Jacksonville, Florida – The Jacksonville Light Boat Parade, in addition to the chilly weather, signals the start of the holiday season in Jacksonville, Florida. This parade has been a part of the city’s holiday events for more than 30 years and brings thousands of people to the banks of the St. Johns River for an evening of bright lights and holiday cheer.
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Jacksonville Light Boat Parade: A Tradition Illuminating the River
Held annually on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, the 2023 Light Boat Parade is set for November 25. As the clock strikes 6 p.m., an array of boats, festooned with bright, holiday-themed lights and decorations, begin their majestic journey. The parade starts at the Hyatt Regency Riverfront Hotel and snakes along both the north and south banks of the river, offering a spectacle of luminous beauty that captivates both young and old.
From its humble beginnings in 1970, the parade has evolved into an event featuring over 60 vessels. What started with a few decorated boats has blossomed into a festive flotilla, ranging from grand yachts to whimsical kayaks, each bringing its unique brand of holiday magic to the river.
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Celebration that Captivates the Community
The Light Boat Parade is more than just a visual feast; it’s a vibrant expression of Jacksonville’s community spirit. Families and friends gather along the riverbanks, wrapped in blankets, sipping hot cocoa, and basking in the glow of the holiday lights. It’s an opportunity for the community to come together, share in the joy of the season, and create lasting memories.
Each participating boat in the parade is a testament to creativity and holiday spirit. From underwater wonderlands to gingerbread house themes, the vessels are transformed into floating works of art. The “Minion” and “Puff the Magic Dragon” boats, for instance, have been crowd favorites, showcasing the imaginative spirit of the participants.
The evening’s festivities culminate in a breathtaking fireworks display, starting around 8 p.m. The city’s best fireworks show features the signature “waterfall fireworks” from the Acosta and Main Street bridges, painting the night sky with vibrant colors and dazzling patterns, much to the delight of the gathered crowds.
The event’s popularity is undeniable, attracting over 75,000 spectators annually. It’s not just a sight to behold, but an experience to be part of. Boat owners are invited to join the parade, with categories like vessels under 30′, vessels 30′ and over, sailboats, and corporate, ensuring a diverse and inclusive display.
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Optimal Viewing Spots for the Perfect Experience
Spectators can choose from several prime viewing locations. The Northbank Riverwalk, from the Riverside Arts Market to the Performing Arts Center, offers unobstructed views of the parade. The Southbank Riverwalk, stretching from Friendship Park to the Duval County School Board building, is another popular spot for families to gather and enjoy the show.
The Jacksonville Light Boat Parade is more than just an event; it’s a reflection of the city’s warmth and communal ethos. It’s a time for Jacksonville residents to come together in celebration, to enjoy the simple pleasures of shared experiences and to embrace the spirit of the holidays in a setting of unparalleled beauty.
- “It’s like Christmas came early! The lights, the music, the happy faces…it puts me in the holiday spirit instantly.” – Sarah M., local resident.
- “It’s a tradition I wouldn’t miss for the world. We bring blankets, hot cocoa, and gather with friends and family. It’s pure magic.” – John B., longtime attendee.
- “Being on a boat in the parade is an unforgettable experience. Seeing the joy on people’s faces makes it all worth it.” – Emily S., past boat participant.
The Jacksonville Light Boat Parade stands as a beacon of the holiday season in Jacksonville, offering a unique and joyful experience to all who partake. Whether as a spectator on the riverbank or a participant on the water, this event is a shining example of the festive spirit and community connection that make Jacksonville a special place during the holidays.