Christmas on the coast is a little different—and that’s the way we like it in Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches. Here, we shovel sand instead of snow and sip on tropical cocktails in lieu of cocoa. Our local holiday traditions also run as deep as the water, like the annual Palm Coast Holiday Boat Parade. For years, locals and visitors have celebrated the season with a dazzling water parade featuring vibrantly lit boats and yachts cruising down the Intracoastal. That time-honored tradition continues in 2023 with the 40^th anniversary of the boat parade.

This year’s Christmas boat parade in Palm Coast will take place on December 9 at 6 p.m. and will feature a record 91 decorated watercraft. Viewers are invited to soak up the holiday spirit by marveling at beautifully decorated vessels, their sparkling lights reflecting in the water.

The event starts at Cochise Waterway, Palm Coast’s northern cut to the Intracoastal Waterway and sails under the Hammock Dunes Toll Bridge, past the St. Joe Walkway and Waterfront Park. The boats will then turn at the gazebo in Grand Haven and return to their home port.

A new addition in 2023: Flagler County will offer a complimentary shuttle to improve parking access. Viewers can park at the Palm Coast Community Center and then take a Flagler County bus to European Village. Limited parking will still be available at European Village and Waterfront Park.

The annual Palm Coast boat parade is sponsored by the Palm Coast Yacht Club and is billed as the largest lighted boat parade in the State of Florida.  

Check out more festive things to do this Christmas in Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches.