Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks
Spectators gather along the Sausalito waterfront to view a festive procession of brightly illuminated boats. The floating parade is capped off by a celebratory fireworks show over the water. Visitors can view the spectacle from open waterfront park spaces or reserved seating areas.
See more other Christmas activities near Sausalito
Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
Free event. Premium seating may be purchased if available Premium seating is not required to enjoy the parade.
Hours
Reserved seating opens at 5:00 pm; the Lighted-Boat Parade begins at 6:00 pm; fireworks are at approximately 7:15 pm. The listed parade window is 6–7:15 pm.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Waterfront
Parking
The waterfront area and park fill up early in the afternoon; the page suggests looking at alternatives if you arrive later and cannot find a spot.
Pets
The stated exception is Sausalito Dog Park adjacent to MLK Park.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Get to Gabrielson Park early in the afternoon, because the waterfront and park fill up early and later arrivals may need another viewing spot.
- If you want to eat with a view of the parade, reserve a waterfront restaurant table well ahead, since those reservations book up fast.
- Bring rain gear and dress for the weather, because the parade goes ahead rain or shine and you'll be outside on the waterfront.
- Take the Golden Gate Ferry, Golden Gate Transit or Lyft instead of driving, since the waterfront area fills up early on parade day.
- Walk the waterfront before the parade to see the boats in the marina and catch some of the decorations going up early.
Special Events & Promotions
- Premium reserved seating can be bought for an extra fee while it lasts. You don't need it to watch the parade.
- The Captain's After Party at The Spinnaker follows the parade, with earlier entry for VIP ticket holders.
- Sunday, December 13: the Jingle Bell 5K, Kid's Reindeer Dash and Jingle Paws.
- Sunday, December 13: brunch at The Spinnaker, reservations required.
Links & Contact
Run by Winterfest Sausalito
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 is the best place to watch the parade?
Gabrielson Park. The waterfront and park fill up early in the afternoon, so have a backup spot in mind if you're arriving later.
What if it rains?
The parade goes ahead rain or shine.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs can't run loose in city parks or public spaces. The only exception is the Sausalito Dog Park next to MLK Park.
Can I get there without driving?
Yes. Golden Gate Ferry, Golden Gate Transit and Lyft all serve Sausalito.
How do I enter my boat in the parade?
Registration for the 2026 Lighted Boat Parade is open. Submit an application through the Winterfest Sausalito site.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
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.