It’s a “wow” moment when spectators get their first view of the fabulous bedecked boats parading their stuff at the 43nd Annual Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights and Fireworks, Friday December 13th & Saturday December 14th 6:30-8pm. Vivid and bright, the procession of decorated boats and festive décor is a spectacle to behold. Everyone is invited to kick off this year’s “SEAing is Believing” themed boat parade that pays homage to all things imaginary and magical.
Admission to the Parade of Lights is FREE
The two-day celebration includes illuminated power and sail boats as they cruise around the entire Harbor not once, but twice, kiddie carnival rides, sweet treats, warm drinks, and waterfront dining throughout Ventura Harbor Village. A fireworks display lights up the night sky and sea below both Friday & Saturday at approximately 8pm. Get up close and on the water for the spectacular display of lights with Public Cruises Parade offered by both Island Packers and Ventura Boat Rentals.
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CRUISE DURING THE PARADE OF LIGHTS
For best views of the parade, jump on a Parade of Light cruise. Public Cruises Parade are offered by both Island Packers and Ventura Boat Rentals.
Island Packers: SIGN UP FOR A CRUISE HERE
- Dates: Friday, Dec. 13 & Saturday, Dec. 14
- Departures: Friday at 6:20pm // 3 departures on Saturday at 6pm, 6:20pm, & 6:40pm
- Cost: $35 for adults, $32 for seniors (55+) and $25 per child (12 & under)
Ventura Boat Rentals: To Sign Up for a Cruise Call 805.642.7753
- Dates: Friday, Dec. 13 & Saturday, Dec.14th
- Departures: December 13 & 14, 5:30 – 7:00pm and 7:30 – 9:00pm
- Cost: $35/Credit Card or $31.50/Cash Per Person.
PARADE MAP AND ROUTE
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Join in to vote for the prestigious People’s Choice Award on the Ventura Harbor Facebook page! View all parade entries on the “2019 People’s Choice Award” album and “like” your favorites. Each like is counted as a vote on Saturday, December 14th only, and the award is presented on Sunday morning to the People’s Choice winner with a $100 cash prize and coveted bragging rights. Other awards feature Sweepstakes and Showstoppers Award for best in class.
Come early for best viewing and parking! Plus, new SEAside inspired holiday décor in the Ventura Harbor Village, and look for Santa & Mrs. Claus for a selfie or photo, and view LED light performers along the waterfront promenade.
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PARADE OF LIGHTS SCHEDULE
- 4pm to 9pm – Kids Rides & Festivities
- 5pm to 7pm – Santa & Mrs. Claus roam the Village
- 6:30pm – Boat Parade
- 8pm – Fireworks (weather pending)
Fun for all ages – the weekend also highlights “A Homemade Wonderland – An Ornament & Gift Market” at the Ventura County Potter’s Guild Gallery with extended hours both Friday and Saturday, and “Holiday Open House” at Barefoot Boutique from 2- 5 PM on Saturday, December 14. Plus an After Parade Comedy Show at Ventura Harbor Comedy Club both nights featuring Ron Kenney and Stephanie Blum.
Parking is free, but if local, consider taking a ride-share to save parking & time. Make your dining and cruise reservations now!
DINING INFO
Dinner reservations are recommended or arrive early to dine in venues throughout Ventura Harbor. Parade and fireworks are weather pending.
- Alexander’s Lounge 805.658.1212
- 805 Bar & Grilled Cheese 805.642.9463
- Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market 805.654.0546
- Baja Bay Surf & Taco 805.658.0411
- Boatyard Pub 805.850.0202
- Copa Cubana 805.642.9463
- Brophy Bros Restaurant & Clam Bar 805.639.0865
- Harbor Cove Café 805.658.1639 (near National Park Visitor Center)
- Le Petit Café & Bakery 805.642.1191
- Margarita Villa Mexican Restaurant 805.654.7906 (limited)
- The Greek Mediterranean Steak & Seafood 805.650.5350 (limited)
- The Parlor 805.658.2837
By Reservations ONLY
- Margarita Villa Mexican Restaurant 805.654.7906 (large parties)
- The Greek Mediterranean Steak & Seafood 805.650.5350 (limited) - Join us on December 13 + 14! Our patio fills up fast so make your reservation today! We have a great view of the parade. Seating starts at 5 pm, Parade starts at 6:30 pm. Reservations and a $10 deposit per person required (no refund within 7 days of the event) - Min of ten guests on patio window tables. Belly Dance Show at 6:15 pm with 2 dancers followed by greek Dance Show and later DJ Music for dancing. VIEW MENU
- Water’s Edge Restaurant 805.642.1200
The 2019 Parade of Lights is made possible by the generous sponsorship of the following: Admiral Sponsors: Four Points by Sheraton, Holiday Inn Express & Suites; Ship’s Captain Sponsor: Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market; Sweepstake’s Award Sponsor: Portside Ventura Harbor; Showstoppers Award: Channel Watch Marine/Tow Boat USA; People’s Choice Award: Island Packers; Starboard Sponsors: Ventura West Marina, Ventura Isle Marina; Stern Sponsors: Harbortown Point Marina Resort, Coastal Cone, Ventura Yacht Club, Ventura Boat Rentals, Brophy Bros. Restaurant & Clam Bar, Fratelli’s Pizza & Brew, Ventura Marina Community, The Greek Mediterranean Steak & Seafood, Ventura Harbor Boatyard, Ventura Harbor Marine Fuel, Dave’s Fuel Dock, Cumulus Broadcasting, Ventura Breeze, VC Reporter, and Valley Scene Magazine, RP Barricade and Santa Clarita Signal.
For a full listing of Holiday Happenings at Ventura Harbor Village visit https://www.venturaharborvillage.com
**This is a sponsored post, Ventura Harbor Village is a Macaroni Kid sponsor.**
