Decorated yachts, kayaks, and paddleboards parade through Marina del Rey on a single Saturday evening in December — free shoreline viewing and a pre-show drone display for families.
The Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade is one of Los Angeles’s longest-running boat parades, with more than six decades of holiday tradition behind it. Held on a single Saturday evening each December, the parade opens at 5:45 p.m. with a pre-show drone display over the water and the boat procession begins at 6 p.m.
Decorated vessels of every type — motor yachts, sailboats, paddle craft, kayaks — follow a course through the marina’s main channel. Burton Chace Park, at the end of Mindanao Way (13650 Mindanao Way), is the central viewing area and hosts family-friendly pre-parade entertainment.
Fisherman’s Village offers a second favorite vantage point with food, restrooms, and waterfront walkways.
Yes — watching from Burton Chace Park, Fisherman’s Village, or any shoreline vantage point is completely free. Only marina parking is paid.
The evening kicks off with a drone show at 5:45 p.m., and the boat parade itself begins at 6 p.m. The full parade takes about two hours to complete the marina route.
Burton Chace Park at 13650 Mindanao Way is the main viewing area, with pre-parade family entertainment and a wide grass lawn fronting the parade route. Fisherman’s Village is a strong second option with food and restrooms nearby.
Marina county lots near Burton Chace Park (Lot #4 at 13500 Mindanao Way, Lot #77 at 13560 Mindanao Way) offer paid event parking. Arrive early — lots fill 60+ minutes before parade start.
Yes — the parade evening starts with an aerial drone display over the marina at 5:45 p.m., setting the stage just before the first boats appear at 6 p.m. It’s a recent addition that has become a fan favorite for kids.

Southern California’s holiday lights and festive outings are pure magic — but nothing compares to Santa Claus himself stepping through your own front door. House of Kringle brings a real-bearded, professionally trained Santa to homes and gatherings across SoCal for an intimate live visit your family will treasure for years.