As the holiday season blankets the Pacific Northwest with twinkling lights and festive cheer, one event stands out for its magical maritime spirit: Christmas Ships Parade 2025 – Vancouver WA Waterfront Lights Event. Set along the Columbia River, this free, family-friendly event invites locals and visitors alike to gather at the water’s edge to watch dozens of festively decorated boats gliding past in an aquatic procession of color, light and joy.
When & Where
The parade is scheduled for select evenings from December 4 through December 17, 2025, each night from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Viewers can take in the spectacle at Waterfront Way, Vancouver, WA 98660 — the public promenade offers excellent vantage points along the riverbank. (Contact: elindemann@visitvancouverwa.com) State of Washington Tourism
Specific Dates:
December 4 (Thu): Vancouver Waterfront Park / Grant Street Pier (Combined Fleet).
December 6 (Sat): Camas / Washougal / Steamboat Landing Park (Combined Fleet).
December 8 (Mon): Vancouver Waterfront Park / The Cove Area (Columbia Fleet).
December 9 (Tue): Wintler Community Park / I-5 Bridge Area (Columbia Fleet).
December 10 (Wed): Vancouver Waterfront / Steamboat Landing (Visible from both Vancouver & Camas).
December 12 (Fri): Vancouver Waterfront Park / Grant Street Pier (Columbia Fleet).
December 17 (Wed): Vancouver Waterfront Park / Renaissance Trail (Columbia Fleet).
December 19 (Fri): Washington Shores/Wintler Park (Columbia Fleet).
A Beloved Tradition
Since 1954, the Christmas Ships Parade has been a cherished tradition in the Pacific Northwest. From the early years when just a handful of light-covered boats made the journey, to today’s fleet of dozens of illuminated vessels, the parade has evolved into a spectacular holiday highlight. State of Washington Tourism The Vancouver stop along the Columbia River offers a front-row seat to this glowing display of local community pride and seasonal joy.
What to Expect
Expect a dazzling show of creativity and whimsy. Each boat is decked out with lights, holiday scenes, and thematic decor — you may spot polar bears, elves, Santa hats, or classic white lights shimmering across the water. The rhythm of the river and the glow of the boats reflect in the night’s stillness, creating a gentle, peaceful spectacle. Bring a blanket, a hot drink, and arrive a little early for the best spots. Don’t forget to dress warmly — evening riverside winds around December can be brisk.
Best Viewing Tips
- Arrive around 6:30 p.m. to secure a good spot along the Waterfront promenade and to enjoy pre-parade ambiance.
- Bring low-back chairs or blankets — seating isn’t provided.
- Arrive from downtown Vancouver by 6 p.m. if possible, to avoid event-time parking congestion.
- Consider public transit or ride-share to simplify logistics.
- Dress in layers and bring a thermos of something warm — the riverfront cools quickly after dusk.
- Bring a camera or smartphone — twilight reflections and the illuminated scenes make for memorable photos.
Why Visit
This event offers perfect for the city’s holiday scene — restaurants offering pre-parade dinners, cozy cafés downtown, or festive flights of lights across the region. Since admission is free, it’s an inclusive outing for families, couples, or solo wanderers looking to embrace seasonal charm without spending big. For other great events visit our Things To Do Page.