Events
Explore Lake Havasu City events—all year long. From world-class boat races, our signature hot-air balloon festival, concerts, parades, and community favorites, there’s an event for…
Boat Parade of Lights
Get into the holiday spirit with one of the most unique Christmas experiences in Lake Havasu: the Boat Parade of Lights!
Every year, the magical holiday spirit comes alive in Lake Havasu City with the much-anticipated Parade of Lights, a dazzling display of festivity and creativity on the water. Holiday lights are expected to adorn more than 100 boats as they glitter and glisten through the famed Bridgewater Channel under the London Bridge. Admire them in procession during the parade, and catch an early sneak peek at the boats during the Dock Glow event.
Dates and Times
When:
Parade | December 12, 2026 | 5 PM - 9 PM; parade at 6 PM
Where:
Bridgewater Channel @ London Bridge | 422 English Village, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
What is the Dock Glow?
When: December 11, 2026 | 5 PM - 9 PM
The night before the parade, head down to the Bridgewater Channel to view the incredible glowing boats and meet their captains. Every year, this event accepts donations to view the boats, which go towards supporting a local charity. As live entertainment and music cast a cheery air onto the evening and the festive lights get you in the holiday mood, consider giving back to the community.
After you admire the boats in the marina, walk through the lineup of local vendors to check off any Christmas shopping you need to get done, grab a bite to eat, and keep your eyes peeled for an appearance from Santa Claus!
What is the Boat Parade of Lights and What to Expect
When the Christmas season settles into Lake Havasu City, more than just our Christmas trees light up with holiday cheer. The Boat Parade of Lights brings these twinkling, colorful displays to the channel waters for a bright spectacle.
The event features boats decked out in Christmas lights, from simple draping to all-out decorations, on display in a parade along the channel and under London Bridge. People gather along the channel shores and London Bridge to view the holiday event and applaud the creativity of the boaters.
Local Tip: Don't skip the Dock Glow Night. The event is low-key but just as packed with holiday festivities and the chance to chat with the creative minds behind the boat designs.
Admission and Submission Information
Parade of Lights Rules
- Absolutely NO WOOD-BURNING FIRES on any of the beaches (propane fire pits are allowed at all parks).
- Dogs ARE NOT permitted on the white-sand beach, and people are encouraged to leave their pets at home.
- All children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Pick up any and all trash you have regardless of where you are viewing the parade from.
- NO mooring of boats allowed along the Bridgewater Channel beaches beginning at 4 PM the day of the parade (Beginning at 4 PM on Saturday, law enforcement will begin sweeping the channel to clear it for the parade).
Where to Watch the Parade
Parking and Transportation Information
Free parking is available at the following locations:
- English Village | 422 English Village
- Rotary Community Park | 1400 Smoketree Ave.
- London Bridge Beach | 1340 McCulloch Blvd. N
- Lake Havasu State Park | 699 London Bridge Rd.
Because of the popularity of this event, it is strongly recommended that you arrive early or that you opt for a rideshare or public transit for ease of transportation.
Visit our Transportation page for more information on shuttles, buses, and additional forms of transportation that are great alternatives and worry-free when it comes to parking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to view the Parade of Lights?
For the best holiday experience: The English Village and its many Christmas lights are a great place to fall into holiday cheer and watch the parade.
To avoid the crowds and noise: Rotary Park and Lake Havasu State Park, though both parking options for the event, offer guests more space and a break from the noise.
For unique views: Sitting along London Bridge Beach, you'll be able to watch the boats pass under the bridge and catch the lights reflecting off the underside of the bridge.
Up-close sites: Grabbing a spot at one of the Bridgewater Channel Beaches puts you right in the heart of the action with an up-close view of the decked-out boats.
Is the Lake Havasu boat parade free to watch?
Yes!
What is the weather in Lake Havasu like during the Boat Parade of Lights?
Typically, in the early weeks of December, Lake Havasu experiences highs in the mid-60s and lows in the high 40s. Since the event doesn't take place until the evening, expect cooler temperatures by the time the parade starts.
It may be best to bundle up, pack a blanket or two for you and yours, or bring a small propane-based fire pit.
Is there a checklist for boaters looking to enter the parade?
Here is our checklist for boaters entering the event:
- $100 entry fee
- Eventbrite reservation
- Google Form completion
What are some tips for attending the Lake Havasu Boat Parade of Lights with kids?
- Bring your own chairs: there can be a lot of standing at the event, and having collapsible chairs available for kids to rest their legs is a great way to avoid complaints from little ones.
- Pack warm drinks: it can be cold along the water, and bringing some hot chocolate or hot cider is a festive way to stay warm.
- Opt for the beaches: the ice rink at English Village is a lot of fun, but if you have toddlers and don't want to deal with crowds with your stroller, opt to view the parade from a nearby beach.
- Arrive early: check out the additional fun before the parade starts at 6 PM to avoid the crowds and get some of the extra energy out!
Are there wheelchair accessible viewing areas for the Lake Havasu boat parade of lights?
Both Rotary Park and Lake Havasu State Park offer handicap parking spots for those who require them. The best spot for wheelchair-accessible viewing is at English Village, as many of the other viewing options along the channel are beaches, which can prove difficult to navigate in a wheelchair.
Are dogs allowed at the event?
There are limited spaces where dogs are allowed to be during the parade. Since dogs are not allowed at the Lake Havasu State Park beaches and their presence is prohibited at Rotary Park, it may be best to leave Fido at home.
Does Lake Havasu have additional December events that bring on the wintry vibes?
Yes! Our events calendar is always filling up with the latest upcoming events, from festivals to parties to low-key gatherings. Check out our Events page for the upcoming happenings you won't want to miss this winter.
Spend the holiday season with us! We're ready to welcome you with warmer weather and a great collection of events that'll turn your holiday stay into a much-needed getaway. Use our Plan Your Escape tool to find your accommodations, build an itinerary, and experience Lake Havasu City!
