This fun annual tradition, where boats of all kinds are decorated with Christmas lights and ornaments to create a floating spectacle along the city’s canals, is a unique way to celebrate the holidays and enjoy the beauty of Florida’s coast.
- This fun annual tradition, where boats of all kinds are decorated with Christmas lights and ornaments to create a floating spectacle along the city’s canals, is a unique way to celebrate the holidays and enjoy the beauty of Florida’s coast.
- The judges, who will be stationed at two locations along the route, are highly qualified individuals who understand the challenge of decorating a boat, and each brings their appreciation for design, creativity, and the execution of all ideas.
- Boats are expected to form a line behind the lead boat, TowBoatUS, and operate at zero speed for the duration of the event.
- The deadline for parade toy drop-offs is Thursday, December 12.
- Thank you to our sponsors to date—we couldn’t do it without you!
- What can I expect?
- Where can I watch the parade?
- How can I participate?
- Why not join the fun?
MIATC presents the St. Lucie County Christmas Boat Parade 2024, co-hosted by the Fort Pierce Yacht Club.
Fort Pierce will shine even brighter in 2024, as the St. Lucie County Christmas Boat Parade takes place on Saturday, December 14 at 6:00 p.m. All Treasure Coast boaters and visitors are invited to join the fun of this highly anticipated annual holiday tradition.
Registration is open and free for all participants. To sign up, visit www.miatc.org/christmas-boat-parades. Participating captains must attend the Captains’ Meeting on Thursday, December 12 at 5:30 p.m. at the Fort Pierce Yacht Club, where parade details will be discussed and boat numbers will be distributed.
The judges, who will be stationed at two locations along the route, are highly qualified individuals who understand the challenge of decorating a boat, and each brings their appreciation for design, creativity, and the execution of all ideas.
NEW: This year, everyone can vote for their FAN FAVORITE in a Facebook-only voting event, and the winner will receive a prize at the awards ceremony. Voting opens on December 15 and closes on December 17. The winner of the new Fan Favorite category will be announced once voting ends.
For boaters who prefer to be spectators rather than participants, we suggest anchoring in the area north of the channel where boats will not interfere with the parade. Local officials will ask boats anchored south of the channel anywhere along the inlet/shoreline off Seaway Drive to move.
On land, the parade can be viewed from Museum Point Park and all public-access locations along Seaway Drive between the South Causeway Bridge and Jetty Park.
Boats will line up at red beacon 188 off FP City Marina; head north under the South Bridge; travel east along the channel toward Jetty Park; make a 180-degree turn off Jetty Park; travel west back along the Inlet; the parade ends when the last boat reaches Turning Basin (north of the Fort Pierce South Causeway Bridge).
Boats are expected to form a line behind the lead boat, TowBoatUS, and operate at zero speed for the duration of the event.
Boats must also complete the parade route to be eligible for all prizes. (Note: The parade route may change on the day of the event due to weather conditions. The safety of our participants is our top priority.)
The SLC Christmas Boat Parade is once again collaborating with the LeGit Center’s toy drive. Everyone can contribute by dropping off an unwrapped toy at Freedom Boat Club (Fort Pierce City Marina, 1 Avenue A, G Dock, Fort Pierce), Underwater Engineering Services, Inc. (UESI, at 3306 Enterprise Rd, Fort Pierce), or FPYC (Fridays between 7 and 9 p.m., 700 N Indian River Dr, Fort Pierce). Parade participants are asked to bring an unwrapped toy to the captains’ meeting.
The deadline for parade toy drop-offs is Thursday, December 12.
MIATC offers sponsorship packages for the three Treasure Coast parades to cover production costs, keep registration free for all participants, and support workforce preparedness initiatives. Sponsorship information can be found at www.miatc.org/christmas-boat-parades. Both MIATC and FPYC are committed to supporting workforce preparedness within the marine industry.
Thank you to our sponsors to date—we couldn’t do it without you!
(List of sponsors to date in alphabetical order; check the FB event for the current sponsor list)
2nd Street Bistro
A1A Marketing & Printing
Cobb Landing
Florida Inland Navigation District
Fort Pierce City Marina
Fort Pierce Yacht Club
Freedom Boat Club of Ft. Pierce
Island Marine Services
Little Jim Bait & Tackle
Marine Industries Association of the Treasure Coast
St. Lucie County
TowBoat US Ft. Pierce Vero
Underwater Engineering Services, Inc.
The UPS Store (St. James Drive, Port St. Lucie)
For additional information and updates, visit www.miatc.org/christmas-boat-parades or follow the ‘St. Lucie County Christmas Boat Parade’ on Facebook and Instagram.
What can I expect?
Illuminated boats: From small vessels to luxury yachts, all come together to create a parade of Christmas lights on the water.
Christmas music: Festive music will be heard along the route, creating a cheerful and joyful atmosphere.
Onshore activities: In addition to the parade, onshore activities such as holiday markets, concerts, and family-friendly shows are usually organized.
Where can I watch the parade?
There are several spots along the route where you can enjoy the spectacle. Some of the most popular locations include:
South Causeway Park: Offers a wide view of the parade and is an ideal spot for families.
Fishermans Wharf: This pier is another popular place to watch the parade and enjoy the harbor view.
Chuck’s Seafood: This restaurant offers an excellent view of the parade and a delicious holiday dinner.
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South Causeway Park during the Fort Pierce Christmas Boat Parade
How can I participate?
If you have a boat, decorate it and join the parade! It’s a great way to share the holiday spirit and be part of this tradition.
Why not join the fun?
The Fort Pierce Christmas Boat Parade is an unforgettable experience that will fill you with holiday joy and spirit. Don’t miss it!
Additional tips:
Arrive early: The best spots to watch the parade fill up quickly, so arrive early to secure a good spot.
Dress warmly: Though Florida has warm weather, evenings can be chilly, so bring a jacket or coat.
Take photos: Don’t forget to capture the magical moments of the parade with your camera!
Image: Miatc
