You Need to Attend the Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade This Year!
You Need to Attend the Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade This Year!
If you’re looking for the perfect place to celebrate the holiday season, look no further than Sarasota, Florida. Say goodbye to shivering and shoveling snow—instead, say hello to sand, sun, and surf! As you plan your snowbird getaway to Longboat Key or Lido Key, be sure to add the Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade to your itinerary. Below, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about this festive event. For more local insight, don’t forget to access our free Sarasota Destination Guide!
All You Need to Know About the Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade
General Parade Information
For over 30 years, the annual Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights has dazzled locals and visitors alike. This year’s parade will be held at 6 p.m. on Saturday, December 14, 2019. For the best views, we recommend setting up at Marina Jack Restaurant, Bayfront Park, Centennial Park, or City Island. You’ll love watching as each uniquely decorated “boat float” lights up Sarasota Bay to the tune of your favorite Christmas music! The parade usually lasts about an hour.
Tips for a Perfect Parade Experience
Though there’s nothing complicated about this jolly winter event, there are a few ways you can improve your viewing experience. First, be sure to get to your spot about an hour early to ensure that your view is unobstructed. Since you’ll be posted up for a while, we recommend using the restroom beforehand and bringing lawn chairs to maximize your comfort. Finally, we think that Centennial Park is the best viewing spot! There, you’ll find plenty of free parking and more room to stretch out.
More December Events in Sarasota
December is one of the best times to visit Sarasota for so many reasons. If you’re planning to spend the holiday season here with us, you’re in luck! The Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights is just one of many festive December events you’ll get to attend. Here are just a few of our other favorites:
- Gingerbread Festival (December 1-9)
- Singing Christmas Tree (December 4-11)
- Holiday Night of Lights on St. Armand’s Circle (December 6).
Relax After the Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade!
After the boat parade, come back to the comfort and luxury of a private Longboat Key or Lido Key vacation rental. You’ll love being close to everything Sarasota has to offer (like the restaurants and shops of St. Armand’s Circle) yet feeling like you’re in a private paradise. In addition to incredible Gulf-front views, your Florida Vacation Connection property features premium perks like a fully stocked kitchen, fast Wi-Fi, and heated swimming pools. Some of our properties even offer access to tennis and fitness centers! Whether you want to simply unwind or fill your itinerary this holiday season, an ideal Sarasota vacation awaits.