As the holiday season approaches, Central Florida transforms into a festive wonderland, and what better way to celebrate than on the water? Whether you're a local or just visiting, the region's beautiful lakes and vibrant community events provide the perfect backdrop for holiday cheer. Here’s a quick guide to some exciting holiday events happening in popular boating areas around Orlando.
1. Windermere Chain of Lakes
The picturesque Windermere Chain of Lakes is not just a beautiful boating destination but also a hub of holiday festivities. This year, the annual Windermere Boat Parade is set for December 21st at Sunset where residents decorate their boats and join in the celebration. Gather with fellow boating enthusiasts to enjoy twinkling lights reflecting off the water!
https://www.facebook.com/windermereboatparade/
2. Winter Park Chain
Just a short trip from Orlando, the Winter Park Chain of Lakes offers stunning views and holiday charm. Keep an eye out for local gatherings and boat parades throughout the season, particularly the Winter Park Boat Parade on December 7 at 5:30 PM. Enjoy leisurely cruises while admiring the decorated waterfront homes and lush landscapes that make Winter Park a magical holiday spot.
3. Lake Conway Chain
The Lake Conway Chain is a fantastic location for holiday festivities, and this year promises to be especially exciting!
- South Lake Conway Boat Parade: December 20 at 8:00 PM. Participants will gather at the designated launch area, where beautifully decorated boats will parade through the scenic waters.
- Middle Lake Conway Boat Parade: December 21 at 7:30 PM. This parade will offer another opportunity to enjoy the festive displays as boats navigate through the middle section of the lake.
- North (Little) Lake Conway Boat Parade: December 22 at 7:00 PM. This final parade in the series will showcase more festive decorations, making it a perfect way to wrap up the holiday celebrations on the water.
Make sure to find a great spot along the shores to enjoy the colorful displays and festive atmosphere. These parades promise to be a joyful experience for families and boating enthusiasts alike!
http://lakeconwayboatparade.com/
4. Clermont Chain of Lakes
For those looking for a designated viewing area, the Clermont Chain of Lakes is the place to be. This year, the Clermont Holiday Boat Parade is scheduled for December 28 at 6:00 PM, where you can find the perfect spot to watch the decorated boats glide by. Bring your family and friends, and enjoy the festivities while soaking in the beautiful lakeside scenery.
5. Cocoa Beach Boat Parade
Just a short drive from Orlando, the Cocoa Beach Boat Parade is a must-see event for boating enthusiasts and holiday lovers alike! Scheduled for December 14 at 6:00 PM, this festive parade showcases a dazzling display of boats adorned with twinkling lights and holiday decorations.
The parade begins at the Cocoa Beach Pier and travels along the Intracoastal Waterway, providing spectators with stunning views of the holiday spirit reflected on the water. Local families, businesses, and community members participate, making this a true celebration of the season.
Grab your friends and family, and head to one of the prime viewing spots along the waterfront to enjoy the show. It's a wonderful way to experience the joy of the holidays while celebrating the beauty of Cocoa Beach!
https://cocoabeachrotary.org/cocoa-beach-boat-parade/
6. Leesburg Christmas on the Water
Join in the festive fun at Leesburg's Christmas on the Water "Lighted" Holiday Boat Parade on Sunday, December 8, 2024. This annual event is a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season with family and friends.
The festivities kick off at 5:00 PM with food vendors offering delicious treats, followed by entertainment starting at 5:30 PM. At 6:00 PM, the lights will be turned on at the Venetian Gardens, creating a magical atmosphere. The highlight of the evening, the boat parade, will begin at 6:15 PM, featuring beautifully decorated boats gliding through the waters, lighting up the night with holiday cheer.
Gather along the shores to witness this enchanting parade and enjoy the vibrant community spirit that Leesburg has to offer. It's a perfect opportunity to create lasting memories while celebrating the joys of the season!
https://www.facebook.com/LeesburgChristmasOnTheWater/
7. New Smyrna Beach Boat Parade
Get ready for the festive spirit at the New Smyrna Beach Boat Parade, taking place on December 14, 2024! This beloved holiday tradition features a parade of beautifully decorated boats cruising through the picturesque waterways of New Smyrna Beach.
The parade will kick off at 6:00 PM, starting at Riverside Park in Historic Downtown NSB. From there, the boats will navigate along the North Causeway to the Riverview and then head west, parallel to Bouchelle Island, before returning to Riverside Park.
Spectators can enjoy the vibrant display of lights and decorations from various vantage points, including Riverside Drive, the Smyrna Yacht Club, Riverside Park, Anglers’ Yacht Club, NSB Boat & Ski Club, and Outriggers Tiki Bar & Grille. It's a perfect way to gather with family and friends, soak in the festive atmosphere, and celebrate the holiday season on the water!
https://www.canalstreetnsb.com/events/holiday-boat-parade/
Join the Fun!
As the holidays approach, Central Florida's waterways are filled with excitement and community spirit. Whether you're participating in a boat parade or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere from the shore, there's no shortage of joy to be found. Grab your friends and family, and make unforgettable memories on the water this holiday season!
We invite you to share your holiday boating experiences with us! Connect with Regal & Nautique on social media or stop by our showroom to chat about your favorite boating moments. Happy holidays from all of us at Regal & Nautique!
