Now celebrating its 108th year, the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade begins Wednesday, December 14 at 6:15 p.m. with a dazzling fireworks display off the Newport Pier, then sets the harbor ablaze for five consecutive nights before concluding on Sunday, December 18 at 9 p.m. with a fireworks finale from the Balboa Pier.

Known as Newport Beach’s Christmas card to the world, visitors are invited to watch each evening as over 100 boats both big and small partake in this floating, 14-mile festival, from canoes and kayaks to multi-million dollar yachts boasting over $50,000 in lights and decorations.

To add to the entertainment, a different notable Grand Marshal will be presiding over the parade during all five nights. Festivities kick off on Wednesday, December 14 with Mickey Mouse from the Disneyland^® Resort. Thursday sees local U.S. Olympic athletes taking over marshaling duties, Friday brings former contestants of “The Voice”, Saturday is a tribute to hometown heroes, while Sunday brings members of the USC Trojan Marching Band to the harbor. Click here for more details and a full line up of Grand Marshals.

So where’s the best seat in the house to take in all the spirit-warming action? Viewing options abound, but we recommend reserving a dinner table at one of the many fabulous waterfront restaurants lining the parade route, or by strolling down the iconic boardwalk alongside the stunning Christmas-themed flotilla.

Of course the lights aren’t limited to the seafaring vessels alone. Decked out homes, businesses and yacht clubs — better known as The Ring of Lights — get in on the spirit as well by going all out with animated rooftop decorations that rival those of the parade.

Feel like getting even closer? No problem. Embed yourself in all the Holiday fun on a holiday cruise of the harbor during the parade! Davey’s Locker has a $20 cruise special, more details here.

With so much feel-good spirit and spectacle, it’s no wonder the New York Times has hailed the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade as “one of the top ten holiday happenings in the nation.”

So this year, save the sled and the cold for Santa and join over one million Holiday revelers in Newport Beach, where you can celebrate the Christmas season in warmth, style and comfort alongside family and friends.

Everyone is invited to share their own unique Christmas Boat Parade stories, past and present, but using #MyBoatParade on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook!

To learn more about the 108th Annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, please visit www.christmasboatparade.com. And for information on hotel packages and restaurant specials, go to www.visitnewportbeach.com.