Registration Now Open for Palm Coast Holiday Boat Parade

Calling all captains! Registration is now open for the 42nd Annual Holiday Boat Parade, taking place on Saturday, December 5, at 6pm along the Intracoastal Waterway from the Hammock Beach Bridge to Grand Haven.

Previous years have seen dozens of boats participate in the parade, with many opting to watch the event from Waterfront Park, which now has an additional 100 parking spaces and easier access to the waterfront for those who wish to attend. Another popular viewing location is under the Hammock Beach Bridge at the St. Joe Walkway Trailhead (across from European Village).

All boats, regardless of size, and decorated or not, are encouraged to participate. This community event is meant to be open to all in celebrating holiday spirit together. City staff have been working diligently with a focus group comprised of boaters from the community, many of which have participated in the boat parade before. Their feedback and support have been instrumental to making the 2026 event a success

“For over 40 years, the Palm Coast Boat Parade has been a staple of our community, and we are proud to continue this tradition with the support of our boaters,” said Parks and Recreation Deputy Director Brittany McDermott. “We would like to formally invite all boat captains, of boats big and small, to join us in helping to spread the holiday cheer this season by being a part of this event.”

Leading up to the event, all captains will attend a pre-parade meeting to go over logistics and address any questions or concerns participants may have. This year, all participants will receive a customized tote bag, specifically designed for this year’s event and will automatically be entered in the running for several awards to be given for the following categories:

• Best of Parade
• Most Creative
• Most Spirited Crew
• Best Theme

To sign up now for the 2026 Holiday Boat Parade, visit https://form.typeform.com/to/A8Kx24Xo

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