Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade to return December 5

The Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce announced the return of the Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade, which is set to take place from Salty Sam’s Marina on Saturday, December 5.

Boats will depart from the Fort Myers Beach marina beginning at 6:00 p.m.

An island tradition, the Christmas Boat Parade brings the community together for an evening of decorated boats, as they pass by through Estero Bay and Matanzas Pass in celebration of the holiday season.

The festivities begin at 5:30 PM, when participating vessels begin gathering in front of Salty Sam’s Marina off Main Street. The parade travels northwest along the shrimp docks, under the Matanzas Pass Bridge, past the Coast Guard station, through Estero Pass, and then turns back south, gliding alongside Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina, looping back toward Matanzas Pass bridge and through the harbor.

This year, there will be two loops through the back bay, offering additional opportunities to take in the spectacular display of holiday lights.

Adding to the festivities, Bayside Veterans Park, located at the base of Old San Carlos Boulevard, along with local restaurants, will feature live music and holiday entertainment, providing a festive gathering spot for families and friends to enjoy the celebration.

Spectators are encouraged to find their favorite waterfront viewing spot along the back bay to watch the decorated vessels pass by. Many Fort Myers Beach restaurants offer excellent parade views, making this the perfect opportunity to enjoy dinner, drinks, and holiday festivities while supporting local businesses. Early reservations are highly recommended.

The community is invited to participate in the excitement by voting for their favorite decorated vessel in the annual People’s Choice Award. Spectators can help select this year’s winning boat and recognize the creativity and holiday spirit of parade participants.

The cost for boat enters to enter is $40, or $75 for boats featuring a business sponsor. Boat owners interested in participating can register online at https://business.fortmyersbeach.org/eventcalendar/Details/38th-annual-fort-myers-beach-christmas-boat-parade-1835303