Pensacola Beach Lighted Boat Parade 2025: Route, Viewing Spots, Parking, and Event Guide
The Pensacola Beach Lighted Boat Parade is one of the most festive and anticipated Christmas events on the Gulf Coast. Each year, brightly lit boats illuminate the Santa Rosa Sound as visitors and locals gather along the waterfront to kick off the holiday season with lights, music, fireworks, and family fun.
For 2025, the parade has been rescheduled to Friday, December 12 at 6:30 p.m., giving everyone another chance to enjoy this unforgettable coastal tradition.
This guide covers everything you need to know: the parade route, best places to watch, parking tips, where to eat, and what to expect before and after the show.
Event Overview
Date: Friday, December 12, 2025
Start Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, Santa Rosa Sound, Sabine Marina
Hosted By: Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce
More than a parade, this event turns the entire island into a holiday celebration. Families bring chairs and blankets, waterfront restaurants fill up with excited spectators, and the whole Boardwalk glows with Christmas spirit.
Best Places to Watch the Parade
Pensacola Beach Boardwalk
The most popular viewing area, offering a wide waterfront vantage point and immediate access to restaurants, drinks, and shops. Expect big crowds, especially right before the parade begins.
Little Sabine Bay
A quieter and more relaxed place to watch the boats pass by. This area is perfect for families with small children or anyone wanting a more laid-back vibe.
Waterfront Restaurants and Bars
Many restaurants offer excellent parade views, including:
• Water Pig BBQ
• Frisky Mermaid
• Papa’s Pizza
• Bamboo Willie's
Arrive early if you want seating during the parade.
Parade Route
The route is simple and scenic:
Boats depart from Sabine Marina
Travel through Santa Rosa Sound
Pass the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk
Loop through Little Sabine Bay
Return to Sabine Marina for the end of the parade
Anywhere along this shoreline offers a great view.
Fireworks + Santa Meet-and-Greet
After the final boat returns to the marina, the celebration continues:
Fireworks Show
A vibrant fireworks display lights up the Sound, visible from the Boardwalk and surrounding areas.
Meet Santa at the Quietwater Shell
Kids can visit Santa for photos and holiday fun after the parade. This tradition brings big smiles every year.
Parking Tips
Parking fills fast, so plan ahead.
Here’s what works best:
• Arrive at least one hour early
• Use the public lots near the Boardwalk
• Overflow and pier parking may be available
• Consider rideshare to avoid traffic jams
• If you want an easy exit, park slightly farther away and walk in
Traffic leaving the island will be heavy after the fireworks.
What to Bring
To make the most of the night:
• Warm layers or jackets
• Folding chairs or blankets
• Hot cocoa, snacks, or water
• Glow sticks for kids
• Camera or phone for photos
• Comfortable shoes
The temperature drops quickly on the water once the sun sets.
Where to Eat Before or After the Parade
Arrive early and grab a meal at one of these popular spots:
Casino Beach Bar & Grille
Beachside dining with the best views near the pier.
DRIFT Modern Coastal Cuisine
Upscale coastal dining for a special holiday night out.
Boardwalk Favorites
Water Pig BBQ
Frisky Mermaid
Papa’s Pizza
Bamboo Willie's
These fill quickly on parade night, so earlier seating is ideal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the event free?
Yes. The parade, fireworks, and Santa meet-and-greet are all free.
Can I bring pets?
Yes, as long as they are well-behaved and leashed. Keep in mind that fireworks may frighten some animals.
Is seating provided?
No. Bring blankets or chairs.
Will the parade be postponed again?
Updates are available through the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce Facebook page if weather becomes an issue.
More Holiday Events in Pensacola
Coming this week on Must Do Pensacola:
• Pensacola Christmas Parade 2025 Guide
• Pensacola Christmas Lights Guide
• Santa Photos in Pensacola
• Christmas Bars & Holiday Pop-Ups
• Ice Skating at the Pensacola Bay Center
