*Cue music*
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas
Everywhere you go
Take a look in the Newport Bay for a one-of-a-kind display
With boats and houses all aglow!

Family Fun Kicks off the 2017 Newport Beach
Christmas Boat Parade at Marina Park

A favorite local tradition, the 2017 Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade and Ring of Lights returns for its 109th year beginning Wednesday, Dec. 13 and will light up the Newport Bay each night through Sunday, Dec. 17.

With a new start location at the tip of Lido Isle leaving promptly at 6:30pm, viewers can marvel at the holiday magic from the shore at multiple locations along the way. However, for families especially, opening night at Marina Park has a little extra sparkle.

Opening Night Festivities at Marina Park

One of the most prime viewing locations can be found at the fabulous Marina Park located at 1600 W. Balboa Boulevard. Boasting a nautical-themed playground and ample “run around” area for the kids, this is the perfect viewing spot for families.

On opening night of the parade, the park will also have special activities, food vendors and entertainment. To get everyone in the holiday spirit there will be an appearance by the Los Angeles Charger Cheerleaders from 5 – 6pm and a performance by Orange County School of the Arts Performance Ambassadors, MONTAGE!.

Additionally, there will be a special appearance by the Charger Cirls; a Los Angeles Chargers football toss area; photo opportunities with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, and the beloved Chik-fil-A cows; face painters; caricature artists; festive food vendors; and more.

Marina Park will also be the perfect spot to watch the opening night fireworks show off the Balboa Pier at 6:15pm while waiting for the parade to pass by around 6:45pm.

We hope you’ve marked your (advent) calendar for this brilliant event and we’ll see you there! For complete parade details, including route map, where to dine and watch, and more, visit ChristmasBoatParade.com.

Written by Jennifer Scheumann