Get Out! It's the 25th Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights - Sat, Dec 6th

by Peggy Robin

Saturday, December 6, 2025

Lighted Boat Parade starts at 5:30 p.m.

Dockside festivities 2 to 8 p.m.

Old Town Alexandria Waterfront

Old Town Alexandria’s historic waterfront will shine for the 25th Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights as dozens of brightly lit boats cruise along one mile of the Potomac River shoreline. Enjoy dockside festivities in Waterfront Park including a pop-up beer garden from Port City Brewing Company, food, activities and more.

See a map of parade viewing areas and additional parade information HERE

Make a day of it—or a weekend! The Boat Parade is part of  and is the same day as the 54th Annual Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade   which starts at 11 a.m. Arrive early to enjoy both parades and enjoy local restaurants and shopping.

• 2 to 8 p.m.: Hands-on activities and food and beverage options at Waterfront Park (1 King Street) (Activities end at 5:30 p.m.)
  
• 2 to 6 p.m.: Holiday Festival at Torpedo Factory Art Center (105 N Union St)
• 3:30 p.m.: Santa arrives by fireboat as part of the Holiday Festival at Torpedo Factory Art Center (Alexandria Marina)
• 5:30 p.m.: Parade begins at the Alexandria City Marina and cruises southward (0 Cameron St.)
  • Parade start time varies by location: ~5:30 p.m. at City Marina, but earlier to north and later to south
  • Duration: 45-60 minutes
  • Note: Viewing locations north of Founders Park may see boats in staging process rather than single-file parade line.

Parade Day Status: Both parades will take place rain or shine. Stay tuned for day-of announcements.. To sign up for text alerts, text “ALXEVENTS” to 888777.

--------------------

The "Get Out" event of the week is published on the Cleveland Park Listserv and on All Life Is Local on Thursdays.