Photo by Dan Harding
The Ventura Harbor presents the 39th Annual Ventura Harbor Boat Parade of Lights and Fireworks, Friday & Saturday, December 18 & 19, at 6:30 pm and Winter Wonderland & Holiday Marketplace on Saturday, December 19 from 1- 5 pm. Decorated boats and holiday décor kick off this year’s “Surf, Sand & Santa- Celebrating 150 Years of Ventura” themed parade, in recognition of the City of Ventura’s 150th Anniversary.
The two-day celebration includes the Parade of Lights, Carnival & Rides on the Ventura Harbor Village Main Lawn, visits by Santa & Mrs. Claus for last minutes gift requests at the Carousel Stage and delicious waterfront dining throughout Ventura Harbor. Saturday evening, December 19, at 6:45 pm, watch for Santa and his sleigh fly across the sky above the Harbor, kicking off the boat parade, courtesy of Aspen Helicopters. A fireworks display lights up the night each evening at approximately 8 pm.
At the Harbor’s Winter Wonderland & Holiday Marketplace enjoy free visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus and their live reindeer ,Victorian Carolers, Toy Soldier Band, faux snowfall, craft stations,holiday characters, and boutique shopping make Winter Wonderland a fun traditional holiday experience for all ages! Enjoy festive fun at this free event and explore the sixteen seaside boutiques and art galleries for holiday finds. Plus, Harbor restaurants are overflowing with good cheer for lunch and dinner.
At the Parade of Lights stop by the Ventura Harbor Village booth to get a pair of 3D glasses to watch the fireworks display (while supplies last). Get up close and on the water for the spectacular display of lights with public cruises offered by Island Packers (805-642-1393).
Admission to the Parade of Lights on Friday, December 18 and Saturday, December 19, along with Winter Wonderland & Holiday Marketplace on December 19, is free. Parking is free in Ventura Harbor Village, along Spinnaker Drive, and in the Ventura Harbor beach lots. Ventura Downtown – Harbor Trolley will be running with complimentary rides from 11 am – 11 pm from downtown, hotels, and Pierpont neighborhood. Arrive early for best parking and shopping throughout the Ventura Harbor Village. Dinner reservations are recommended or arrive early to dine in venues throughout Ventura Harbor.
Boater Applications are available by calling 477-0470 or online at VenturaHarbor.com and VenturaHarborVillage.com. No charge to enter a decorated watercraft and includes an 8 x10 keepsake photo, awards, prizes, and Boaters Brunch courtesy of The Greek Mediterranean Steak & Seafood!
Visit www.VenturaHarbor.com or call 477-0470 for more information or get updates on Ventura Harbor Facebook and Twitter #Venturaharbor.
