Ventura Keys holiday lights as seen during the Parade of Lights. Photo by Dan Harding
Experience the holidays seaside as Ventura Harbor presents the 41st Annual Ventura Harbor Boat Parade of Lights and Fireworks, Friday & Saturday, December 15 & 16, at 6:30 p.m. and Winter Wonderland & Holiday Marketplace on Saturday, December 16 from 1- 5 pm. Decorated boats and holiday décor kick off this year’s “When You Wish Upon A Star” themed parade, a tribute to all things Disney, as well as the lure of the sea.
The two-day celebration includes decorated power and sail boats as they cruise twice throughout the entire Harbor, the Parade of Lights carnival and rides on the Ventura Harbor Village and waterfront dining offering delicious cuisine throughout Ventura Harbor. Saturday evening, December 16, at approximately 6:30 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 Friday & Saturday at approximately 8 pm over Ventura Harbor .
Arrive mid-day on Saturday, December 16 for Ventura Harbor’s Winter Wonderland & Holiday Marketplace from 1- 5 PM at Ventura Harbor Village. Free visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus and their live reindeer, Victorian Carolers, Toy Soldier’s Band, faux snowfall, an artisan market, free craft stations for kids . Christmas 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 stores for holiday finds – Love Local – Shop Local. Plus, Harbor restaurants are overflowing with good cheer for lunch and dinner.
Parking is free in Ventura Harbor Village, overflow Village parking, 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.
Boater Applications are available by calling 477-0470 or online at VenturaHarbor.com and VenturaHarborVillage.com.
