Holiday Boat Parade - Clearwater Yacht Club

Holiday Lighted Boat Parade

A Beloved Clearwater Tradition

Saturday, December 12, 2026, at 6:30 PM

A dazzling holiday tradition returns! Clearwater Yacht Club is proud to host the 52nd Annual Holiday Lighted Boat Parade on Saturday, December 12, 2026, at 6:30 PM. This spectacular procession of illuminated vessels has become a cornerstone of Clearwater’s festive season, drawing families, boaters, and visitors from across the region.

More than just a celebration of maritime spirit, the parade supports youth sailing scholarships at the Clearwater Community Sailing Center, benefiting children from the Boys & Girls Club of the Suncoast. Over the years, thousands have been raised — and with your participation and sponsorship, we aim even higher this year.

Parade Route

The parade launches just north of the Mandalay Channel Bridge, cruising through Island Estates, past Coachman Park, and along the Memorial Causeway Bridge before turning at the City Fuel Dock. The evening concludes at the judging area in front of Clearwater Yacht Club viewing party for all members, where boats will be evaluated.

Boater Registration

Participation is FREE and open to all vessels — whether you are a seasoned sailor or a first-time floater, individual or commercial. To be eligible for judging and prizes, boats must register for a number. Distinguished judges from across Clearwater and Clearwater Yacht Club will evaluate entries and award cash and prizes across multiple categories.

Boats may carry a holiday theme or choose a creative alternative. Entries will be judged on theme, color, lighting, and special effects. Above all, crews are encouraged to be safe, have fun, and bring joy to the community!

PRIZE CATEGORIES:

Powerboats 30’ & Over
Powerboats 29’ & Under
Sailboats
Overall Best in Parade

Register

boat Captain Name:

Address:

City:

Zip Code:

Phone Number:

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Boat Name:*

Make & Model:

Power:

Sail:

Length:

Draft:

VHF Radio:

I Request an Overnight at Clearwater Municipal Marina:

I am attending the Dec.11 Captain's Meeting at 6pm:

If not, who will attend the meeting representing your vessel?:

by checking this box I agree to the terms listed below:

Captain's Name:

Today's Date:

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Mandatory Captain’s Meeting

All Captains must attend the pre-parade meeting on Thursday, December 10, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Clearwater Yacht Club in the Dry Dock area. At this meeting, instructions, route maps, and boat numbers will be distributed. Attendance has grown to the extent that it must be limited to Captain and First Mate only. Refreshments will be provided, and if the Captain cannot attend, a crew member is asked to be present in their place.

Sponsorship Opportunities

If you cannot register a boat, please consider supporting through a sponsorship! Net proceeds from the parade fund scholarships for youth at the Clearwater Community Sailing Center, giving children from the Boys & Girls Clubs the chance to attend sailing camps. The more sponsors we have, the more kids we can send to camp! Sponsors receive recognition across event signage, promotional materials, and media coverage — a high-visibility opportunity to align your brand with community spirit and holiday joy!

SPONSORSHIP LEVELS:

Premium Sponsor – $2,500
Diamond – $1,200
Platinum – $750
Gold – $500
Silver – $250

For sponsorship inquiries, please email the Boat Parade Committee:

Boat Parade Committee

Member’s Only Viewing Party

CYC Members are invited to a special viewing party at the marina beginning at 6:30 PM. Watch the parade as the boats pass for judging, surrounded by festive cheer. Friends and family are welcome!

Slip Information

Limited overnight slips are available at the Clearwater Municipal Beach Marina on a first-come, first-served basis for parade participants.

For any questions or additional information about the Holiday Lighted Boat Parade, email the boat parade committee

Boat Parade Committee