Don't Miss the Parade of Lights
- Saturday, December 9 -
The Canyon Lake time-honored Parade of Lights holiday boat parade, sponsored by the Canyon Lake Yacht Club, is a cherished annual event set to enchant and captivate crowds. This iconic parade, now in its 41st year, attracts thousands of residents and guests to the picturesque lakefront homes and parks, offering a spectacular display of festive lights and colorful boat decorations. The event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, December 9.
Parade Route
The parade kicks off as boats line up at the Eastport launch ramp at 5 p.m. Led by the Yacht Club's iconic fire-breathing dragon, the boats set sail from East Port at 5:30 p.m., zig-zagging through the East Bay to the boat tunnel for a spectacular display of lights. Boats that can fit through the tunnel will pause at the Holiday Harbor Park docks for a 30-minute intermission (approximately 7:30 p.m.), while those unable to fit through the tunnel will exit the lake and relaunch at Holiday Harbor. Once regrouped at the docks, the parade resumes around the main lake, touring Big Bass Cove, Catfish Cove, and Happy Camp before returning to the festivities at Holiday Harbor Park.
Viewing Spots
Some of the best spots to check out the parade are Holiday Harbor Park, Indian Beach, Roadrunner Park, Diamond Point Park, and Sunset Beach. The boat parade will also stream live on the Parade of Lights Facebook page.
Festivities at Holiday Harbor Park
From 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., the Yacht Club will host festivities at Holiday Harbor Park. There will be hot dogs, chili, coffee, and hot chocolate for spectators, plus Santa will make a special appearance from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. During the parade intermission at approximately 7:30 p.m., spectators can get an up-close look at some of the decorated boats docked at Holiday Harbor.
Schedule
The Parade of Lights schedule is:
5 p.m. – Boats line up at the Eastport launch ramp.
5:30 p.m. – Parade travels through the East Bay.
6:30 p.m. – Festivities at Holiday Harbor Park start.
7 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. – Intermission, Santa, and festivities at Holiday Harbor Park.
7:30 p.m. – Parade travels around the Main Lake.
9 p.m. – Boats return to Holiday Harbor Park for continued festivities and the People’s Choice Award announcement.
10 p.m. – The event ends.