — Dana Wharf Sportsfishing & Whale Watching has long been a local go-to — or you can choose to linger in the harbor area, which will be decorated with lights and glittery gewgaws in honor of the season.
If you do choose to go out onto the water, all to savor that delightful Dana Point dazzle from near the decorated boats, reserving your spot well in advance is highly recommended.
