Mount Dora Lighted Boat Christmas Parade
Spectators gather along the Mount Dora shoreline to watch a festive procession of illuminated vessels cruise across Lake Dora. Decorated boats follow behind the lead committee boat, displaying creative light arrangements based on a Florida Christmas theme. Viewers can cheer from the waterfront as both private and tour boats glide along the water.
Sat, Dec 5, 2026 All ages
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Plan Your Visit
Tickets
Boat entry fee: $25. A small processing fee applies to online card entry.
Hours
Award judging takes place at 5:30 PM; the parade proceeds after the boat judging lineup is complete, approximately 6:00 PM. From shore, the parade may or may not reach a viewer’s location at exactly 6:30 pm.
Neighborhood
Mount Dora
Location
Tips & Advice
- Come early and settle into a comfortable spot along the Mount Dora shoreline of Lake Dora, because the parade can only be seen from that side.
- Plan to stay a while, because the parade can run for an hour and the boats may reach your spot later than you expect.
- Watch for the Committee Boat with the big alligator on its side leading a string of boats, because decorated tour and private boats also cruise the shoreline.
- If you're entering a boat, line up and circle the Committee Boat clockwise during judging on Lake Beauclair so your boat is considered for an award.
- Boaters can enter online with a card for a small processing fee, or mail in the printable entry form with a check.
Special Events & Promotions
- This year's boat theme is "Florida Christmas."
- Cash awards for first, second, third and Most Creative for boats entered in the parade.
Links & Contact
Run by Rusty Anchor Mount Dora
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch from shore?
Anywhere along the Mount Dora shoreline of Lake Dora. The parade only travels on the Mount Dora side of the lake, so that's the only place to see it.
How long does the parade last?
It can easily go on for an hour. The boats move at their own safe pace, so when they pass you depends on where you're sitting.
How can I tell the parade from other boats?
Look for the Committee Boat with the big alligator on its side, followed by a string of boats. Decorated tour boats and private boats also cruise the shoreline.
How do I enter my boat?
Enter online with a card (a small processing fee applies), or print the entry form and mail it in with a check. This year's theme is "Florida Christmas." A few lights are fine, or you can go all out.
Are there awards for boats?
Yes. There are cash awards for first, second and third place and for Most Creative. To be judged, line up in Lake Beauclair and circle the Committee Boat clockwise. Winners are announced on Rusty Anchor's social media.
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We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.