Winterfest Boat Parade 2026
Parade Overview
The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade is billed as “The Best Show on H2O.” The 2025 edition (the 54th Annual) ran on December 13, 2025, traveling 12 miles from the historic Stranahan House along the New River to the Intracoastal Waterway and onward to Lake Santa Barbara in Pompano Beach. The spectacle lasts about 2½ hours and features private boats, giant showboats, and corporate megayachts decked with hundreds of thousands of lights, music, celebrity guests, beauty queens, and live entertainment. Over one million spectators are expected each year.
Key Exhibits & Categories
- Grand Marshals & Celebrities: 2025 Grand Marshals were artist Romero Britto and singer Montell Jordan; celebrity participants included Miss Florida USA Lou Schieffelin and Miss Florida Teen USA 2025 Keira Morehead.
- Contests & Awards: People’s Choice Award, Festive Pet Costume Contest, Winterfest Decorating Contest, Winterfest Foundation Student Art Contest.
- Special Events: Launch Party, Disco Dock Party, Family Fun Day, Black‑Tie Ball, Grand Marshal Reception, VIP Viewing Party.
- Community Activities: Storytime with Santa, Holiday Happy Hours (monthly), “Christmas In July” celebration.
- Merchandise & Sponsorship: Branded apparel, boat‑entry merchandise, sponsorship packages, partnership opportunities.
Ticket & Participation Options
- Parade Viewing Area tickets (general admission)
- VIP Viewing Party tickets
- Boat entry fee – starting at $30 per vessel
- Private‑boat package – $35 for a spot in the parade
Category Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Parade Date (2025) | December 13, 2025 – 5:30 PM (pre‑show) / 6:00 PM start |
| Route | Stranahan House → New River → Intracoastal Waterway → Lake Santa Barbara (≈12 mi) |
| Boat Entry Fee | From $30 (private boat package $35) |
| Ticket Types | General Viewing, VIP Viewing Party, Event‑specific tickets (e.g., Black‑Tie Ball) |
| Major Contests | People’s Choice, Pet Costume, Decorating, Student Art |
| Sponsorship | Available – includes branding, media exposure, partnership tiers |
How to Get Involved
Volunteers, interns, and donors are welcomed through the Winterfest Foundation. Contact information, FAQ, and application forms are available on the official website. All participants consent to photography and media use for promotional purposes.
Register for entry or booths
Venue Map and Hotels Around
Fort Lauderdale - Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, Florida, USA